As a Marin County local and a real estate agent who’s helped many families settle into their first (or forever) homes, one of the most common questions I get is: “Is this a good area for kids?”
The short answer? Absolutely.
But I want to take a moment to go beyond the stats and brochures—to share what it feels like to raise kids here, and what I’ve seen firsthand in Marin’s neighborhoods, schools, and parks over the years.
Schools: More Than Just Test Scores
Marin County has some of the top-rated public and private schools in California. With excellent schools throughout Marin County—both public and private—families enjoy access to top-tier education, beautiful parks, and vibrant playgrounds that foster a strong sense of community and connection. But what stands out to me—and to the parents I work with—is the supportive, community-driven culture behind those scores.
Many Marin schools emphasize:
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Small class sizes
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Outdoor learning and enrichment
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Strong parent-teacher collaboration
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Integrated wellness and mindfulness programs
If you're looking for specifics, sites like GreatSchools.org can provide ratings and reviews, but I always encourage families to tour the campuses, talk to teachers and parents, and walk the neighborhoods. There's no substitute for the real feel of a school community.
And if you're considering private education, Marin offers excellent options—Marin Montessori, Branson, Marin Country Day, and others—all with unique philosophies and strong reputations.
Parks: A Natural Extension of the Classroom
One of the best things about growing up (or raising kids) in Marin is that nature is part of everyday life.
We’re lucky to live in a place where parks aren’t just “extras”—they’re essentials. Kids learn to ride bikes at Boyle Park, explore trails in Deer Island Preserve, or spend hours playing tag under the redwoods in Old Mill Park. These aren’t just pretty places—they’re where friendships are formed, imaginations run wild, and parents get a moment to breathe.
A few family favorites:
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Piper Park (Larkspur): Great play structures, large grassy fields, and adjacent to the Corte Madera Creek Path.
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Hal Brown Park (Ross): A local gem with picnic spots, shaded areas, and a thoughtful playground design.
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Marinwood Park (San Rafael): A go-to for community events, summer camps, and open space for kids to roam.
Playgrounds: Where Community Happens
If you’re new to town—or even just exploring a new part of the county—a playground is one of the best ways to meet other families.
Some of the most beloved playgrounds include:
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Boyle Park (Mill Valley): Safe, clean, and ideal for multiple age groups.
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South Hamilton Park (Novato): A splash pad, climbing structures, and plenty of parking—big win for parents.
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Memorial Park (San Anselmo): Big trees for shade, adjacent baseball fields, and a relaxed, neighborly vibe.
My Take as a Local
I grew up here, and now I get to help others build their lives here, too. I know the routes kids take to school. I know which parks flood in the winter and which ones are packed during Little League season. I’ve had coffee with parents at school fundraisers and met clients for open houses just after dropping their kids at preschool.
Marin is more than a beautiful place to live—it’s a place to grow.
If you’re thinking of moving here with your family, or even just curious about what part of Marin might fit your lifestyle best, I’m always happy to chat. Whether it's mapping out school boundaries, comparing parks by neighborhood, or pointing you toward a good preschool, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s find your family’s next home—and your new favorite playground
