West Novato, Novato, CA
At a glance
West Novato is ranked #2 of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall score of 3.7/5. Its standout factors are safety (4.4/5, 2nd of 7 in Novato) and public spaces (4.0/5), at a median home price of $1.25M. The trade-offs are nearby merchants (1.3/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5).
Neighborhood Reviews & Questions
West Novato offers a laid-back suburban vibe with spacious lots, wide streets, and easy access to nature. It's one of the quieter parts of the city, with most homes built between the 1960s and 1980s, including a mix of single-level ranch homes and split-level properties. While not flashy, many streets are well-kept, and larger lots add a sense of space and privacy. Outdoor access is a standout here. Indian Valley Preserve, Verissimo Hills Preserve, and O’Hair Park border the neighborhood, offering quick access to hiking and biking trails. San Marin High School is also nearby, anchoring the community and contributing to a more residential, family-oriented atmosphere. The trade-off is a lack of walkable amenities — you’ll need a car to reach shopping or restaurants. But if your priorities are backyard space and trailheads, West Novato checks the right boxes.
Top Neighborhoods in Novato, CA
Neighborhood Amenities
Near good merchants1.3
Public Spaces4
Curb Appeal3
Overall Amenities score: 3.1
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 | |
| Pleasant Valley 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
West Novato FAQs10 answers
Is West Novato a good place to live?
West Novato ranks 2nd of 7 neighborhoods in Novato with an overall Houseberry score of 3.7 out of 5. Its strongest factors are safety (4.4/5) and public spaces (4.0/5). The trade-offs are nearby merchants (1.3/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5).
Is West Novato safe?
West Novato, Novato scores 4.4 out of 5 on Houseberry's Safety Score, ranking 2nd of 7 neighborhoods in Novato.
What do homes in West Novato cost?
The median home price in West Novato, Novato is $1.25M, compared with $1.19M for Novato as a whole.
Are home prices in West Novato rising or falling?
The median home price in West Novato, Novato is up about 36.4% over the past 12 months, from $913.52k to $1.25M. The full 12-month history is charted in the Median Price section on this page.
Which schools serve West Novato?
Schools serving West Novato, Novato include Lu Sutton Elementary (2.0/5), Pleasant Valley Elementary (3.6/5), Sinaloa Middle (3.6/5) and San Marin High (4.0/5).
What is the weather like in West Novato?
West Novato, Novato receives 79% of its possible sunshine, the sunniest of Novato's 7 neighborhoods. Summer days run 52° to 81°F and winter days 41° to 58°F, August is the warmest month and rainfall averages about 34 inches a year.
Is West Novato walkable to shops and restaurants?
West Novato, Novato scores 1.3 out of 5 for nearby merchants and 4.0 out of 5 for public spaces. Its overall amenities score is 3.1 out of 5, 6th of 7 in Novato.
What is West Novato known for?
West Novato, Novato is associated with Trail-Adjacent, Spacious Lots and Suburban Calm. Its highest-scoring factors are safety (4.4/5) and public spaces (4.0/5).
How does West Novato compare to other Novato neighborhoods?
West Novato ranks 2nd of 7 neighborhoods in Novato. It ranks 2nd of 7 in Novato for safety (4.4/5) and scores lowest on nearby merchants (1.3/5). The next-ranked neighborhoods in Novato are Southeast Novato and Northwest Novato.
What are the downsides of living in West Novato?
West Novato, Novato scores lowest on nearby merchants (1.3/5) and curb appeal (3.0/5).
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