West End, San Rafael, CA
At a glance
West End is ranked #7 of 10 neighborhoods in San Rafael with an overall score of 3.1/5. Its standout factors are schools (3.6/5, 2nd of 10 in San Rafael) and curb appeal (3.5/5), at a median home price of $450k. The trade-offs are safety (2.6/5) and public spaces (3.0/5), though prices run about 66% below the San Rafael median.
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
Tucked into the hills just west of downtown, the West End is one of San Rafael’s more hidden residential pockets. The streets are winding and hilly, with older homes that range from early 20th-century cottages to mid-century builds, many surrounded by mature trees and thick vegetation. Despite its quiet, tucked-away feel, the neighborhood has great access to both downtown and the Miracle Mile area, with spots like Pond Farm Brewing and Johnny Doughnuts just minutes away. It’s also close to Red Hill Avenue, which leads directly into San Anselmo. The layout can feel a bit maze-like, and some streets are narrow, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a quiet zone with a real sense of privacy and distance, while still being just a short hop from the urban core.
Top Neighborhoods in San Rafael, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants3.5
Public Spaces3
Curb Appeal3.5
Overall Amenities score: 3.3
Neighborhood Weather
Neighborhood Photos
1 of 2
Schools serving this Neighborhood
| School Name | Type | Grades | Houseberry School Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Valley Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| Wade Thomas Elementary | Primary | K-5 | |
| James B. Davidson Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| White Hill Middle | Middle | 6-8 | |
| San Rafael High | High | 9-12 | |
| Terra Linda High | High | 9-12 | |
| Sir Francis Drake 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
West End FAQs10 answers
Is West End a good place to live?
West End ranks 7th of 10 neighborhoods in San Rafael with an overall Houseberry score of 3.1 out of 5. Its strongest factors are schools (3.6/5) and curb appeal (3.5/5). The trade-offs are safety (2.6/5) and public spaces (3.0/5).
Is West End safe?
West End, San Rafael scores 2.6 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 8th of 10 neighborhoods in San Rafael.
What do homes in West End cost?
The median home price in West End, San Rafael is $450k, compared with $1.32M for San Rafael as a whole.
Are home prices in West End rising or falling?
The median home price in West End, San Rafael is roughly flat over the past 12 months, at $450k against $450k a year earlier. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve West End?
Schools serving West End, San Rafael include Sun Valley Elementary (4.3/5), Wade Thomas Elementary (4.5/5), James B. Davidson Middle (2.7/5), White Hill Middle (4.0/5) and San Rafael High (2.5/5). 2 more schools are listed in the Schools section on this page.
What is the weather like in West End?
West End, San Rafael receives 79% of its possible sunshine, 4th of 10 in San Rafael. Summer days run 53° to 79°F and winter days 42° to 58°F, August is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 40 inches a year.
Is West End walkable to shops and restaurants?
West End, San Rafael scores 3.5 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 3.0 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.3 out of 5, 5th of 10 in San Rafael.
What is West End known for?
West End, San Rafael is associated with Wooded Hillsides, Quiet Streets and Close to Downtown.
How does West End compare to other San Rafael neighborhoods?
West End ranks 7th of 10 neighborhoods in San Rafael. It ranks 2nd of 10 in San Rafael for schools (3.6/5) and scores lowest on safety (2.6/5). The next-ranked neighborhoods in San Rafael are Downtown San Rafael and San Rafael Country Club.
What are the downsides of living in West End?
West End, San Rafael scores lowest on safety (2.6/5) and public spaces (3.0/5).
Neighborhood Photos
1 of 2
Top Neighborhoods in San Rafael, CA
Neighborhood Map
View Full Map
All information provided on this website including but not limited to - school ratings, safety, amenities, user opinions, and property data - is for general informational purposes only. We do not guarantee its reliability, accuracy, or completeness. Users should independently verify information and consult appropriate professionals as needed. By using this website, you agree Houseberry is not responsible for actions, decisions, or consequences arising from reliance on the information provided
houseberry.com - CA DRE# 01847391
Bay East ©2025. CCAR ©2025. bridgeMLS ©2025. Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed. This information is being provided by the Bay East MLS, or CCAR MLS, or bridgeMLS. The listings presented here may or may not be listed by the Broker/Agent operating this website. This information is intended for the personal use of consumers and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Data last updated at August 14, 2026 12:00 AM