Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

San Rafael

San Rafael has a small-town atmosphere with all the amenities of urban life.

Welcome to San Rafael

The city with a mission
 
This diverse bayfront city is on the North Bay in Marin County, 20 minutes north of the San Francisco Bay Area. Besides being the county seat, it’s the oldest and largest city in Marin County. San Rafael boasts beautiful California scenery with a Mediterranean climate year-round. Its earliest settlers founded the Mission San Rafael Arcángel in the early 1800s. Today, visitors can tour a replica of the mission located in the center of the vibrant downtown. 
 
Many architectural styles are represented in San Rafael’s distinctive neighborhoods, with classic California bungalows and elegant historic downtown Victorian homes. To the north, the Marinwood and Lucas Valley neighborhoods feature Eichler-designed homes and superb properties in a semi-rural area. The residential area near the Peacock Gap Golf Club and Marin Country Club includes spectacular estates and lavish resort-style homes. Whatever style of home you’re looking for, San Rafael has it. 
 

What to Love

  • Easy commute to San Francisco Bay Area.
  • Mediterranean climate year-round.
  • Walkable tree-lined retail districts and neighborhoods.
  • Weekly farmers’ markets.

Local Lifestyle

Friendly, close-knit neighborhoods are the norm in San Rafael. Many residential areas are walkable and well-kept, with plenty of accessible sidewalks and parking. Outdoor enthusiasts love the nearby ocean, wide-open green spaces, and hiking and biking opportunities in and around San Rafael. Community events are plentiful and provide residents with opportunities to bond with their neighbors. San Rafael has a small-town atmosphere with all the amenities of urban life.
 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Fourth Street in San Rafael’s downtown area is bustling with action. There are several unique and locally-owned coffee shops to enjoy, such as the Pink Owl, Aroma Cafe, and Royal Ground Coffee. 
 
Located downtown is the Revel & Roost Brick Oven Kitchen, featuring a fresh seasonal menu utilizing local ingredients with a French and Spanish influence. With over 70 years in business, San Rafael Joe’s is a great place to enjoy their contemporary Italian American cuisine on Fourth Street.
 
The Art Works Downtown has two levels of galleries open to the public and working studios for artists. Take a stroll down Fourth Street, and you’ll find even more premier art galleries featured on the popular 2nd Friday Art Walk. Another must-see is the Falkirk Cultural Center, a gorgeous 19th-century, 11-acre estate where visitors can tour this elegant three-story historic home, view art exhibits, and tour the gardens.
 
Shopping is plentiful in San Rafael and includes the Northgate Mall, Montecito Plaza, and Marin Square. These shopping malls offer unique boutiques, premier retail stores, restaurants, and a variety of personal and professional services. 
 

Things to Do

China Camp State Park is on the San Pablo Bay with 1500 acres of wetlands and forests for visitors to enjoy. The history of its name comes from the Chinese immigrants who started a shrimping village here in 1868. The park has gone through many changes, but it is the largest intact wetland and salt marsh in California. Visitors can enjoy plentiful hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing at this historical park. 
 
Farmers' markets are the rage in San Rafael, with three year-round markets to choose from. Take your pick from the downtown San Rafael Farmers Market, Sunday Marin Farmers Market, or the Thursday Marin Farmers Market. A variety of vendors offer the best in local fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and other goodies. 
 
May Madness is the longest-running street show and parade held in downtown San Rafael every year. This fun-filled car show has it all with live music and pre-show activities for all ages.
 
Check out the California Gold Bar with its grand mahogany bar, tin ceilings, and plank floors for some nightlife. This award-winning bar features over 400 spirits and fun drinks during their “Golden Hour.” 
 

Schools

San Rafael has outstanding school options providing all students with diverse learning experiences and equipping them for post-secondary education and a career. 
 
  • Sun Valley Elementary
  • Miller Creek Elementary School District 
  • Terra Linda High School 
  • San Rafael High School
  • Caulbridge School
Search Homes

Overview for San Rafael, CA

72,230 people live in San Rafael, where the median age is 45 and the average individual income is $71,375.429. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

72,230

Total Population

45 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$71,375.429

Average individual Income

Around San Rafael, CA

There's plenty to do around San Rafael, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

24
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
36
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score
35
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including CAMP EDMO - North Bay, Anthony Durante, and Cue the Core.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Active 4.61 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.01 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.19 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.84 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.86 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.33 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for San Rafael, CA

San Rafael has 27,889 households, with an average household size of 4.97. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in San Rafael do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 72,230 people call San Rafael home. The population density is 2,459.426 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

72,230

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

45.00184826249481

Median Age

48 / 52%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
27,889

Total Households

4.97

Average Household Size

$71,375.429

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in San Rafael, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby San Rafael. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
San Rafael

Follow Me On Instagram

Work With Lorraine

Knowledge, Service, and Action are the three pillars of success in how I represent my clients. Working at Coldwell Banker is the solid foundation that allows me to do my job to the best of my ability.