SAN RAFAEL

Welcome to San Rafael 

A historic and eclectic city with natural beauty and culturally rich entertainment

Originally founded in the early 1800s and incorporated as a city in 1874, San Rafael is an ultimate mix of an urban and suburban atmosphere located only 16 miles north of San Francisco. It’s also only an hour and a half south of wine country, making it a convenient location ideal for those who want a central location from which to experience other parks of California. Made up of almost 23 square miles, San Rafael is the largest and oldest city in Marin County and a cultural stronghold amid extensive natural beauty. 

What to Love 

  • Great family-friendly suburb 
  • Easy commute to San Francisco 
  • Breathtaking natural beauty 
  • Culturally rich with extensive entertainment options 
  • Home to regional icons such as the civic center and county fair 

Local Lifestyle

This prosperous, family-friendly community is adored by the families and young professionals who are lucky enough to call this place home. It has more of a small-town feel than other bustling, sprawling cities within California, making it an attractive location for residents who appreciate a more peaceful lifestyle. Homes here are large, beautiful, and upscale, ranging across architectural styles. 

Locals can take advantage of gorgeous natural beauty, rich cultural events, and endless options for entertainment, making it an ideal place to call home. It has a vibrant downtown made up of beautifully restored Victorian buildings, unique shops, and eclectic restaurants, all surrounded by lush greenery.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Sol Food provides residents with authentic Puerto Rican fare in a festive atmosphere. Its popularity is clearly shown by the packed dining room and long lines filled with customers who can’t get enough. The tostones are the best, fried plantains you’ll ever have outside of Puerto Rico, and people are known to travel miles for one of their mouthwatering sandwiches. For unmissable Italian fare, Lo Coco’s Pizzeria serves flavorful pizzas made from recipes straight from the founders’ hometown of Sicily, Italy. 

Aside from the casual favorites, San Rafael also satisfies those who crave a fine dining experience. The Kitchen Table boasts an extensive wine list, a heated patio, and an open-concept kitchen serving elegant, Italian-inspired plates featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Or, for an upscale brewpub experience, The State Room has an eclectic, fusion-inspired menu with everything from Asian dumplings, pizzas, prime steak, and curry bowls. Plus, their cocktail menu is creative and masterfully crafted, making this spot a favorite among locals. 

Things to Do

San Rafael is a culturally-rich community that never runs short of things to do. Year-round, locals frequent the Sunday Farmers Market, which is the third largest farmers’ market in California. Hundreds of stands provide fresh local produce, handmade art and textiles, organic meats, and ready-to-eat meals, all while local musicians serenade visitors while they shop. San Rafael is also home to the Marin County Fair, which bursts with life every summer. Not only does it provide family-friendly entertainment, rides, performances, and food, but it also is known as the healthiest and greenest county fair on earth! 

Tourists and locals alike frequent the futuristic Marin Civic Center, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s a distinctive and historic local landmark featuring a park, lagoon, and exhibition hall, which hosts many events, both regional and national. For outdoor recreation, China Camp State Park is an oasis for those who seek wide open spaces, idyllic trails perfect for hiking and biking, and breathtaking scenic views. It’s located right on the bay, making it ideal for water activities such as kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. Additionally, it hosts a lively celebration of Chinese American Heritage Day every year, with arts and crafts, dances, acrobatics, and more. 

Schools

San Rafael is served by the San Rafael City School District

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
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor 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

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