Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Novato, CA
Considering a move to Novato, CA? This scenic city of 53,868 offers a safe, family-friendly atmosphere with low violent crime rates (110 per 100K), top-rated schools, and beautiful weather boasting 74% sunny days each year. While the cost of living is high, reflected in a median home price of $1,010,000 and average rent of $2,870, Novato provides strong incomes, excellent healthcare, and easy Bay Area access. Enjoy short commutes, a vibrant community, and a relaxed Northern California lifestyle.
Demographics - Novato, CA
Demographics - Novato, CA
Novato is home to around 53,868 residents, with a median age of 47.2, reflecting a mature and diverse community. The city features a blend of cultures, with nearly 22% Hispanic and 7.5% Asian populations, while about 18% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a welcoming suburban atmosphere.
Population:
53,868
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
69.1%
Black:
1.7%
Asian:
7.5%
Others:
9.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Novato, CA?
Novato has a high cost of living, with a median home value of just over $1 million and average rents near $2,870, making it one of the more expensive places to live in the Bay Area. Residents can expect elevated expenses for groceries, utilities, and transportation, and state income taxes range from 1% to 13.3%. However, strong local incomes and high quality of life help offset these higher costs.
Median House Value:
$1,010,000
Gross Rent:
$2,870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$900
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
170.4
Grocery:
126.5
Housing:
265.0
Utilities:
120.7
Transportation:
138.2
Health Care:
117.8
Miscellaneous:
114.2
Crime
Is Novato, CA a safe place to live?
Novato offers a generally safe environment, with a low violent crime rate of 110 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,230 per 100,000. Residents face a 1 in 909 chance of violent crime, making it a reassuring choice for families and individuals seeking peace of mind. Overall, the city's crime index suggests a safer-than-average community compared to national figures.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,230
Crime Index:
1,340
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 909
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 81
Weather
What is the weather like in Novato, CA year-round?
Novato enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with summer highs averaging 83°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 39°F. The city sees about 37.5 inches of annual rainfall and benefits from 74% sunny days, creating an inviting environment for year-round outdoor activities. These pleasant weather patterns contribute to the area's relaxed Northern California lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
57°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
74%
Neighbors
Novato’s neighborhoods are characterized by strong household incomes, with the median at $112,890, and a relatively low poverty rate of 5.6%. Nearly half of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the unemployment rate remains low at 3.5%. Commutes average about 33 minutes, and public transportation is available for 8% of locals, reflecting a well-educated and economically stable community.
Median Income:
$60,300
Household Income:
$112,890
Family Income:
$130,400
Per Capita Income:
$59,800
Income Male:
$73,000
Income Female:
$54,600
Poverty Rate:
5.6%
Non English Speakers:
18.2%
Rent:
$2,870
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
8.1%
Commute Time:
32.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
48.6%
Education
How are the schools in Novato, CA?
Novato offers quality educational opportunities, with public schools like Novato High School and San Jose Middle School serving local families and student-teacher ratios around 20:1. Private and higher education options are also available, including the nearby College of Marin – Indian Valley Campus, making it convenient for students of all ages. The city’s emphasis on education is reflected in its high percentage of residents with advanced degrees.
Public Schools
Name:
Novato High School
Street:
625 Arthur St
Phone:
415-898-2125
Students:
1,265
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Name:
San Jose Middle School
Street:
1000 Sunset Pkwy
Phone:
415-883-7831
Students:
890
Student Teacher Ratio:
20:1
Private Schools
Name:
Good Shepherd Lutheran School
Street:
1180 Lynwood Dr
Phone:
415-897-2510
Students:
185
Colleges
Name:
College of Marin – Indian Valley Campus
City:
Novato
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,200
Name:
Dominican University of California
City:
San Rafael
State:
CA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Residents have access to high-quality healthcare, including Novato Community Hospital and nearby Kaiser Permanente facilities, with 3.1 physicians per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is high at 95.8%, ensuring most community members can access necessary medical services. The city’s healthcare index underscores its reputation for reliable and comprehensive care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Novato Community Hospital
Address:
180 Rowland Way, Novato, CA 94945
Phone:
(415) 209-1300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Kaiser Permanente San Rafael Medical Center
Address:
99 Montecillo Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903
Phone:
(415) 444-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.8%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Novato, CA?
Novato’s housing market is robust, with a median home price of $1,010,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of over 70%. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $2,870, while home values have appreciated by 4.7% in the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates indicate strong demand and a stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$1,010,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,870
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Novato residents can easily access DMV services at the local California Department of Motor Vehicles office on 7th Street. This conveniently located branch provides a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services, supporting the community’s transportation needs. For more information, residents can visit the California DMV website or call the dedicated hotline.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
936 7th St, Novato, CA 94945
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.