Welcome To
Fairfax
Known as one of Marin County’s more affordable communities.
When you purchase a home in Fairfax, you’re also purchasing history. There’s still a whiff of 1960s counterculture in Fairfax, where the Jefferson Airplane once played softball with the Grateful Dead. This town of 7,500 residents just north of Mount Tamalpais is 30 minutes from San Francisco, less than 20 miles from Point Reyes, and is known as one of Marin County’s more affordable communities.
The heart of Fairfax is Broadway Boulevard, which parallels Sir Frances Drake Boulevard, the main traffic corridor heading west. Broadway is a perfect walking street where locals shop at Fairfax Coffee Roastery, purchase fresh local produce at the farmers market, and duck into Fairfax Variety for toys, tchotchkes, and candy. If Fairfax feels like it is living in a time warp, that’s just fine with its residents, who have passed ordinances prohibiting chain stores, plastic bags, and Styrofoam takeout-food packaging. The art-deco movie theater and 19 Broadway Bar & Night Club are at the center of the action when it comes to nightlife in Fairfax.
Welcome to Fairfax
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Cascade Canyon School is a small, private institution in Fairfax that serves students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. It emphasizes a close-knit, individualized learning environment with a strong focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.
Academic Performance:
The school offers personalized attention, aiming to engage each child’s unique abilities and interests. It promotes an interdisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for both academic and social success.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 8:1. Also, the school has a population of 73 students, 9 teachers and 1 principal.
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Marin Waldorf School, located in nearby San Rafael, offers a Waldorf education from Preschool through 8th grade. This approach integrates academic subjects with hands-on experiences, arts, music, and outdoor activities. Founded in 1972, it sits on a scenic 10-acre campus and provides a holistic curriculum that blends traditional subjects with artistic and environmental education.
Academic Performance:
The school emphasizes the development of the whole child, focusing on intellectual, social, and emotional growth, on hands-on learning with a curriculum covering math, sciences, art, and outdoor education.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 5:6:1. Also, the school’s population consists of 175 students, and 31 teachers.
Public Schools
Private Schools
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San Domenico Primary & Middle School is a private, co-educational institution that focuses on holistic education rooted in the values of respect, responsibility, and compassion. With a wide range of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and community service, San Domenico fosters the growth of well-rounded individuals prepared for their future academic journeys.
Academic Performance:
San Domenico Primary & Middle School is known for its strong academic performance, providing a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for future educational challenges. The school emphasizes a balanced approach to learning, integrating hands-on experiences and critical thinking across subjects.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 13:1. Also, the school has a population of 674 students.
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San Domenico High School is a private, co-educational institution that emphasizes academic rigor, character development, and community service. Rooted in a rich tradition of holistic education, the school provides a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and develop leadership skills. With a variety of extracurricular activities, including arts, athletics, and service projects, San Domenico prepares students for success in college and beyond.
Academic Performance:
The school is known for its strong academic performance, offering a rigorous curriculum that includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors classes. The school often achieves high scores on standardized tests, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 12:1. Also, the school has a population of 400 students.
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St. Anselm Elementary School is a private Catholic institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth. The school provides a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to develop their talents and character. With a focus on community service, faith-based education, and a strong sense of belonging, St. Anselm prepares students for success in high school and beyond. Extracurricular activities, including sports and arts programs, further enhance the educational experience.
Academic Performance:
Students have achieved such proficiency in core subjects such as Math and English Language Arts. The school emphasizes a rigorous curriculum and provides various enrichment.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 15:1. Also, the school’s population consists of 300 students.
Popular Restaurants in Fairfax
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Amélie Café and Wine Bar
Amélie Café and Wine Bar – French‑Californian Chic & Baked Goods
A charming spot for brunch, lunch or dinner, serving French‑style pastries, croissants, escargot, salad Niçoise and steelhead with persillade. Great for café vibes, a wine bar feel, and outdoor patio seating.
Location: 71 Broadway Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930
Phone: (628) 253‑516
Price Range: $15–$40 per person (brunch to dinner) -
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Stillwater
Stillwater – Seasonal Eats, Cocktails & Community Vibes
A Fairfax favorite known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes, craft cocktails, natural wines, and welcoming atmosphere. Stillwater is a go-to spot for gathering with friends over good food and drinks.
Location: 23 Broadway, Fairfax, CA 94930
Phone: (415) 524-8478
Price Range: $$ (Entrées around $15–$25) -
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Village Sake
Village Sake – Upscale Izakaya with Michelin Mention
A Bib Gourmand izakaya focusing on high‑quality Japanese cuisine: nigiri, skewers, and seasonal specials, complemented by a thoughtful sake selection. Perfect for date night or small groups.
Location: 19 Bolinas Rd, Fairfax, CA 94930
Phone: (415) 521-5790
Price Range: $30–$50 per person -
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Barefoot Cafe
The Barefoot Café – New American with a Local Farm‑to‑Table Touch
A beloved neighborhood favorite, offering seasonal California‑style New American cuisine—from hearty brunch to dinner—in a light, welcoming setting. Known for friendly service and a warm vibe.
Location: 1900 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax, CA 94930
Phone: (415) 460‑2160
Price Range: $15–$35 per person -
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Fradelizio's in Fairfax
Fradelizio’s – Northern Italian with California Flair
Casual‑elegant Italian eatery serving house‑made pasta, gnocchi, fresh fish and meats, all crafted with local ingredients. Fun, funky atmosphere right in downtown Fairfax.
Location: 35 Broadway, Fairfax, CA 94930, United States
Phone: (415) 459‑1618
Price Range: $25–$45 per person
Dog Parks
Cascade Canyon Preserve
📍 Location: Cascade Fire Rd, Fairfax,
📅 Days Open: Sunrise to Sunset
✨ Highlights:
Leashed dogs only allowed on trails and fire roads to protect wildlife, especially the endangered foothill yellow-legged frog in the streams
Scenic hiking area (~504 acres) featuring Cascade Falls, riparian woodlands, and diverse habitats
Limited roadside parking along Cascade Drive or Canyon Road; bring water and plan ahead
White Hill Open Space Preserve
📍 Location: Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Fairfax,
📅 Days Open: Sunrise to Sunset
✨ Highlights:
390 acres of open space with fire roads and ridge trails.
Dogs allowed on leash, with some areas permitting off-leash under voice control.
Great wildflower blooms in spring and panoramic ridgeline views.
Cascade Falls Trail
📍 Location: 26 Oak Rd, Fairfax,
📅 Days Open: Sunrise to Sunset
✨ Highlights:
Short ~0.5 mile hike to a seasonal waterfall.
Shady, creekside trail great for quick outings.
Dogs must be leashed; trails can get muddy after rain.
Overview for Fairfax
total household
5,102
Nearly every housing unit is occupied, showing strong demand.
Median household income
$170,457
One of the highest income levels in Marin County.
Bachelor’s Degree or higher
70.8%
A highly educated population, with over 70% holding a degree.
total house units
5,518
A limited housing market with only a modest number of homes.
total population
12,830
A close-knit small-town community.
Information updated July 2025
Commute Distances
Golden gate Bridge
14.3 miles
via Sir Francis Drake Blvd and US-101 S Fastest route now due to traffic conditions
Down town San Francisco
20.9 miles
via Sir Francis Drake Blvd and US-101 S Fastest route now due to traffic conditions
Oakland international airport
33.9 miles
via I-580 E Fastest route now due to traffic conditions
San Francisco international airport
32.7 miles
via US-101 S Fastest route now, avoids slowdown on I-580 E.
truckee tahoe
189 miles
via I-80 E Fastest route now, avoids slowdown on CA-37 E.
Neighborhood Guide Fairfax
Downtown Fairfax
Vibe: Funky, walkable, and vibrant
Highlights: Live music venues, organic cafes, shops, weekly farmers market
Housing: Classic Craftsman homes, cottages, small apartment buildings
Who it’s for: Buyers who love being in the center of local life, close to culture and convenience.
Deer Park
Vibe: Tranquil and nature-connected
Highlights: Steps to Mt. Tam trails, wooded streets, Deer Park School
Housing: Rustic homes, cabins, and updated retreats
Who it’s for: Outdoor enthusiasts and families who want easy trail access.
Cascade Canyon
Vibe: Secluded, peaceful, and lush
Highlights: Redwood groves, Cascade Falls, creekside walking
Housing: Custom homes, cabins, hillside properties
Who it’s for: Buyers wanting a private, forest-like escape close to town.
Manor Hill
Vibe: Elevated and scenic
Highlights: Sweeping valley views, peaceful cul-de-sacs
Housing: Contemporary homes, some new builds, varied architecture
Who it’s for: View seekers and those looking for a quiet hillside setting.
Bennett Valley / Scenic Area
Vibe: Historic and charming
Highlights: Unique architecture, walkability, artistic character
Housing: Bungalows, period homes, and charming older properties
Who it’s for: Buyers drawn to vintage character and close-in convenience.
Oak Manor
Vibe: Residential and family-oriented
Highlights: Nearby schools, flat streets for biking, community parks
Housing: Ranch-style homes, updated mid-century houses
Who it’s for: Families seeking space, quiet, and access to top schools.
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.