A Buyer’s Guide to Marin County Schools and School Districts

For many homebuyers, schools are one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing where to live — and Marin County consistently ranks among the top places in California for education. With strong academics, student-centered programs, and safe, community-minded neighborhoods, Marin’s school districts play a major role in driving local real estate demand.

Here’s a clear guide to help buyers understand Marin County’s school landscape and how it affects homebuying decisions.

1. Why Schools Matter for Homebuyers in Marin

Even buyers without children prioritize good school districts because they strongly support:

• Higher property values

• More stable neighborhoods

• Increased long-term demand for homes

In Marin, school quality often correlates directly with home prices and competition.

2. Overview of Marin County’s Top School Districts

Mill Valley School District

One of the most sought-after districts in Marin, known for:

• Strong academics

• Excellent elementary and middle schools

• Walkable, family-friendly neighborhoods

Families often move to Mill Valley specifically for the schools.

Tamalpais Union High School District

Serving multiple communities including Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, Fairfax, and San Anselmo, this district offers:

• Highly rated high schools

• Strong college-prep programs

• A wide range of extracurricular activities

This is one of the most influential districts in Marin for buyers who want top-tier high schools.

Reed Union School District (Tiburon & Belvedere)

Known for:

• Small class sizes

• Strong community involvement

• High-performing elementary schools

Homes in Tiburon and Belvedere remain in high demand partly due to this district’s reputation.

Ross School District

Centered around the town of Ross, this district features:

• One K–8 school

• Exceptional performance rankings

• A tight-knit, affluent community

It’s one of the smallest but most highly regarded districts in Marin.

Kentfield School District

Serving Kentfield and Greenbrae, this district is known for:

• High academic performance

• Strong parent involvement

• A calm suburban feel with easy access to San Francisco

It’s a top choice for buyers wanting great schools outside the more tourist-heavy towns.

San Rafael City Schools

The largest district in Marin, offering:

• A diverse student population

• Many language and arts programs

• Access to top-rated specialized academies

San Rafael appeals to buyers seeking value within the county.

Novato Unified School District

Located on the northern end of Marin, Novato’s district features:

• A mix of top-performing and emerging schools

• More affordability compared to southern Marin

• Strong community programs

This district is ideal for buyers wanting more space and budget-friendly options.

3. How School Boundaries Affect Home Buying

In Marin, school boundaries are extremely important.Buying just one block over can place a home in a different district entirely.

Buyers should:

• Check official district maps

• Verify school assignments with the district

• Confirm availability, since some schools have enrollment limits

This can directly influence home prices and resale value.

4. Private and Independent School Options

Marin also offers excellent private schools including:

• Marin Country Day School

• Marin Catholic High School

• Branson School

• Mark Day School

• Mount Tamalpais School

Many families choose Marin for the variety of both public and private education paths.

5. What Buyers Should Prioritize

When evaluating schools as part of your home search, consider:

• Academic rankings

• Distance and commute time

• Class size

• Student support services

• Extracurricular and STEM programs

• Community feedback

• Future resale value

A great district isn’t just about today — it also protects your investment long-term.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Marin County’s school districts is essential for making an informed homebuying decision. With strong public schools, supportive communities, and reputable private options, it’s no surprise that education continues to be a major driver of Marin real estate demand.