148 movers in Novato
Wrapid-Up Moving
"Hired [NAME EDIT] and his "company", Wrapid Up Moving and they destroyed so many of my belongings and lied to my face about it. They didn't bring enough packing materials and Angel took long breaks to "get materials" but he was just getting fast f..."
Emerald Moving & Storage
"PLEASE.. PLEASE.. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A MOVING COMPANY PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY!! They do not hold their end of the deal at all. I moved from Washington to Michigan and the night prior to my delivery date they were in Kentucky well the d..."
Ron Ron Moving Co.
"The worst moving company I have ever worked with. They are late for 3 hours. They broken one chair, bed frame and TV. And It seems they blocked my number."
Muscles for Moving
"Hi. Muscles for moving stole all my stuff. I contacted BBB. And they did nothing. I had things over 30 years and some where when I was a kid. My mother was there paid them my money. TI them. Someone said it be nice to tip there. The owner lie abou..."
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.
