California / Marin County

Moving to Novato, CA

Thinking of making a move to Novato, CA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Novato, CA

Considering a move to Novato, CA? This welcoming community of 53,486 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $1,050,000 and average rents near $2,650. Commute times average 35 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (65% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Novato's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Novato, CA

Novato has a population of 53,486 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 45 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 66% White, 2% Black, and 8% Asian residents, and over 18% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
53,486
Density
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age
45.2
Gender Ratio
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
17.8%

Ethnic Composition

White
66.0%
Black
2.3%
Asian
7.8%
Others
23.9%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Novato, CA?

The cost of living in Novato is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 171.4. Median home values are around $1,050,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $2,650. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$1,050,000
Gross Rent
$2,650
Monthly Electricity Charges
$155
Auto Insurance
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$4,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$1,020
State Taxes
Low: 1.0%| High: 13.3%
Cost Of Living Index
171.4
Grocery
112.8
Housing
248.5
Utilities
122.1
Transportation
146.3
Health Care
114.7
Miscellaneous
126.0

Crime

Is Novato, CA a safe place to live?

Novato is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 210 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 62. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in California.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
210
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,620
Crime Index
1,830
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 62

Weather

What is the weather like in Novato, CA year-round?

Novato experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 82°F and cold winters dipping to 40°F. The area receives about 35 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 65% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
40°F
Max
58°F

Summer

Min
55°F
Max
82°F

Spring

Min
48°F
Max
68°F

Fall

Min
48°F
Max
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches
34.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
65%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $123,000 and a low poverty rate of 5.9%. Over 94% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 50% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 35 minutes, and almost 9% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$58,500
Household Income
$123,000
Family Income
$146,000
Per Capita Income
$59,800
Income Male
$69,500
Income Female
$58,200
Poverty Rate
5.9%
Non English Speakers
21.4%
Rent
$2,650
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Public Transport Usage
8.6%
Commute Time
34.8 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
93.8%
Bachelors or More
49.6%

Education

How are the schools in Novato, CA?

Novato offers quality education options, with public schools like Novato High School and Sinaloa Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including College of Marin and Dominican University of California. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Novato High School
Street
625 Arthur St
Phone
415-898-2121
Students
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio
21.1
Name
Sinaloa Middle School
Street
2045 Vineyard Rd
Phone
415-897-1171
Students
720
Student Teacher Ratio
18.9

Private Schools

Name
San Marin Christian School
Street
100 Phillips Dr
Phone
415-898-8177
Students
180

Colleges

Name
College of Marin
City
Novato
State
CA
Distance
4 miles
Students
4,200
Name
Dominican University of California
City
San Rafael
State
CA
Distance
11 miles
Students
1,800

Healthcare

Novato residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Novato Community Hospital and MarinHealth Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.7 per 1,000 people and 94.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Novato Community Hospital
Address
180 Rowland Way, Novato, CA 94945
Phone
(415) 209-1300
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
MarinHealth Medical Center
Address
250 Bon Air Rd, Greenbrae, CA 94904
Phone
(415) 925-7300
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage
94.8%
Health Care Index
79.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Novato, CA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $1,050,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 66%. The market has seen a 4.6% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.1%. Novato offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$1,050,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$2,650
Owner Occupied Rate
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.6%
New Construction Rate
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Novato handle vehicle services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Sacramento. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
California
Department
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
2415 1st Ave, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone
1-800-777-0133

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.

FAQs About Moving to Novato, CA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Novato, review the core fields on this page: population 53,486, median home value $1,050,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $2,650, commute time 34.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 65%.

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