Waterston vs. Morrison Ranch – A Factual Comparison of Two Master-Planned Communities in Gilbert, Arizona

by Kelly Saggione

🏡 Waterston vs. Morrison Ranch – A Factual Comparison of Two Master-Planned Communities in Gilbert, Arizona

Waterston and Morrison Ranch are two well-known master-planned communities located in Gilbert, Arizona. Both are frequently considered by buyers relocating to or within the East Valley. While they share some similarities, they differ in development timeline, amenities, and overall structure.

Below is a factual comparison based on publicly available information and observed community characteristics.

📍 Location

Waterston and Morrison Ranch are both located within the Town of Gilbert.
Both communities offer access to major roadways, local schools, parks, and retail centers.
Neither community is gated.

🏘️ Morrison Ranch (Gilbert, AZ)

Development status

Morrison Ranch is a fully built-out master-planned community.
Homes were constructed over multiple phases beginning in the mid-2000s.

Community features

Multiple man-made lakes
Greenbelts and walking paths
Parks and open space maintained by the HOA

Home characteristics

Predominantly single-family residences
Architectural styles are generally traditional
Home ages vary by section

HOA

HOA is responsible for common area maintenance, including lakes, landscaping, and shared amenities.

🏗️ Waterston (Gilbert, AZ)

Development status

Waterston is a newer master-planned community with multiple sections, including North, Central, and South.
Portions of the community have been developed by Tri Pointe Homes.

Community features

Central amenities include:

Community pool
Splash pad
Lake
Playgrounds
Basketball court
Community gathering areas

Home characteristics

Primarily newer construction compared to Morrison Ranch
Modern building standards and layouts
Mix of home sizes depending on section and phase

HOA

HOA maintains shared amenities and common areas.

🧱 Key Structural Differences

Morrison Ranch

Fully built-out community
Older homes (age varies by phase)
Multiple community lakes
No centralized community pool
Built by multiple builders over time
Traditional neighborhood layout

Waterston

Newer, phased development
Newer homes
Central community lake
Central community pool and splash pad
Tri Pointe Homes involved in Waterston Central
Master-planned layout with centralized amenities

📌 Summary

Morrison Ranch is an established master-planned community with mature landscaping, lakes, and completed development.
Waterston is a newer master-planned community with centralized amenities and ongoing or recent construction phases.

Both communities are located in Gilbert and are governed by homeowner associations. Choice between the two typically depends on buyer preference for home age, community layout, and amenities rather than location.

🏡 Need Current Listings or HOA Information?

If you’d like: