Relocation Guide

Relocation Guide

Relocating to Marin County: The Basics

What’s the population of Marin County?

Marin County’s population is approximately 257,154, with a median age of about 47. It is the smallest of the San Francisco Bay Area counties in size and acreage, although what it lacks in size, it makes up for in the beautiful, untouched wilderness. 

What is the cost of living in Marin County?

California’s cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly in the Bay Area counties. Marin County placed fifth in the market among the Bay Area’s most expensive. As of March 2021, the most recent Marin Report indicated that the prices for a single-family home had risen 37.9% year-over-year. One of the reasons the cost of living is high is because Marin County attracts affluent families, and the county has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state. 

What is the Marin County job market like?

As mentioned, Marin has one of the lowest unemployment rates in California. Since technology is one of the largest economic sectors in the Bay Area, it’s no surprise that most jobs are tech-facing, including software development and IT work. The county has almost completely recovered the jobs lost during the pandemic. As COVID-19 regulations continue to ease, more jobs are expected to return in the tourism, leisure, and hospitality industries. 

Marin County education

One of the many reasons people decide to buy a home in Marin is the excellent school system, both public and private.  Marin public schools are consistently ranked among the top in the country. There are also more than 48 private schools in Marin County which provides a plethora of options for families.

The Marin County Office of Education is an excellent website to learn more about the public school system, district boundaries and more. Another good resource is the California Schools Performance Map.

How do you get around Marin County?

One of the most attractive attributes of Marin County is the excellent range of public transportation options. There are three primary ferries, Sausalito, Larkspur, and Tiburon, from San Francisco and nearby metropolitan areas. Marin also has easily accessible commuter buses with the Golden Gate Transit and SMART train.

What is the weather like in Marin County?

Part of Marin’s appeal is that you get so much of the glorious California sun without the infamous San Francisco fog. There is a climate for everyone in Marin, with some neighborhoods offering a cooler temperature while others feature year-round sunshine.

Marin County Neighborhood Guide

When most people think of Marin, they think of the endless protected parkland and immersive natural beauty flanking virtually every neighborhood. Marin County is an excellent place for families and nature lovers who enjoy adventure and outdoor excursions. But there really is something for everyone here, depending on your lifestyle.

Whether you love spending time shopping, browsing art galleries, fine-dining, or visiting entertainment venues, communities within Marin County offer all of the above and much more. Below are just a few areas I love and I know you will to:

Corte Madera

Known for its idyllic blend of urban convenience and picturesque rural splendor, Corte Madera has a little something for everyone. Widely considered one of Marin County’s most beloved gems, this one-of-a-kind neighborhood has everything from world-class nature reserves and hiking trails to high-end shopping centers and an unbelievable dining scene. 

Larkspur

Just a short drive over the Golden Gate Bridge or a quick ferry ride across the San Francisco Bay, Larkspur offers homeowners an idyllic small-town lifestyle filled with a charming historic atmosphere, welcoming and friendly neighbors, and the perfect blend of suburban serenity and urban convenience that has made this community one of the most desirable around. 

Greenbrae

In the heart of Marin County lies one of the area’s most beloved residential neighborhoods. Known for its unbelievable local views and welcoming community, Greenbrae’s easy commute in and out of San Francisco, makes it easy to see why so many homeowners are choosing to build their homes in this idyllic blend of simple suburban lifestyle and easy urban access.