Northwest Novato, Novato, CA
At a glance
Northwest Novato is ranked #4 of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall score of 3.5/5. Its standout factors are public spaces (4.5/5) and schools (3.8/5, 1st of 7 in Novato), at a median home price of $1.05M. The trade-offs are nearby merchants (1.1/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5), though prices run about 11% below the Novato median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Northwest Novato stretches into the hills near Mt. Burdell Preserve, offering a more secluded, nature-focused setting. Homes here are tucked into winding hillside streets and often enjoy larger lots, scenic views, and a slower pace. Architecture varies, with many homes dating from the 1970s to 1990s, along with custom-built properties scattered near the preserve’s edge. Outdoor lovers will appreciate immediate access to the Mt. Burdell and Olompali trail networks - some of the best hiking in Novato. Despite the rustic feel, you're still within a 10-minute drive to Trader Joe’s, schools, and downtown Novato. What holds this area back is curb appeal in some pockets - homes are well spaced but not always consistently maintained, and some streets lack sidewalks or lighting. Still, for those wanting proximity to nature without being too far off the grid, Northwest Novato delivers.
Top Neighborhoods in Novato, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants1.1
Public Spaces4.5
Curb Appeal3
Overall Amenities score: 3.2
Neighborhood Weather
Neighborhood Photos
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Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Ramon Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Sinaloa Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| 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
Northwest Novato FAQs10 answers
Is Northwest Novato a good place to live?
Northwest Novato ranks 4th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall Houseberry score of 3.5 out of 5. Its strongest factors are public spaces (4.5/5) and schools (3.8/5). The trade-offs are nearby merchants (1.1/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5).
Is Northwest Novato safe?
Northwest Novato, Novato scores 3.4 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 4th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato.
What do homes in Northwest Novato cost?
The median home price in Northwest Novato, Novato is $1.05M, compared with $1.19M for Novato as a whole.
Are home prices in Northwest Novato rising or falling?
The median home price in Northwest Novato, Novato is down about 4.7% over the past 12 months, from $1.1M to $1.05M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve Northwest Novato?
Schools serving Northwest Novato, Novato include San Ramon Elementary (3.6/5), Sinaloa Middle (3.6/5) and San Marin High (4.0/5).
What is the weather like in Northwest Novato?
Northwest Novato, Novato receives 79% of its possible sunshine, 4th of 7 in Novato. Summer days run 52° to 82°F and winter days 41° to 58°F, August is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 38 inches a year.
Is Northwest Novato walkable to shops and restaurants?
Northwest Novato, Novato scores 1.1 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 4.5 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.2 out of 5, 5th of 7 in Novato.
What is Northwest Novato known for?
Northwest Novato, Novato is associated with Secluded Hillside, Trail Access and Peaceful Retreat. Its highest-scoring factor is public spaces (4.5/5).
How does Northwest Novato compare to other Novato neighborhoods?
Northwest Novato ranks 4th of 7 neighborhoods in Novato. It ranks 1st of 7 in Novato for schools (3.8/5) and scores lowest on nearby merchants (1.1/5). The next-ranked neighborhoods in Novato are Southwest Novato and Central Novato.
What are the downsides of living in Northwest Novato?
Northwest Novato, Novato scores lowest on nearby merchants (1.1/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5).
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