Downtown San Rafael, San Rafael, CA
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Key Words:
Historic Core, Walkable, Local Businesses
Downtown San Rafael is the cultural and commercial core of the city, known for its walkability, historic architecture, and strong local identity. Fourth Street anchors the area with an eclectic mix of restaurants, independent shops, bookstores, and cafes that give the neighborhood its distinctly local feel. Residential blocks surrounding downtown are dense and varied—there are older apartment buildings, vintage bungalows, and some newer infill housing. While parking can be tight, many errands can be done on foot, and access to Highway 101 is just a minute away. It’s one of the most vibrant spots in Marin for events and nightlife, thanks to venues like the Rafael Film Center and a calendar full of street fairs and farmers markets. It has a slightly urban energy while still keeping that small-town Marin charm.
Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coleman Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Laurel Dell Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Sun Valley Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| James B. Davidson Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| San Rafael High | High | 9-12 | |
| Terra Linda 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.
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants5.0
Public Spaces3.5
Curb Appeal3
Overall Amenities score: 3.6
Median Price
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