Welcome To
San Rafael
San Rafael is large, diverse, eclectic, and historic.
The county seat of Marin, San Rafael is large, diverse, eclectic, and historic. That history stretches from California’s beginnings, with the 1817 founding of Mission San Rafael on the old El Camino Real, to the construction of the eye popping Marin Civic Center in the 1960s. Designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Civic Center was completed in 1962 and is so futuristic that it pops up in science-fiction films.
San Rafael still looks to the future thanks to a vibrant downtown redevelopment effort. The focal point of downtown is the Smith Rafael Film Center, which features a state–of-the-art multiplex cinema that screens independent and foreign films. The neighborhoods of San Rafael are very distinctive. From the sought-after midcentury Eichler homes of Terra Linda to the Victorians that surround Dominican College and the custom homes of Lucas Valley, San Rafael provides diversity of price and style.
It’s also easy to get away from it all in San Rafael. Nearby China Camp State Park is a jewel by the bay, offering: a kid-friendly, walk-in campground for tents only; a shallow, protected swimming beach; and biking and running trails.
Welcome to San Rafael
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Coleman Elementary School is dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for its students. The school emphasizes academic excellence, character education, and community engagement
As of 2024, Coleman Elementary School is ranked #2074 in California Elementary Schools.Academic Performance:
About 57% of students are proficient in Math, and 52% are proficient in Reading.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The school's student-teacher ratio is 22:1. The school has a population of 390 students, 16 teachers, and 1 principal.
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Bel Aire Elementary School serves grades 3 to 5 and is part of the Reed Union School District. It is known for a strong academic focus and a commitment to creating a nurturing environment for students. The school emphasizes not only academic excellence but also the development of social and emotional skills.
As of 2024, Bel Aire Elementary School is ranked #257 in California Elementary Schools.Academic Performance:
When in terms of standardized testing, approximately 76% of students achieve proficiency in mathematics, which is significantly higher than the state average of 33%. Additionally, 81% of students are proficient in reading, compared to a state average of 47%.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 16:1. Also, the school has 303 students, 18 teachers, and 1 principal.
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Miller Creek Middle School values character education, community service, and student involvement. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, ranging from sports to academic and interest clubs.
As of 2024, Miller Creek Middle School is ranked #347 in California Middle Schools.
Academic Performance:
At Miller Creek Middle, 63% of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 75% scored at or above that level for reading.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 18:1. Also, the school has a total population of 690 students, 36 teachers and 1 principal.
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Terra Linda High School generally demonstrates strong academic performance, with students achieving proficiency in key subjects such as English Language Arts and Mathematics. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors classes, preparing students for college and future academic challenges.
As of 2024, Terra Linda High School is ranked #3,185 in the National Rankings.
Academic Performance:
The AP participation rate at Terra Linda High School is 54%.
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 1,189 students, 36 teachers and 1 principal.
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Madrone Continuation High School is dedicated to helping students who may face challenges in a traditional high school setting. The school emphasizes personalized education, social-emotional development, and life skills. With a focus on fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere, Madrone provides various programs and resources to support students in completing their high school education and preparing for future opportunities.
Academic Performance:
The school aims to help students achieve their educational goals through personalized learning plans and targeted support..
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The student-to-teacher ratio is 15:1. Also, the school has a total population of 188 students.
Public Schools
Private Schools
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Brandeis Hillel Day School is a private Jewish day school that caters through preschool until eighth grade, is dedicated to providing a holistic education and emphasizes the importance of Jewish values, community involvement. Brandeis Hillel encourages students to explore their interests and develop a strong sense of identity and purpose.
Academic Performance:
This school is well known for its rigorous curriculum,with students excelling in both general and Jewish studies.
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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Dunham Academy is known for emphasizing a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for future educational success. The school often focuses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, helping students achieve proficiency in core subjects.
Academic Performance:
The school reached 75% proficiency both in Math and Reading subjects.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 20:1. Also, the school’s population consists of 200 students.
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Marin Academy, located in San Rafael, California, is a private, nonsectarian high school serving Grades 9-12. The academy places a strong emphasis on creativity and independent thinking, offering unique programs like the Science Research Collaborative, where students engage in original scientific research alongside professionals.
Academic Performance:
The academic performance of the school is high, with a 100% graduation rate. Students score impressively on standardized tests, with an average SAT score of 1410 and an ACT score of 32.
Student-Teacher Ratio, Population, and Number of Teachers/Principal:
The school has a student-teacher ratio of 8:1. Also, the school’s population consists of 438 students.
Popular Restaurants in San Rafael
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Il Davide
Il Davide – Upscale Italian Comfort
A popular spot in downtown San Rafael known for its refined Italian fare—homemade pastas, seafood, and wood‑fired pizzas. Regulars praise its warm ambiance and consistent quality.
Location: 901 A St, San Rafael, CA 94901, United States
Phone: (415) 454 ‑8080
Price Range: $30–$50 per person -
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Ristorante La Toscana
Ristorante La Toscana – Classic Italian in Marin
A San Rafael favorite, La Toscana serves authentic Italian comfort food with a modern touch. From fresh pastas and risottos to hearty classics like Chicken Marsala and Braised Beef Short Rib, it’s loved for its warm atmosphere, great wine list, and welcoming service — a go-to near the Marin Civic Center.Location: 3751 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone: (415) 492-9100
Price Range: $30–$50 per person -
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Hot Italian
Hot Italian – Modern Pizza Spot
A lively pizzeria in downtown San Rafael, Hot Italian is known for its creative pies, vegan options, and relaxed vibe. Guests enjoy the outdoor seating, friendly service, and a menu that balances classics with bold flavors.
Location: 909 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: (628) 285-8630
Price Range: $20–$30 per person -
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Los Moles Hecho En Casa
Los Moles – Authentic Mexican Buffet Experience
Known for its vibrant weekly buffet featuring seven house‑made moles, tortillas, soups, vegetarian options and traditional soups. A strong local favorite for Mexican cuisine in Marin.
Location: 912 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901, United States
Phone: (415) 453-5850
Price Range: $20–$30 per person -
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Lou’s Takeaway
Lou’s Takeaway – Creative Asian‑Inspired Takeout Shack
A small, quirky takeout-only spot serving wildly creative, seasonally changing dishes rooted in Asian flavors with Cali sensibility. Items often sell out—go early or call ahead.
Location: 621A Del Ganado Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone: (415) 226-7994
Price Range: $10—$20 per person
Dog Parks
Field of Dogs Dog Park
📍 Location: San Rafael, CA 94903, United States
📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset (confirm locally)
✨ Highlights:
The only fenced, off‑leash dog park within San Rafael—about ¾ acre of dedicated space with separate small‑dog section
Benches, picnic tables, trees for shade, water faucets and bowls, waste stations provided
Volunteer‑run nonprofit facility, close to Lagoon Park restrooms
McInnis Park
📍 Location: 310 Smith Ranch Rd, San Rafael,
📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset
✨ Highlights:
An off‑leash area used by locals, with separate zones for small and large dogs
Grassland space; recall‑trained dogs run free under voice control
No formal amenities—bring your own water and bags
Albert Park
📍 Location: 151 Andersen Dr, San Rafael,
📅 Days Open: Daily — Sunrise to Sunset
✨ Highlights:
Community greenspace with walking paths and open areas—dogs must remain on leash per city regulation
Good for peaceful, residential walking routes away from traffic; quiet and low‑key
Overview for San Rafael
total household
23,250
San Rafael has over 23,000 households.
Median household income
$109,317
The city boasts a strong median household income, above the national average.
Bachelor’s Degree or higher
49.4%
Nearly half of San Rafael residents hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
total house units
24,502
The city offers more than 24,000 housing options.
total population
61,271
San Rafael is home to just over 61,000 residents.
Information updated July 2025
Commute Distances
Golden gate Bridge
13.5 miles
via US-101 S Fastest route, despite the usual traffic
Down town San Francisco
18.2 miles
via US-101 S Fastest route, despite the usual traffic
Oakland international airport
30.5 miles
via I-580 E and I-880 S Fastest route, despite the usual traffic
San Francisco international airport
29.9 miles
via US-101 S Fastest route now, avoids slowdowns
truckee tahoe
189 miles
via I-80 E Fastest route now, avoids slowdown on CA-37 E.
Neighborhood Guide - San Rafael
Downtown San Rafael
Vibe: Lively, historic, walkable
Highlights: Fourth Street shops & restaurants, SMART train station, arts & cultural venues
Housing: Historic homes, small apartments, some newer mixed-use developments
Who it’s for: Buyers who enjoy walkability, dining, and cultural events in a vibrant urban setting.
Sun Valley
Vibe: Friendly, residential, family-oriented
Highlights: Sun Valley Park, Glenwood Elementary School, tree-lined streets
Housing: Single-family homes with yards, mostly mid-century styles
Who it’s for: Those looking for a peaceful, community-centric neighborhood near downtown.
Dominican / Black Canyon
Vibe: Academic, serene, leafy
Highlights: Dominican University, hiking trails, mature landscaping
Housing: Spanish and Mediterranean-style homes, spacious lots
Who it’s for: Nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful, upscale setting close to town.
Terra Linda
Vibe: Suburban, mid-century modern, family-friendly
Highlights: Northgate Mall, Terra Linda Rec Center, good schools
Housing: Eichler homes, mid-century ranches, townhomes
Who it’s for: Fans of mid-century architecture and buyers prioritizing schools and convenience.
Peacock Gap
Vibe: Upscale, scenic, suburban
Highlights: Peacock Gap Golf Club, China Camp State Park
Housing: Large single-family homes, some gated properties
Who it’s for: Buyers seeking luxury homes near nature and outdoor activities.
Marinwood / Lucas Valley
Vibe: Quiet, nature-focused, suburban
Highlights: Open space, hiking/biking trails, Marinwood Community Center
Housing: Ranch-style homes, Eichlers, some newer developments
Who it’s for: Nature-lovers who want space and serenity.
Glenwood
Vibe: Tranquil, family-oriented
Highlights: Glenwood Elementary, quiet streets, proximity to open space
Housing: Primarily single-family homes with yards
Who it’s for: Buyers looking for a safe, community-driven neighborhood.
Gerstle Park
Vibe: Historic, artsy, neighborhood charm
Highlights: Gerstle Park, Victorian homes, community events
Housing: Classic Victorian and Craftsman homes, some duplexes
Who it’s for: Buyers who appreciate character homes and a strong neighborhood identity.
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.