Arcadia Ridge: A Complete Guide to Far West San Antonio's Master Planned Community

 

Arcadia Ridge has emerged as one of Far West San Antonio's most compelling master planned communities, spanning approximately 700 acres of scenic landscape where modern living meets natural preservation. With nearly 200 acres of open green space, resort style amenities, and a location convenient to both military installations and major employment corridors, the community attracts buyers seeking new construction options without sacrificing access to urban conveniences.

For those exploring homes for sale in San Antonio in rapidly growing areas west of Loop 1604, Arcadia Ridge delivers the combination of community amenities, quality builders, and Northside ISD schools that define the region's appeal. The community's position along the Potranco Road corridor provides straightforward access to Lackland AFB, Sea World, and the retail destinations that continue to transform Far West San Antonio.

This guide examines what buyers should know about Arcadia Ridge, from its amenity offerings and builder options to the schools, shopping, and employment centers that shape daily life in this growing community.

Why Does Arcadia Ridge Appeal to San Antonio Buyers?

Arcadia Ridge attracts buyers for specific reasons tied to its design, location, and lifestyle offerings.

Preserved Open Space

Unlike many master planned communities that maximize lot density, Arcadia Ridge preserves approximately 200 acres of natural open space. This commitment to green areas means:

• Scenic views throughout the community
• Natural flora and fauna preserved within residential areas
• Buffer zones between development and the surrounding landscape
• A sense of space uncommon in newer suburban communities

This balance between development and preservation appeals to buyers who value outdoor access without sacrificing modern home features.

Resort Style Amenities

The community amenity center serves as a social hub with features designed for active lifestyles:

• Pools: Lagoon style and junior Olympic size pools provide swimming options for recreation and fitness
• Sports Court: Multipurpose court for basketball, volleyball, and other activities
• Playground: Dedicated play areas for children
• Trails: Approximately 1.5 miles of interconnected walking and cycling trails along beautifully landscaped boulevards
• Gathering Spaces: Community areas designed for neighbor interaction and events

These amenities provide daily recreation opportunities without leaving the neighborhood.

Military Installation Access

Arcadia Ridge's Far West location provides convenient access to Joint Base San Antonio installations:

• Lackland AFB: The community's most accessible military installation, located along Highway 90
• Port San Antonio: Former Kelly AFB, now a major civilian industrial complex and inland port
• Camp Bullis: Accessible via Highway 90 and Loop 1604

For military families executing PCS moves or civilian contractors supporting defense missions, Arcadia Ridge offers housing options within reasonable commute distances.

Multiple Builder Options

Rather than relying on a single builder, Arcadia Ridge features homes from several respected national and regional builders:

• Meritage Homes: Energy efficient designs with 35 plus years of experience
• Perry Homes: Texas based builder since 1967 with smart home technology
• Ashton Woods: Design focused builder with over 30 years of experience
• CastleRock Communities: Luxury homes emphasizing elegance and functionality
• Empire Communities: Family owned builder with over 27 years and 28,000 homes

This variety gives buyers choices in floor plans, price points, and design aesthetics.

What Housing Options Does Arcadia Ridge Offer?

Arcadia Ridge provides new construction single family homes designed for modern living.

Home Sizes and Styles

Homes in the community range from approximately 1,600 to over 3,500 square feet, accommodating various household sizes and lifestyle needs. Common features include:

• Open concept floor plans
• High ceilings (9 to 12 feet in many designs)
• Primary suites with walk in closets and spa style bathrooms
• Covered patios and outdoor living spaces
• Energy efficient construction and systems
• Modern kitchen designs with islands and quality appliances

Price Ranges

New construction in Arcadia Ridge typically starts in the low to mid $300,000s and extends into the low $500,000s depending on builder, floor plan, and customization. Some sections offer USDA eligible properties, potentially providing financing advantages for qualified buyers.

Builder Subdivisions

The community encompasses several subdivisions developed by different builders:

• The Arbor: One of the community's residential sections
• The Heights at Arcadia Ridge: Additional residential area within the master plan

Each builder section may feature different lot sizes, home designs, and price points while sharing access to community amenities.

For buyers considering new construction, understanding the process of buying new construction in San Antonio helps navigate builder contracts and representation decisions.

Where Is Arcadia Ridge Located and What Does the Layout Look Like?

Arcadia Ridge occupies a strategic position in Far West San Antonio with excellent highway access.

Geographic Position

The community is located west of Loop 1604 off Potranco Road, placing residents in one of San Antonio's fastest growing corridors. Key location characteristics include:

• Primary Access: Potranco Road at Arcadia Path
• Highway Access: Loop 1604 and Highway 211 (Hill Country Parkway)
• US 90: Major east west corridor connecting to Lackland AFB and downtown
• Zip Code: 78245

Commute Considerations

The Far West location provides varied commute experiences depending on destination:

• Lackland AFB: Direct access via Highway 90 and Loop 1604
• Downtown San Antonio: Approximately 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic
• UTSA Main Campus: Accessible via Loop 1604
• The Medical Center: Via Loop 1604 and Highway 90

Morning and evening rush hours affect Loop 1604 traffic, though the highway's continued expansion has improved throughput in recent years.

Community Layout

The 700 acre development incorporates:

• Residential sections developed by different builders
• Centrally located amenity center
• Trail system connecting neighborhoods
• Preserved open spaces and greenbelts
• Landscaped boulevards and common areas

The planned future onsite elementary school will add educational convenience once completed.

What Schools Serve Arcadia Ridge Residents?

Arcadia Ridge falls within Northside Independent School District, Texas's fourth largest school district.

Current School Assignments

Students in Arcadia Ridge attend:

• Herbert G. Boldt Elementary School: Serves elementary aged students in the community
• Dr. Joe J. Bernal Middle School: Located at 14045 Bella Vista Place, serving middle school students
• William J. Brennan High School: Located at 2400 Cottonwood Way, serving all areas west of Loop 1604

About Brennan High School

Brennan High School opened in 2010 to serve the rapidly growing Far West Side. The school has developed strong programs including:

• Academic Achievement distinction from Texas Education Agency
• Award winning band program (Bear Band)
• Comprehensive athletics
• Various extracurricular and academic programs

During recent years, Brennan has served over 3,000 students with a student to teacher ratio under 18:1.

Future Development

An onsite elementary school is planned for future development within Arcadia Ridge, which would provide added convenience for elementary aged children.

Buyers should verify current school assignments directly with Northside ISD, as boundaries may change with district growth and new school openings.

What Shopping and Services Exist Near Arcadia Ridge?

The Potranco Road corridor has experienced significant retail development, bringing major shopping destinations within minutes of the community.

The Shops at Dove Creek

This major retail development near Loop 1604 and Potranco Road includes:

• Costco: Warehouse club with gas station
• TJ Maxx: Off price fashion retailer
• HomeGoods: Home furnishings
• Ross Dress for Less: Discount department store
• PetSmart: Pet supplies and services
• Michaels: Arts and crafts
• Ulta: Beauty products
• Famous Footwear: Footwear retailer
• Bath and Body Works: Personal care products
• Flix Brewhouse: Dine in movie theater

Grocery Options

Multiple grocery stores serve the area:

• H-E-B at 211 and Potranco: 112,000 square foot store opened 2020 with curbside pickup, delivery, and drive through pharmacy
• H-E-B at Alamo Ranch Parkway: Additional option to the east
• Walmart Supercenter: Located at Loop 1604 and Potranco Road

Additional Retail Development

The corridor continues to expand with developments including:

• Steven's Point retail center bringing Dunkin Donuts, Einstein Bros. Bagels, and additional services
• Continued commercial growth along Potranco Road and Highway 211

Dining and Entertainment

Beyond grocery and retail, the area offers:

• Chain restaurants throughout the retail centers
• Local dining options along the corridor
• Santikos Entertainment (under development) with luxury theaters, bowling, and arcade
• Sea World San Antonio: Major theme park minutes away
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Accessible via Loop 1604

What Employment Opportunities Exist Near Arcadia Ridge?

The Far West Side and Highway 90 corridor provide diverse employment options.

Military and Defense

Joint Base San Antonio encompasses multiple installations with significant civilian employment:

• Lackland AFB: Basic Military Training (BMT), Air Education and Training Command (AETC), 37th Training Wing, and numerous support functions
• Port San Antonio: Former Kelly AFB converted to civilian industrial complex and inland port with aerospace, manufacturing, and logistics employers
• Defense contractors: Numerous companies supporting military missions

Major Employers

The Highway 90 and Far West corridors host various employers:

• Aerospace and defense contractors
• Manufacturing facilities
• Distribution and logistics centers
• Healthcare facilities
• Retail and service sector employers

Commute Access

Highway 90 serves as the main freeway for San Antonio's West Side, providing access to:

• Port San Antonio
• Joint Base San Antonio Lackland
• St. Mary's University
• Our Lady of the Lake University
• Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium

What Recreation and Lifestyle Options Does Arcadia Ridge Provide?

Beyond community amenities, residents enjoy access to regional attractions and recreation.

Within the Community

• Resort style pools for swimming and relaxation
• 1.5 miles of walking and cycling trails
• Playgrounds and sports courts
• Nearly 200 acres of preserved open space

Regional Attractions

The Far West location provides convenient access to:

• Sea World San Antonio: Major theme park with marine life exhibits and rides
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Regional theme park via Loop 1604
• The Shops at La Cantera: Upscale open air shopping center
• The Rim: Large retail and entertainment center
• Topgolf: Entertainment venue with golf and dining

Outdoor Recreation

The Hill Country influence in Far West San Antonio provides access to:

• Government Canyon State Natural Area
• Medina River and lake recreation
• Hill Country drives and wineries
• Regional parks and nature preserves

How Is the Far West Side Growing and Developing?

Far West San Antonio represents one of the region's most active growth corridors.

Residential Growth

The number of new homes started in the area has increased significantly over the past decade, driven by:

• Attractive school districts
• Available land for development
• Fewer environmental restrictions compared to the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone to the north
• Highway improvements expanding access

Infrastructure Improvements

Recent and ongoing transportation investments include:

• Loop 1604 expansion and improvements
• Highway 211 development
• Potranco Road infrastructure upgrades
• Continued commercial and retail development

Future Outlook

The area continues attracting investment from:

• National homebuilders developing new communities
• Major retailers establishing Far West Side presence
• Big Tech data centers choosing the corridor
• Commercial developers recognizing growth potential

Who Does Arcadia Ridge Appeal To?

Arcadia Ridge attracts specific buyer profiles drawn to its features and location.

Military Families

The community's proximity to Lackland AFB and other JBSA installations makes it attractive for:

• Active duty personnel and their families
• Civilian employees at military installations
• Defense contractors supporting base missions
• Veterans seeking proximity to VA services

For military families planning moves to San Antonio, working with a Military Relocation Professional ensures understanding of installation locations and commute realities.

Growing Families

The combination of new construction, community amenities, and Northside ISD schools appeals to families seeking:

• Modern floor plans with space for children
• Neighborhood pools and playgrounds
• Quality public school options
• Suburban environment with outdoor access

First Time Buyers

Entry level pricing in the low to mid $300,000s attracts first time buyers who want:

• New construction with modern features and warranties
• Energy efficient homes with lower utility costs
• Community amenities without country club fees
• Quality school district for future planning

Move Up Buyers

Larger floor plans and premium lot options appeal to buyers upgrading from starter homes who desire:

• More square footage and bedrooms
• Enhanced outdoor living spaces
• Builder upgrades and customization options
• Established community amenities

Expert Insight from Tami Price

"Arcadia Ridge represents what modern master planned development can achieve when builders prioritize both amenities and natural preservation," says Tami Price, REALTOR® and Broker Associate. "The community's nearly 200 acres of open space combined with resort style pools and trails creates a lifestyle that suburban buyers increasingly demand. For military families in particular, the straightforward commute to Lackland AFB and Port San Antonio makes Arcadia Ridge a practical choice that does not sacrifice quality of life for location convenience."

As a Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and USAF Veteran, Tami brings specialized expertise to buyers navigating PCS moves and the unique considerations of purchasing near military installations.

Three Key Takeaways

• Substantial preserved open space: Nearly 200 acres of green space within a 700 acre community provides natural beauty and outdoor access uncommon in master planned developments
• Multiple builder options at varied price points: Meritage, Perry, Ashton Woods, CastleRock, and Empire offer floor plans from the low $300,000s to over $500,000, giving buyers choices in design and budget
• Strategic Far West location: Convenient access to Lackland AFB, emerging retail at Shops at Dove Creek, and Northside ISD schools positions Arcadia Ridge for continued appreciation in San Antonio's fastest growing corridor

Frequently Asked Questions About Arcadia Ridge

Q: What school district serves Arcadia Ridge?

A: Arcadia Ridge falls within Northside Independent School District. Students attend Herbert G. Boldt Elementary School, Dr. Joe J. Bernal Middle School, and William J. Brennan High School. An onsite elementary school is planned for future development. Buyers should verify current assignments with NISD.

Q: Which builders offer homes in Arcadia Ridge?

A: Multiple national and regional builders operate in Arcadia Ridge, including Meritage Homes, Perry Homes, Ashton Woods, CastleRock Communities, and Empire Communities. Each builder offers different floor plans, design aesthetics, and price points.

Q: What amenities does Arcadia Ridge offer?

A: The community features lagoon style and junior Olympic size pools, sports courts, playgrounds, gathering spaces, and approximately 1.5 miles of interconnected walking and cycling trails. Nearly 200 acres of preserved open space provides natural scenery throughout the development.

Q: How far is Arcadia Ridge from Lackland AFB?

A: Arcadia Ridge provides convenient access to Joint Base San Antonio Lackland via Highway 90 and Loop 1604. The commute varies based on specific destination within the base but generally ranges from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Q: What are home prices in Arcadia Ridge?

A: New construction typically starts in the low to mid $300,000s and extends into the low $500,000s depending on builder, floor plan, lot, and customization. Some homes may qualify for USDA financing based on location and buyer eligibility.

Q: What shopping is available near Arcadia Ridge?

A: The Shops at Dove Creek provides major retail including Costco, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Ross, and numerous other stores. H-E-B and Walmart Supercenter offer grocery shopping within minutes. Additional retail development continues along the Potranco Road corridor.

Q: Is Arcadia Ridge a gated community?

A: Arcadia Ridge is a master planned community with defined entry points and landscaped boulevards but is not a gated community with controlled access. The development emphasizes open space preservation and community amenities rather than gated security.

Q: What is the HOA fee in Arcadia Ridge?

A: HOA fees are approximately $37 per month or $350 annually, covering maintenance of common areas, amenities, and community landscaping. Exact fees should be verified with specific builders or the community association.

The Bottom Line on Arcadia Ridge

Arcadia Ridge delivers a compelling combination of new construction quality, community amenities, and Far West San Antonio convenience. The commitment to preserving nearly 200 acres of open space distinguishes it from communities that maximize lot density at the expense of natural character. For buyers seeking modern homes with resort style amenities in a growing corridor served by Northside ISD, Arcadia Ridge merits serious consideration.

The community suits those who value outdoor access, appreciate multiple builder options, and want straightforward commutes to military installations and the Highway 90 employment corridor. Its position in one of San Antonio's fastest growing areas suggests continued development of retail, services, and infrastructure that enhance long term livability.

Understanding how Arcadia Ridge compares to other San Antonio neighborhoods and communities helps buyers determine whether its Far West location and new construction focus align with their priorities.

For buyers navigating the decision to buy a home in San Antonio, professional representation ensures proper guidance through builder contracts and the unique considerations of new construction purchases.

Contact Tami Price, REALTOR®

Tami Price brings nearly two decades of San Antonio real estate experience and approximately 1,000 closed transactions to buyers exploring master planned communities like Arcadia Ridge. As a Broker Associate, USAF Veteran, and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), Tami provides specialized expertise for military families and civilian buyers navigating new construction purchases in Far West San Antonio.

Whether exploring new homes from Meritage, Perry, Ashton Woods, CastleRock, or Empire, Tami delivers professional representation backed by local knowledge and a commitment to client success. Understanding what buyers should know before signing a new construction contract helps ensure informed decisions.

Tami Price, REALTOR®, Broker Associate

📞 210 620 6681

✉️ tami@tamiprice.com

🌐 TamiPrice.com

📅 Book a Consultation

Disclaimer

This blog provides general information about Arcadia Ridge and should not replace professional real estate, legal, or financial advice. Market conditions, builder availability, pricing, school boundaries, and community features change over time. Buyers should verify all information independently with appropriate professionals, including confirming school assignments directly with Northside Independent School District and builder details directly with builder representatives. New construction purchases involve contracts that may differ from resale transactions. Tami Price, REALTOR®, is committed to providing accurate information but cannot guarantee the completeness or current accuracy of all details presented.