San Rafael

San Rafael has a Mediterranean climate and is known for its mild winters and cool summers.

Welcome to San Rafael

 

A historic city with Spanish architecture and gorgeous natural landscapes

San Rafael is a historic city located in Marin County, California. It is the fifth-largest city in Marin County, with a large downtown area and a population of over 60,000 people. The city is home to Dominican University of California, as well as several historical landmarks such as the Mission San Rafael Arc angel and the Marin County Civic Center. San Rafael has a Mediterranean climate and is known for its mild winters and cool summers. The city is situated north of San Francisco and provides residents with easy access to all that the Bay Area has to offer.

What to Love

 
  • Historic feel as a former Spanish mission settlement
  • Diversity is abundant 
  • San Francisco Bay views
  • Year-round pleasant weather
  • A large downtown area with many entertainment opportunities

Local Lifestyle

 

San Rafael is a beautiful, culturally diverse city located in Marin County, California. The city is situated north of San Francisco and is served by the Smart Train and has access to the Richmond-San Rafael bridge, making it an easily accessible and convenient location for commuters. The local lifestyle in San Rafael is relaxed and casual, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. San Rafael is also home to several excellent schools, making it a fantastic place to raise a family. San Rafael is a wonderful city with something to offer everyone.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

 

San Rafael is home to several notable restaurants. The Mayflower Pub is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The bar features a wide selection of craft beer, as well as a menu of American classics. Flatiron is another popular restaurant in San Rafael. The bar offers a unique dining experience, with a menu that features dishes from all over the world. The Flatiron is also known for its extensive wine list. Sol Food is a Puerto Rican restaurant that is notable for its delicious Caribbean cuisine. Il Davide is an Italian restaurant that is known for its authentic dishes and intimate setting. San Rafael Joe’s is a local favorite that serves American fare in a casual atmosphere. These are just a few of the many great restaurants in San Rafael that offer something for everyone. Whether you are in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you will be sure to find a spot that suits your taste.

For a wonderful shopping experience, Northgate Mall is the go-to shopping destination in San Rafael. The mall has a wide variety of stores, ranging from high-end retailers to budget-friendly outlets. In addition, Northgate Mall also has a food court and a movie theater. Red Devil Records is another popular shopping spot in San Rafael. The store specializes in vinyl records, and it also sells CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays. T&B Sports is a must-visit for sports fans. The store offers a wide selection of sporting goods, including athletic wear, equipment, and shoes.

Things to Do

 

Gerstle Park is a favorite with locals in San Rafael. Its large grassy areas, picnic tables, and playground make it perfect for a day out with the family. The park also has a basketball court and a baseball field for sports lovers. McNears Beach is another popular destination. Located on San Francisco Bay, it offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands. A beach is also an exciting place for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. For those history buffs, the San Rafael Mission is a must-see. Founded in 1817, it is the oldest mission in California and has been beautifully preserved over the years. Visitors can tour the grounds and learn about the mission's role in influencing the development of the region.

San Rafael’s China Camp State Park is a wonderful place to experience nature and get some exercise. There are miles of hiking and biking trails, along with opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and kayaking. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and coyotes. For those who are looking for a unique experience, the Dia de Los Muertos Parade is a must-see. This annual event celebrates Mexican culture and honors the deceased with colorful costumes, traditional food, and music. The parade winds its way through the streets of San Rafael, culminating in a festive celebration at the city's cemetery.

Schools

 

San Rafael is served by four school districts: San Rafael City School District, among several others. Many of the schools are consistently top-ranked.

 

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Overview for San Rafael, CA

61,158 people live in San Rafael, where the median age is 43.1 and the average individual income is $61,962. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

61,158

Total Population

43.1 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$61,962

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for San Rafael, CA

San Rafael has 23,816 households, with an average household size of 2.48. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in San Rafael do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 61,158 people call San Rafael home. The population density is 3,687.1 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

61,158

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

43.1

Median Age

49.3 / 50.7%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
23,816

Total Households

2.48

Average Household Size

$61,962

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in San Rafael, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby San Rafael. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Madrone High Continuation
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
1/5
PRIVATE
K - 8th
No rating available
PRIVATE
1st - 12th
No rating available
PRIVATE
6th - 12th
No rating available
Laurel Dell Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 5th
3/5
PUBLIC
7th - 12th
No rating available
Montessori De Terra Linda
PRIVATE
PreK - 6th
No rating available
PUBLIC
K - 5th
3/5
PUBLIC
K - 5th
No rating available
Vallecito Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 5th
4/5
Bahia Vista Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 5th
No rating available
PUBLIC
K - 5th
4/5
James B. Davidson Middle
PUBLIC
6th - 8th
3/5
PRIVATE
6th - 12th
No rating available
Sun Valley Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 5th
4/5
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
4/5
Marin County Special Education
PUBLIC
K - 12th
No rating available
PRIVATE
9th - 12th
No rating available
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
3/5
PUBLIC
7th - 12th
No rating available
Marin County Regional Occupational Program
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
No rating available

Around San Rafael, CA

There's plenty to do around San Rafael, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

14
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
15
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score
27
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including UNTUCKit, Aikido of Tamalpais, and Marin longevity.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Shopping 3.7 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.97 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.27 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.56 miles 38 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.17 miles 30 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.89 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars

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