Welcome To

Corte Madera

Home to shopping, dining, and even the famous Book Passage.

Welcome to Corte Madera

Nestled between the slopes of Mount Tamalpais and the marshlands of San Francisco Bay, Corte Madera is home to excellent schools and parks and all the expected urban amenities, making it a great place to raise a family in Marin County.

While the malls provide great shopping, there’s more to Corte Madera than retailers and easy access to San Francisco. Civic organizations donate the flower baskets that hang on almost every lamppost in town and coordinate the town’s blowout 4th of July Parade.

Little Leaguers take full advantage of the spacious, well-tended parks and ball fields. Families have been enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and delicious cuisine available in Corte Madera. The town can also claim Book Passage, an independent bookstore with a busy calendar of classes, workshops, and author readings that bring in literary luminaries.

Larkspur Schools Map
  • Neil Cummins Elementary School is a welcoming public school that serves students in grades K-5. With a focus on social-emotional learning, Neil Cummins fosters a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages collaboration among students, teachers, and families. As of 2024, Neil Cummins Elementary School is ranked #240 in California Public Schools.

    Academic Performance:

    78% of students are proficient in Math, significantly higher than the California state average of 33%. While the reading proficiency stands at 84%.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The school's student-teacher ratio is 20:1. The school has a population of 471 students, 23 teachers, and 1 principal.

  • Hall Middle School emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and social-emotional development, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive. With the help of dedicated teachers and active parental involvement, the school promotes a strong sense of community and encourages students to explore their interests and develop their unique talents. As of 2024, Hall Elementary School is ranked #257 in California Middle Schools.

    Academic Performance:

    65% of students are proficient in Math, while Reading proficiency is 75%.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The student-to-teacher ratio is 18:1. Also, the school has 481 students, 24, teachers and 1 principal

  • Redwood High School is a comprehensive public high school serving grades 9-12, known for its commitment to academic excellence and student engagement. The school offers a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses, vocational programs, and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports and the arts.
    As of 2024, Redwood High School is ranked #298 in National Rankings.

    Academic Performance:

    The school ranked 75th out of 2,348 California public high schools and garnered strong performance in English and Math standardized tests.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The student-to-teacher ratio is 20:1. Also, the school has a total population of 1,862 students, 20 teachers and 1 principal.

  • Emphasizing an individualized approach, Tamiscal supports students who may benefit from non-traditional educational settings. The curriculum focuses on academic achievement, social-emotional development, and real-world skills, enabling students to pursue their interests and complete their high school education.
    As of 2024, Tamiscal High Alternative High School is ranked #1,115 in California High Schools.

    Academic Performance:

    Proficiency in Reading/Language Arts is at 79%, while Math proficiency is at 39%

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The student-to-teacher ratio is 12:1. Also, the school has approximately 128 students.

  • Catering to students in Grades 11-12, the school focuses on personalized learning plans that accommodate individual needs and learning styles. With a strong emphasis on academic success, career readiness, and social-emotional growth, San Andreas offers a range of programs, including credit recovery, vocational training, and life skills development.
    As of 2024, San Andreas Continuation/Alternative High School is ranked #7,962 in California High Schools.

    Academic Performance:

    Based on the state test scores, it indicates that only about 10% of students are proficient in Math and Reading.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Also, the school a population of 70 students.

Public Schools

Private Schools

  • Marin Primary & Middle School is an independent school serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Known for its progressive educational approach, the school emphasizes academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility .

    Academic Performance:

    This school is one of the well-regarded among private schools in California, noted for its strong academic and emotional development programs.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The student-to-teacher ratio is 10:1. Also, the school has a population of 351 students, 44 teachers and 1 principal.

  • St. Patrick School is a private Catholic school serving students from preschool through eighth grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence within a values-based framework, integrating faith, service, and community into its curriculum. St. Patrick School offers a well-rounded education that includes a strong focus on the arts, sciences, and physical education.

    Academic Performance:

    The school has received positive feedback for its academic rigor and the effectiveness of its teaching methods, aiming to prepare students not just for high school, but for lifelong success​.

    Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:

    The school has a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. Also, the school’s population consists of 199 students, 11 teachers, and 1 principal.

Popular Restaurants in Corte Madera

Dog Parks

Corte Madera Dog Park - Town Bark

📍 Location: 518B Tamalpais Dr, Corte Madera,

📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset (Hours may vary; check locally or with the Town of Corte Madera)

✨ Highlights:

  • 15,000 sq ft fully fenced off-leash area with double gates

  • Rated ⭐️ 4.5 by local dog owners on Google

  • Safe, spacious area for dogs to run and socialize

  • Conveniently located near playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas

Corte Madera Town Park

📍 Location: 498 Tamalpais Dr, Corte Madera,

📅 Days open: Open daily. Typically less busy on weekdays.

Highlights:

  • Large open green spaces, perfect for soccer, touch rugby, and casual games

  • Playground with swings, basketball courts, and picnic areas

  • Well-maintained grounds and family-friendly atmosphere

  • Loved by locals — rated ⭐️ 4.6 from 270+ reviews on Google

Dog Spot | Corte Madera Marsh Path

📍 Location: Corte Madera, CA 94925, United States

📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset

Highlights:

  • Scenic multi-use trail along the Corte Madera marsh, part of the San Francisco Bay Trail

  • Leashed dogs only — perfect for peaceful, leash-controlled walks

  • Beautiful views of Mount Tamalpais, open wetlands, and local wildlife

Dog Spot | Phyllis Ellman Trailhead

📍 Location: Trailhead off Paradise Drive, Corte Madera, 

📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset

Highlights:

  • Leashed dogs welcome on scenic trails like the Phyllis Ellman loop (~2.6 mi) and Reed Ranch Fire Road

  • Great for peaceful hikes with bay views, marshlands, and seasonal wildflowers

  • Dogs must remain on leash — important for protecting local wildlife

Overview for Corte Madera

total household

4,037
Represents the number of family homes and living spaces across town — tight-knit and community-oriented.

Median household income

$220,771
Reflects the area's affluence and the comfortable lifestyle typical of this region.

Bachelor’s Degree or higher

76.8%
Shows a strong commitment to education among residents, with the majority holding advanced degrees.

total house units

4,174
Includes a mix of charming cottages, hillside homes, and modern residences that reflect Corte Madera's architectural diversity.

total population

10,222
A small yet vibrant town with deep roots and a welcoming spirit.

Information updated July 2025

Commute Distances

Golden gate Bridge

10.0 miles

via US-101 S Fastest route now due to traffic conditions

Down town San Francisco

14.7 miles

via US-101 S Fastest route now due to traffic conditions

Oakland international airport

32.3 miles

via I-580 E and I-880 S - Best route, despite the usual traffic

San Francisco international airport

26.4 miles

via US-101 S and CA-1 Fastest route, despite the usual traffic

truckee tahoe

187 miles

via I-80 E - Fastest route now, avoids slowdown on CA-37 E.

Neighborhood Guide - Corte Madera

Old Corte Madera Square

  • Vibe: Historic, quaint, and walkable

  • Highlights: Town Park, local boutiques, cafés, and historic homes

  • Housing: Cottages, bungalows, and early 20th-century homes

  • Who it’s for: Buyers who want charm, community, and proximity to local shops and eateries.

Madera Gardens

  • Vibe: Peaceful and suburban

  • Highlights: Quiet streets, close to The Village and Town Center malls

  • Housing: Single-story mid-century homes, often updated

  • Who it’s for: Those who looking for convenience and walkability.

East Corte Madera / Paradise Drive Corridor

  • Vibe: Secluded and upscale

  • Highlights: Bay views, luxury homes, close to Ring Mountain trails

  • Housing: Larger homes, many with modern updates and spacious lots

  • Who it’s for: Buyers seeking space, views, and a quieter lifestyle.

Mariner Cove

  • Vibe: Waterfront and residential

  • Highlights: Level streets, water views, near Cove School and Corte Madera Marsh

  • Housing: Primarily single-family homes with yards

  • Who it’s for: Those who enjoy proximity to nature and the bay.

Christmas Tree Hill

  • Vibe: Iconic, eclectic, and scenic

  • Highlights: Winding streets, panoramic views, a mix of architectural styles

  • Housing: Custom homes, cabins, and hillside properties

  • Who it’s for: Buyers seeking charm, privacy, and dramatic outlooks.

Chapman Park

  • Vibe: Wooded and hillside

  • Highlights: Mountain views, close to hiking trails, quiet streets

  • Housing: A mix of cottages, custom homes, and hillside properties

  • Who it’s for: Nature lovers and those wanting a tranquil setting near outdoor recreation.

Work With Dana

Fast-paced, dynamic, and constantly changing; these are just a few key aspects of areal estate market. Should you want to work with a respected realtor proven to excel in a competitive environment and who strives to lead in a calm, yet confident manner, then contact Dana.