Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Forest Knolls, CA
Considering a move to Forest Knolls, CA? This scenic Marin County community of 1,200 residents offers a tranquil lifestyle amid redwoods, with a high median home price of $1.1M and average rents around $2,950. Enjoy very low crime rates, short 32-minute commutes, and highly educated neighbors. With mild weather, 70% sunny days, and good local schools, Forest Knolls is ideal if you value safety, natural beauty, and a close-knit, peaceful atmosphere.
Demographics - Forest Knolls, CA
Demographics - Forest Knolls, CA
Forest Knolls is a small community of 1,200 residents, known for its predominantly White population and a median age of nearly 49, indicating a mature, stable neighborhood. The gender balance is nearly equal, and about 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The area's moderate population density fosters a close-knit and peaceful environment.
Population:
1,200
Density:
430 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.9
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
3.5%
Others:
7.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Forest Knolls, CA?
Living in Forest Knolls comes with a high cost of living, with median home values around $1.1 million and average rents at $2,950, reflecting the area's desirability and limited housing supply. The cost of living index is significantly above the national average, largely due to housing expenses, while utilities and groceries are also higher than average. This area is best suited for those seeking a premium lifestyle in a tranquil setting.
Median House Value:
$1,100,000
Gross Rent:
$2,950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$980
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
176.4
Grocery:
120.8
Housing:
240.2
Utilities:
114.1
Transportation:
133.5
Health Care:
117.2
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Forest Knolls, CA a safe place to live?
Forest Knolls enjoys very low crime rates, making it one of the safer communities in Marin County. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 1,850, while property crime is also rare, with rates well below state and national averages. This makes the area especially appealing to families and those prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
54
Property Crimes Per 100k:
722
Crime Index:
776
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,850
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 166
Weather
What is the weather like in Forest Knolls, CA year-round?
Residents of Forest Knolls benefit from a mild, Mediterranean climate with cool, comfortable summers peaking at 78°F and mild winters averaging 40–58°F. The area receives abundant rainfall, about 54 inches annually, and boasts 70% sunny days, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The year-round pleasant weather adds to the community’s relaxed lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
40°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Forest Knolls features a well-educated, affluent community, with household incomes averaging above $115,000 and a low poverty rate of 5.9%. Nearly 98% of adults have at least a high school diploma, and over 64% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle, with most commuting about 32 minutes to work and a small percentage using public transit.
Median Income:
$56,000
Household Income:
$115,400
Family Income:
$143,000
Per Capita Income:
$63,200
Income Male:
$74,000
Income Female:
$54,000
Poverty Rate:
5.9%
Non English Speakers:
9.0%
Rent:
$2,950
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
4.2%
Commute Time:
32.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.8%
Bachelors or More:
64.5%
Education
How are the schools in Forest Knolls, CA?
Families in Forest Knolls have access to well-rated public schools with low student-teacher ratios, supporting personalized learning. Private education and nearby colleges, including the College of Marin and Dominican University, offer additional academic opportunities within a short drive. The area’s strong educational resources contribute to its appeal for residents seeking quality schooling options.
Public Schools
Name:
Lagunitas Elementary School
Street:
1 Lagunitas School Rd
Phone:
415-488-9437
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
San Geronimo Valley Elementary
Street:
1 Lagunitas School Rd
Phone:
415-488-9437
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Private Schools
Name:
Marin Waldorf School
Street:
755 Idylberry Rd, San Rafael
Phone:
415-479-8190
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
College of Marin
City:
Kentfield
State:
CA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
6,000
Name:
Dominican University of California
City:
San Rafael
State:
CA
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
The community is served by nearby major hospitals such as MarinHealth Medical Center and Novato Community Hospital, both offering comprehensive emergency services. Residents enjoy excellent access to healthcare, with more than 3 physicians per 1,000 people and over 96% health insurance coverage. The local healthcare index indicates high-quality services for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MarinHealth Medical Center
Address:
250 Bon Air Rd, Greenbrae, CA 94904
Phone:
(415) 925-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Novato Community Hospital
Address:
180 Rowland Way, Novato, CA 94945
Phone:
(415) 209-1300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.5%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Forest Knolls, CA?
Forest Knolls boasts a strong housing market, with median home prices at $1.1 million and most homes owner-occupied. Rental vacancies remain low at just over 3%, and home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year. The area offers stability and long-term value for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$1,100,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,950
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Forest Knolls residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Corte Madera, which provides convenient access for all licensing and registration needs. The DMV offers comprehensive online resources and customer support. Local vehicle owners benefit from the state’s established processes for driver and vehicle services.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
75 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, CA 94925
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.