147 movers in Novato
Robb & Messer
"Hired Ross Messner end Nov 2021. Agent used my Allied Van Lines quote without actually doing personal quote by coming to my apartment. Movers were nice and personable. CA to NV. My problem with the moving day I signed a receipt and no ..."
Belfor Moving
"I had an excellent experience with this company. Despite an oversight on my part they went out of their way to pick up my order when necessary. Delivery occured much sooner than I expected it to and all of my belongings were in the same condition ..."
Sea-Side Movers
"We hired two moving helpers for 2 hours. They were so helpful and really friendly. We had no damage and got the move done very quickly. I highly recommend this company."
Movers Choice
"I had to do a last minute move after the holidays to get me back home to my family. I had a new job opening back in Nashville. I asked around at my office and came across Movers Choice. I had never really heard of them, but my friend had used them..."
Need A Hand Movers
"I hired Jason and his team of conscientious and hard-working guys at Need a Hand Movers twice in the past 6 weeks. I was very impressed with their work ethic and the care they took moving our things to our new home. On both occasions there were di..."
Waters Moving and Storage
"I moved several times with waters and each time I ask for the same movers. Cory and George did. a great. job for me. I have had both of them before and both times they were professional and experienced."
Hauling Moses Moving & Storage
"I thought Moses and Jonathan were just terrific! I had one very heavy item to move (over 300 lbs) and they moved it like it was no big deal! They were right on time, very friendly and helpful and so expedient. Also, I checked around and they had t..."
CareMore Moving and Storage
"These guys are great!! My friend used Caremore a few months ago and told me they were the best movers she has ever used. With that kind of recommendation I had to give them a try. I was not dissapointed. Scott and Dave showed up on time and ev..."
What to know when moving to Novato, CA
Novato at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area with 51.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree and 28.5% of the population renting.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $109,750, making it relatively affluent.
- The Reality Check:
- Median gross rent is $2,168, which could be a significant expense for some.
- Commute:
- Only 3.4% of residents use public transit for commuting.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 22.5 inches of rain annually, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Novato, you'll find a community with a strong educational background, where over half of the residents have a bachelor's degree. The housing market is competitive, with a median home value of $1,094,300, which reflects the area's affluence. While many residents enjoy the benefits of homeownership, nearly 29% are renters, indicating a diverse living arrangement. With a relatively low public transit usage rate, it's advisable to have a car for commuting and getting around.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable rent, as the median gross rent is $2,168.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,168, which may be high for some budgets.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $1,094,300, indicating a robust housing market.
- 51.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, contributing to the area's educated populace.
- The poverty rate stands at 7.4%, which is relatively low.
- Only 3.4% of residents commute via public transit, suggesting a car-dependent area.
- 28.5% of the population are renters, indicating a mix of ownership and rental living.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the property crime rate is 1,764 per 100,000 residents, which is about 14% higher than the national average of 1,547. However, property crime has seen a significant decrease of 26.1% from 2022 to 2025. The violent crime rate is 415.5 per 100,000, which is 27.7% higher than the national average of 325.3, but it has also decreased by 17.4% over the same period.
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100,000 vs. national average of 325.3
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100,000 vs. national average of 1,547
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 44.9% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
Novato has access to three nearby postsecondary institutions, providing educational opportunities within a reasonable distance.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 3
- Dominican University of California in San Rafael
- Presidio Graduate School in San Anselmo
- Meridian University in Petaluma
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Novato experiences an annual precipitation of 22.5 inches, with most of that falling during the winter months. The area enjoys about 53 rainy days a year, so planning for wet weather is essential. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore several local parks for recreation.
- China Camp State Park - 4.7 stars (1,208 reviews)
- Lagoon Park - 4.6 stars (727 reviews)
- McNears Beach Park - 4.6 stars (689 reviews)
- Shollenberger Park - 4.6 stars (540 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Marin County, which includes Novato, the unemployment rate is 4.0%. There are currently 120,106 employed individuals, with a labor force of 125,091.
- Unemployment rate: 4.0% (December 2025)
- Employed: 120,106
- Labor force: 125,091
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
