| Cover Page Document | Apr. 06, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 6, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MERITAGE HOMES CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Entity File Number | 1-9977 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 86-0611231 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 8800 E. Raintree Drive |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Scottsdale |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AZ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 85260 |
| City Area Code | 480 |
| Local Phone Number | 515-8100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock $.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | MTH |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000833079 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
