San Anselmo, CA: Where Community, Nature, and Character Come Together

Welcome to San Anselmo, California—a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Marin County that embodies small-town charm, natural beauty, and a vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re seeking a serene place to raise a family, a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the Bay Area, or a historically rich town with high-end homes and walkable neighborhoods, San Anselmo offers a lifestyle that feels both grounded and elevated.

Explore the interactive search map above to discover the diverse range of homes available—from classic California cottages and storybook Tudors to grand estates perched on tree-lined hills. San Anselmo real estate invites you to invest in a way of life defined by connection, creativity, and access to the best of Northern California.

The San Anselmo Lifestyle: Small-Town Heart, Big Personality

San Anselmo offers a rare mix of unpretentious warmth and quiet sophistication. Locals cherish the town’s historic downtown, where tree-lined streets are dotted with independent shops, cozy cafés, galleries, and locally owned restaurants. Whether you’re browsing a vintage bookshop, enjoying live music at Creek Park, or catching up with a neighbor over a fresh pastry, everyday life in San Anselmo is filled with meaningful moments and community connection.

The town is also known for hosting year-round events, including art and wine festivals, seasonal fairs, and a beloved farmers’ market that draws residents from across Marin. With its charming setting and active social calendar, San Anselmo is more than just a beautiful place—it’s a place where people truly live.

Real Estate in San Anselmo: Distinctive Homes in a Timeless Setting

San Anselmo real estate is as diverse and inviting as the community itself. From historic homes with original woodwork and vintage charm to modern retreats with state-of-the-art finishes, the housing stock here offers something for every type of buyer.

Popular home styles include:

• Craftsman bungalows

• Mediterranean villas

• Mid-century modern homes

• Custom hillside estates

• Storybook Tudors and English cottages

Many properties feature lush gardens, wraparound porches, views of Mt. Tamalpais, and walkable proximity to downtown shops and schools. San Anselmo also offers more secluded hillside homes for those seeking privacy, space, and spectacular panoramas.

With limited inventory and high demand, homes in San Anselmo are considered valuable long-term assets. Whether you’re looking for a forever home or an income-generating property, the town offers both charm and real estate security in a highly desirable market.

The Neighborhoods of San Anselmo

While San Anselmo isn’t large, its neighborhoods offer varied atmospheres, each with unique appeal:

• Downtown San Anselmo: Walkable, vibrant, and filled with historic charm. Ideal for those who want easy access to cafés, boutiques, and local events.

• Sleepy Hollow: One of Marin’s most sought-after neighborhoods, offering larger lots, quiet streets, and a strong family-oriented community.

• Morningside and Seminary Area: Tree-lined streets, classic homes, and quick access to trails and parks.

• Hawthorne Hills and Hillside Properties: Elevated homes with commanding views, perfect for buyers seeking privacy and outdoor space.

Each neighborhood has its own rhythm and charm, making it easy to find a pocket of San Anselmo that feels like home.

Outdoor Living and Nature in San Anselmo

San Anselmo is a haven for nature lovers. The town is surrounded by open space preserves, wooded trails, and panoramic views of Northern California’s rugged beauty. Whether you enjoy early morning hikes or weekend cycling trips, the area offers unmatched access to the outdoors.

Highlights include:

• Phoenix Lake: A popular spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying scenic views of the Ross Valley watershed.

• Robson-Harrington Park: A peaceful park right in town with rose gardens, community events, and shaded picnic areas.

• Mt. Tamalpais State Park: Just minutes away, it provides access to miles of coastal trails and panoramic viewpoints.

Residents of San Anselmo live close to nature without sacrificing convenience—making it an ideal place for those seeking a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Schools and Education in San Anselmo

Families are drawn to San Anselmo for its top-tier schools, which are consistently ranked among the best in Marin County and the state of California.

Public schools in the area are served by:

• Ross Valley School District

• Tamalpais Union High School District

Top-rated local options include:

• Brookside Elementary School

• White Hill Middle School

• Archie Williams High School (formerly Sir Francis Drake High School)

Several respected private schools are also within a short drive, including:

• Marin Catholic High School

• San Domenico School

• The Branson School

These strong educational options, paired with the town’s close-knit, supportive community, make San Anselmo a premier destination for families.

Investment Potential in San Anselmo

While San Anselmo is known for its community feel and residential atmosphere, it also presents strong investment potential due to limited housing supply and high demand.

Investment opportunities include:

• Long-term rentals for families seeking access to top schools

• Renovation potential in older homes with character

• Luxury flips in desirable neighborhoods like Sleepy Hollow

• Short-term rentals with proximity to trails, wineries, and San Francisco

Buyers looking for long-term appreciation and lifestyle value will find San Anselmo’s real estate market both stable and prestigious.

Proximity and Commute: Quiet Living Near San Francisco

Though San Anselmo offers a peaceful, small-town setting, it’s conveniently connected to the greater Bay Area:

• 30 minutes to San Francisco via Golden Gate Bridge

• 20 minutes to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal

• 10 minutes to Highway 101

• 20 minutes to Sonoma wine country

For remote workers, families, and commuters alike, San Anselmo offers quiet living without losing access to city amenities, professional opportunities, and regional travel.

Embracing a High Quality of Life

San Anselmo isn’t just a place you move to—it’s a place you grow into. Here, the rhythms of everyday life are slower, the smiles are more frequent, and community means more than just a shared ZIP code. Whether you’re enjoying live music downtown, hiking the hills at sunrise, or chatting with neighbors at the weekend farmers market, San Anselmo invites you to live with purpose, creativity, and connection.

For those looking to plant deep roots in a town that values art, nature, family, and history, San Anselmo is the perfect place to call home.

Ready to Explore San Anselmo, CA Real Estate?

If you’re ready to experience the magic of Marin County living, San Anselmo offers an unmatched combination of charm, location, and lifestyle. Whether you’re relocating, investing, or searching for a place to grow your family, there’s no better guide than someone who knows the town inside and out.

Contact Matthew Martinez and Diamond Real Estate Group today to schedule a showing, learn more about available properties, or begin your journey to owning a piece of San Anselmo.

20 Frequently Asked Questions About San Anselmo, CA

1. Where is San Anselmo, CA located?
San Anselmo is located in central Marin County, just north of San Francisco and adjacent to the towns of Ross and Fairfax.

2. What is San Anselmo known for?
San Anselmo is known for its charming downtown, antique shops, strong community feel, excellent schools, and proximity to outdoor recreation like hiking and biking.

3. Is San Anselmo a good place to live?
Yes, San Anselmo is considered one of the best places to live in Marin County due to its safe neighborhoods, scenic surroundings, and highly rated schools.

4. What types of homes are available in San Anselmo?
You’ll find a variety of home styles including Craftsman bungalows, Mediterranean villas, mid-century homes, custom hillside estates, and storybook cottages.

5. What are the most popular neighborhoods in San Anselmo?
Top neighborhoods include Sleepy Hollow, the Seminary area, Morningside, and the downtown core near San Anselmo Avenue.

6. How is the real estate market in San Anselmo?
San Anselmo has a competitive, high-demand real estate market. Homes often sell quickly and receive multiple offers, especially those in family-friendly areas.

7. What is the average home price in San Anselmo?
The average home price typically ranges from $1.2 million to $3 million or more, depending on location, lot size, and amenities.

8. Are there any new construction homes in San Anselmo?
New construction is limited due to the town’s size and preservation goals, but some custom homes and remodels occasionally come on the market.

9. Are there good schools in San Anselmo?
Yes. The Ross Valley School District and Tamalpais Union High School District are both highly rated. Private school options are also nearby.

10. Is San Anselmo safe?
Yes. San Anselmo has a very low crime rate and is considered one of the safest towns in Marin County.

11. Can I walk to shops and restaurants in San Anselmo?
Many parts of San Anselmo, especially near downtown, are very walkable and close to restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques.

12. What is there to do in San Anselmo?
Residents enjoy art festivals, live music in Creek Park, hiking at Phoenix Lake, shopping downtown, and frequent community events.

13. How far is San Anselmo from San Francisco?
San Anselmo is about 30 minutes by car from San Francisco, depending on traffic, and also accessible via the Larkspur Ferry and public transit.

14. Are there outdoor activities in San Anselmo?
Yes, including hiking, biking, dog walking, and access to parks like Robson-Harrington and nearby Mount Tamalpais trails.

15. What kind of community events are held in San Anselmo?
Events include farmers’ markets, art and wine festivals, holiday parades, movie nights in the park, and live music events.

16. Is San Anselmo good for families?
Yes. Families love San Anselmo for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, family-friendly activities, and welcoming atmosphere.

17. Can I find rental properties in San Anselmo?
Rental properties are available but limited. Most are single-family homes or in-law units, and they tend to lease quickly.

18. Are there opportunities for real estate investment in San Anselmo?
Yes, due to high demand and limited supply, San Anselmo real estate offers long-term appreciation and solid rental income potential.

19. Can I build or remodel in San Anselmo?
You can, but it often requires navigating local zoning and historical preservation guidelines. Working with a local architect or builder is recommended.

20. Why should I buy a home in San Anselmo?
Buying a home in San Anselmo means enjoying a high quality of life in a close-knit, scenic town with strong schools, beautiful homes, and easy Bay Area access.