2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Novato, CA vs San Francisco, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in San Francisco older or younger than people in Novato?
- The Median Age in San Francisco is 9.4 years younger than in Novato.

Are housing costs cheaper in San Francisco or Novato?
- San Francisco housing costs are 17.6% more expensive than Novato housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, San Francisco or Novato?
- The average commute for residents of San Francisco is 0.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Novato.

Things to do in Novato?
Novato, California is located in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Novato is home to nearly 56,000 people and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve and the Novato Arts Center for its art galleries, plays, and music events. Novato also boasts several shopping destinations in addition to top-notch schools, hospitals and services. With its combination of small-town charm, big-city amenities and access to pristine natural beauty, Novato provides an excellent place to call home.

Things to do in San Francisco?
San Francisco, California is a vibrant city with something for everyone. From its iconic Golden Gate Bridge to bustling commercial and shopping districts, visitors can enjoy an array of attractions from all regions of the world. Take in stunning views from Twin Peaks or explore Fisherman's Wharf for a taste of local culture. Music lovers will find plenty to explore in this musically diverse city as well with countless venues and concert halls hosting national acts. With its unique neighborhoods and natural beauty, San Francisco is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

 Novato, CASan Francisco, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock865,933329,725,481
 Median Income$107,975  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock38.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,052,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time32.59  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Novato    9 Reviews

Lush hills, hiking trails, and easy access to both wine country and San Francisco. We love it here.  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

Novato is a family oriented community located about 20 miles north of the Golden Gate bridge. The quality of life is excellent here assuming your job pays you enough to  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

We recently moved to a secluded neighborhood in Novato after 25 years in central Marin. While there are fewer restaurants and galleries, we are very pleased with our  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Novato

Reviews for San Francisco    149 Reviews

from a single guy's perspective. let's start this review from 2017. I moved here to be near to my sister who also relocated, and also to attend Cal State East Bay in  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in San Francisco for ten years. I thought I would write a balanced review for people looking to move here. My family is from places like Boise, Atlanta,  More

   |    Reply

I've lived in San Francisco for ten years. I thought I would write a balanced review for people looking to move here. My family is from places like Boise, Atlanta,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of San Francisco


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.