Central Novato, Novato, CA
At a glance
Central Novato is ranked #6 of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall score of 2.8/5. Its standout factors are curb appeal (3.5/5) and public spaces (3.5/5), at a median home price of $1.03M. It ranks 4th of 7 in Novato for schools. The trade-offs are safety (1.8/5) and nearby merchants (3.0/5), though prices run about 13% below the Novato median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Central Novato blends suburbia with walkable convenience. Anchored by Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and a cluster of shops along Grant and Redwood, it offers an accessible lifestyle that’s less car-dependent than many other parts of Novato. Homes here are primarily mid-century ranches and early 2000s subdivisions, with a few apartment complexes and duplexes closer to the downtown core. While it's not a standout for natural scenery, Pioneer Park and the nearby Rush Creek Trailhead offer light recreational options. The streets themselves are a bit mixed—some are well-maintained and tree-lined, others show their age with cracked sidewalks and inconsistent landscaping. Its strength lies in livability: easy errands, decent school proximity, and a central location that shortens most commutes within Novato.
Top Neighborhoods in Novato, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants3.0
Public Spaces3.5
Curb Appeal3.5
Overall Amenities score: 3.4
Neighborhood Weather
Neighborhood Photos
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Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lu Sutton Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Olive Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Rancho Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| San Ramon Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Sinaloa Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| Novato High | High | 9-12 | |
| San Marin High | High | 9-12 |
Click links for school listing
info at GreatSchools.org
Houseberry School Score Data
from CA Dept. of Education
Houseberry recommends using these scores as only a starting point, and conducting your own investigation into what schools fit best for your preferences. School boundaries are not guaranteed and may change. It is important to contact the appropriate school district to confirm enrollment eligibility before making any decision to move to a neighborhood.
Median Price
Central Novato FAQs10 answers
Is Central Novato a good place to live?
Central Novato ranks 6th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall Houseberry score of 2.8 out of 5. Its strongest factors are curb appeal (3.5/5) and public spaces (3.5/5). The trade-offs are safety (1.8/5) and nearby merchants (3.0/5).
Is Central Novato safe?
Central Novato, Novato scores 1.8 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 6th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato.
What do homes in Central Novato cost?
The median home price in Central Novato, Novato is $1.03M, compared with $1.19M for Novato as a whole.
Are home prices in Central Novato rising or falling?
The median home price in Central Novato, Novato is up about 4.4% over the past 12 months, from $987.74k to $1.03M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Central Novato?
Schools serving Central Novato, Novato include Lu Sutton Elementary (2.0/5), Olive Elementary (2.9/5), Rancho Elementary (3.5/5), San Ramon Elementary (3.6/5) and Sinaloa Middle (3.6/5). 2 more schools are listed in the Schools section on this page.
What is the weather like in Central Novato?
Central Novato, Novato receives 79% of its possible sunshine, 5th of 7 in Novato. Summer days run 52° to 81°F and winter days 40° to 58°F, August is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 30 inches a year.
Is Central Novato walkable to shops and restaurants?
Central Novato, Novato scores 3.0 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 3.5 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.4 out of 5, 2nd of 7 in Novato.
What is Central Novato known for?
Central Novato, Novato is associated with Everyday Convenience, Walkable Errands and Mixed Condition Streets.
How does Central Novato compare to other Novato neighborhoods?
Central Novato ranks 6th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato. It ranks 4th of 7 in Novato for schools (3.3/5) and scores lowest on safety (1.8/5). The next-ranked neighborhoods in Novato are Midwest Novato.
What are the downsides of living in Central Novato?
Central Novato, Novato scores lowest on safety (1.8/5) and nearby merchants (3.0/5).
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