Homes in San Rafael, CA
San Rafael offers diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and convenient access to San Francisco, making it a top choice for Marin County living.
Why San Rafael?
Marin County Seat & Government Hub
As the county seat, San Rafael hosts government offices, courts, and administrative services, creating local employment opportunities and civic engagement. The downtown government center anchors the community while providing convenient access to county services for residents.
Excellent Schools & Educational Options
San Rafael offers strong public schools including San Rafael High and Terra Linda High, plus Dominican University of California providing higher education opportunities. The Marin County Office of Education supports educational excellence throughout the region, making it attractive to families.
Convenient San Francisco Access
Golden Gate Transit express buses reach downtown San Francisco in 25-40 minutes, making it one of the most accessible Marin County cities for city commuters. The transit hub provides frequent service throughout the day, supporting both traditional and flexible work schedules.
Interactive Map
Neighborhoods in San Rafael
Discover the unique character and charm of San Rafael's diverse neighborhoods.
Downtown San Rafael
Historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and community events.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Fourth Street shopping district with boutiques, restaurants, and the Rafael Film Center.
Weekly farmers market, art walks, and community festivals throughout the year.
Golden Gate Transit hub providing express service to San Francisco.
Terra Linda
Established neighborhood with mature homes.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Terra Linda High School and nearby elementary schools create strong community ties.
Terra Linda Community Center and parks provide recreation and gathering spaces.
Convenient access to Highway 101 and San Rafael Transit Center.
Marinwood
Family-friendly area with parks and schools.
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Neighborhood Characteristics
For current pricing and availability, please contact us for personalized market information.
What Makes This Neighborhood Special
Marinwood Park and open space provide extensive recreation opportunities.
Strong schools and community programs make it ideal for families.
Community pool, sports fields, and walking trails anchor neighborhood life.
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Schools in San Rafael
Quality education is a cornerstone of San Rafael's appeal to families.
| School Name | Level | School Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia Vista Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Coleman Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Glenwood Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Laurel Dell Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Lucas Valley Elementary | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Mary E. Silveira Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| San Pedro Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Sun Valley Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Vallecito Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| Venetia Valley Elementary School | Elementary | ViewView Rating | |
| James B. Davidson Middle School | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Miller Creek Middle School | Middle | ViewView Rating | |
| Madrone High Continuation School | High | ViewView Rating | |
| San Rafael High School | High | ViewView Rating | |
| Terra Linda High School | High | ViewView Rating |
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Note: Verify current ratings and boundaries with official district resources. School assignments may change based on enrollment and boundary adjustments.
Major Employment Hubs & Local Employers
San Rafael offers excellent access to major Bay Area job centers and is home to several major employers.
Major Employment Hubs Near San Rafael
San Francisco Financial District & Embarcadero - Finance, legal, and tech headquarters reachable in 25-40 minutes via Golden Gate Transit express buses.
Downtown Oakland / Lake Merritt Business District - Government agencies, Kaiser Center, and fintech towers 45-60 minutes away via Golden Gate Transit and BART connection.
Marin County Government Center - County offices, courts, and government services in downtown San Rafael employing local residents.
Top Employers in San Rafael
Marin County Government
County seat with government offices, courts, and administrative services employing hundreds in various departments including public works, health services, and planning.
Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center
Major hospital and medical offices employing healthcare professionals, nurses, and support staff serving Marin County's healthcare needs.
Marin General Hospital
Regional medical center providing comprehensive healthcare services and employing medical professionals, technicians, and administrative staff.
Commute Times
San Rafael offers excellent connectivity to major job centers, airports, and regional destinations.
Commute to Major Job Centers
Airports
Regional Hotspots
Lifestyle & Amenities
Discover what makes San Rafael a special place to live.
Daily rhythms in San Rafael blend Marin County's natural beauty with urban convenience. Residents start mornings with coffee at downtown cafes before boarding Golden Gate Transit express buses to San Francisco, arriving in 25-40 minutes. Evenings bring neighbors to Fourth Street restaurants, the Rafael Film Center, or community events that keep downtown lively throughout the year.
Family life centers around excellent schools, community parks, and strong neighborhood connections. Parents appreciate the ability to choose from multiple strong elementary schools, while San Rafael High and Terra Linda High offer comprehensive programs. Neighborhoods like Marinwood and Sun Valley provide community pools, sports fields, and programs that bring families together.
Outdoor culture thrives thanks to proximity to Mount Tamalpais, Point Reyes National Seashore, and extensive open space. Residents enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking, and nature access just minutes from home, while the city's location provides easy access to beaches, redwood groves, and scenic overlooks. The natural setting means outdoor recreation is part of daily life.
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Weather & Climate
Quick-hit visuals that show how San Rafael feels throughout the year.
Temperature Story
Quick look at the seasonal swing in San Rafael
Winter Comfort Band
40–48°F
Typical overnight lows from December through February.
Summer Warmth Band
75–85°F
Afternoon highs during peak summer months.
Climate Type
Mediterranean
Overall pattern
Days of Sunshine
260+ days
Bright days/year
Annual Rainfall
30-35 inches
Nov–Mar showers
Marin County's location creates moderate temperatures year-round.
Mild summers with occasional heat waves; cool, wet winters with most rainfall occurring December thr...
Year-round outdoor living is possible thanks to moderate temperatures.
Parks & Recreation in San Rafael
San Rafael maintains over 8 parks and recreational facilities, from neighborhood parks to large regional parks.
China Camp State Park
State Park
Historic Chinese fishing village and 1,640-acre park with hiking trails, mountain biking, and San Pablo Bay access.
McNears Beach Park
Regional Park
Waterfront park with swimming beach, picnic areas, and San Pablo Bay views perfect for family recreation.
Gerstle Park
Community Park
Historic neighborhood park with playground, sports fields, and community gathering spaces in the Gerstle Park neighborhood.
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Natural Hazards & Fault Lines
Important information about seismic activity, flood zones, and fire hazards in San Rafael.
Major Fault Lines Near San Rafael
San Andreas Fault
Runs approximately 5 miles west through the Point Reyes Peninsula
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Hayward Fault
Located roughly 15 miles east across the Bay
Type: Right-lateral strike-slip
Rodgers Creek Fault
Runs through northern Marin County, approximately 8 miles northwest
Type: Strike-slip
Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Moderate to high in hillside and open space areas; low in established valley neighborhoods. Wildland-urban interface conditions exist in Lucas Valley and hillside areas.
CalFire Classification
Seismic Hazard Zones
Liquefaction Zones
Low to moderate risk in low-lying areas near creeks and Bay fill; minimal risk in hillside neighborhoods on stable ground.
Landslide Zones
Moderate to high susceptibility on steep hillside slopes, especially during heavy winter storms. Hillside neighborhoods require careful site evaluation.
Alquist-Priolo Fault Zone Status
Portions of San Rafael may fall within fault zone areas; geological reports required for new construction in designated zones.
FEMA Flood Zones
Zone Type
Zone AE along San Rafael Creek and low-lying areas; Zone X in hillside neighborhoods.
Flood Risk Notes
Homes near San Rafael Creek may require flood insurance. Flash flooding possible in creek corridors during heavy winter storms.
Additional Notes
San Rafael participates in regional wildfire prevention programs. Many hillside homes require defensible space clearance. PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs may occur during Red Flag warnings. Seismic retrofitting recommended for older homes built before 1980.
What Locals Say
Hear from residents about living in San Rafael.
"I love being able to take Golden Gate Transit to San Francisco in under 40 minutes. The commute is actually enjoyable, and I'm home in time for dinner with the family."
— Downtown San Rafael Resident
"The schools here are excellent, and the community feel is amazing. We know our neighbors, and the kids have so many opportunities for outdoor activities."
— Marinwood Parent
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Local Favorites
Discover recommended restaurants and dining spots in San Rafael.
Sol Food
Popular Puerto Rican restaurant serving authentic mofongo, plantains, and Caribbean cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.
Il Davide
Cozy neighborhood favorite in San Rafael serving fresh local flavors.
The Kitchen Table
Cozy neighborhood favorite in San Rafael serving fresh local flavors.
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What Makes San Rafael Special
Discover unique features, historical facts, and notable highlights of San Rafael.
Marin County Civic Center
Frank Lloyd Wright-designed civic center hosting government offices, events, and cultural programming, representing a unique architectural landmark.
China Camp State Park
Historic Chinese fishing village and 1,640-acre state park with hiking trails, mountain biking, and San Pablo Bay access preserving cultural and natural heritage.
Dominican University of California
Private university campus offering cultural events, lectures, and educational programs that enrich the community's intellectual and cultural life.
Golden Gate Transit Hub
Major transit hub providing express bus service to San Francisco, making San Rafael one of the most accessible Marin County cities for commuters.
Mount Tamalpais Access
Proximity to Mount Tamalpais State Park provides extensive hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation opportunities just minutes from home.
Historic Downtown Fourth Street
Vibrant downtown shopping district with boutiques, restaurants, and the Rafael Film Center creating a community gathering place.
Point Reyes National Seashore Access
Easy access to Point Reyes National Seashore provides world-class hiking, beaches, and natural beauty for outdoor enthusiasts.
Marin County Seat
As the county seat, San Rafael hosts government offices and courts, creating local employment opportunities and civic engagement.
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Insider Tips
What to know and what to be aware of when considering San Rafael.
What to Know
Golden Gate Transit Access
Express buses provide reliable service to San Francisco, but parking at transit centers can fill early. Consider walking or biking to stops.
Hillside Home Considerations
Homes in Lucas Valley and hillside areas may require defensible space for fire safety and careful site evaluation for stability.
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What to Avoid
Ignoring Traffic Patterns
Highway 101 can be congested during commute hours; factor in traffic when considering commute times.
Skipping Seismic Checks
Older homes may need seismic retrofitting; have inspections done before purchase.
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Homes for Sale in San Rafael
Active listings coming soon. Contact us for current availability.
Coming Soon
We're working on bringing you real-time listings for San Rafael. In the meantime, contact us to get personalized information about available homes in this area.
Nearby Cities
Explore other areas we serve in the Marin County region.
Questions About San Rafael
Common questions about living and buying in San Rafael.
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