Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tomales, CA
Considering a move to Tomales, CA? This tranquil town of about 210 residents offers a friendly, small-town feel with stunning coastal scenery and a mild climate, enjoying 69% sunny days each year. The median home price is around $1,050,000 and average rents are $2,250, reflecting the premium for Marin County living. Crime rates are low, commutes average 34 minutes, and schools like Tomales High serve the local community. Tomales is perfect for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to nature and strong educational attainment.
Demographics - Tomales, CA
Demographics - Tomales, CA
Tomales is a close-knit coastal community of just 210 residents, characterized by a mature median age of 54 and a population density of 340 people per square mile. The area is predominantly White, with a small but notable diversity and about 13.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its gender ratio is balanced and the demographic profile attracts those seeking a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
210
Density:
340 per sq mi
Median Age:
54
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.9%
Others:
17.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tomales, CA?
Living in Tomales comes with a high cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $1,050,000 and average rents of $2,250 per month. The area’s cost of living index is 169, well above the national average, largely due to housing expenses and Marin County’s premium lifestyle. Utilities and healthcare are also moderately higher than average, making Tomales ideal for those prepared for an upscale budget.
Median House Value:
$1,050,000
Gross Rent:
$2,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
169
Grocery:
128.2
Housing:
256.1
Utilities:
114.5
Transportation:
143.7
Health Care:
120.3
Miscellaneous:
117.4
Crime
Is Tomales, CA a safe place to live?
Tomales offers a low-crime environment, with a violent crime rate of just 98 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,120 per 100,000. The chances of experiencing violent crime are exceptionally low, about 1 in 1,020, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. Its tranquil setting adds to the overall sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
98
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,218
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,020
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Tomales, CA year-round?
Tomales enjoys a mild coastal climate with cool, comfortable temperatures year-round—summer highs reach about 71°F, while winter lows rarely dip below 42°F. Residents benefit from 69% sunny days annually and an average rainfall of 33 inches, creating an inviting environment for outdoor enthusiasts. The consistent, moderate weather is a major draw for those seeking a temperate lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
42°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
71°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
69%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Tomales are marked by a median household income of $84,500 and a low poverty rate of 8.1%. Most residents are well-educated, with 94% holding a high school diploma and over 42% having a bachelor’s degree or higher. The area maintains a low unemployment rate and features longer-than-average commute times, suited to those who value rural charm over urban convenience.
Median Income:
$43,000
Household Income:
$84,500
Family Income:
$96,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$51,000
Income Female:
$42,500
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$2,250
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
34.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.0%
Bachelors or More:
42.1%
Education
How are the schools in Tomales, CA?
Education in Tomales is anchored by well-regarded public schools, including Tomales High and Tomales Elementary, both known for small class sizes and supportive environments. Higher education is accessible with the College of Marin located about 30 miles away. The strong educational attainment in the community is reflected in high graduation and college attendance rates.
Public Schools
Name:
Tomales High School
Street:
3850 Irvin Rd
Phone:
707-878-2286
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Name:
Tomales Elementary School
Street:
40 John St
Phone:
707-878-2214
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Colleges
Name:
College of Marin
City:
Kentfield
State:
CA
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
7,000
Healthcare
Tomales residents have access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals—Petaluma Valley Hospital and MarinHealth Medical Center—nearby for emergency and general care. The area boasts a strong physician-to-population ratio of 2.7 per 1,000 and high health insurance coverage at 92.3%. Overall, healthcare services are comprehensive and readily available for the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Petaluma Valley Hospital
Address:
400 N McDowell Blvd, Petaluma, CA 94954
Phone:
(707) 778-1111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MarinHealth Medical Center
Address:
250 Bon Air Rd, Greenbrae, CA 94904
Phone:
(415) 925-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tomales, CA?
The Tomales housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $1,050,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $2,250 per month. Homeownership is high, at 71.3%, and the area has a low foreclosure rate and steady annual home appreciation of 4%. Limited new construction and moderate vacancy rates contribute to the market’s stability.
Median Home Price:
$1,050,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Tomales residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles in nearby Novato, providing convenient access for licensing and registration services. The DMV’s website offers online resources, and the local office is easily reachable by phone. California’s DMV system ensures residents can manage vehicle and licensing needs efficiently.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1377 South Novato Blvd, Novato, CA 94947
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.