$1,304,733Average Value$752Average Price per Sq Ft3Homes For Sale
Where life is a picnic
Contrary to what its name suggests, Picnic Valley wasn’t always such a picnic. As Compass Realtor Megan Pomponio puts it, the area was “not considered desirable for a few decades” thanks to the omnipresence of industrial businesses over residential property. The community has since established itself as a highly sought-after address because of its convenient location, and now, this San Rafael suburb continues to expand its worth as “property values here have really increased,” says Pomponio.
An aerial view of Picnic Valley reveals the harmonious blend of homes and businesses.
Picnic Valley, is a picturesque valley on the outskirts of San Rafael.
1/2
Nostalgic homes with luxurious views
Lush lawns and leafy trees dominate the streets of Picnic Valley, with the flourishing trees canopying the houses that residents turn into homes. Dating back as far as the 1920s, midsize bungalows provide a nostalgic feel while coming into present-day practicality given the updates and renovations taking place. “Picnic Valley’s proximity to Downtown San Rafael,” says Matt Francis of Vanguard Properties. “People really enjoy the location and being so close to everything downtown has to offer is the real pull.” Traditional-style homes flaunt multilevel terraces that come in handy when taking in the cliffside views, and luxury townhouses from the turn of the millennium are available for those interested in a more future-forward residence. Price tags in the area can start around $850,000 for townhouses and reach nearly $2 million for the more historic yet renovated homes.
Homes in Picnic Valley range from traditional single-story homes to modern, cliff-side houses.
There are more modern houses available on the hills in Picnic Valley.
Check out the many home styles of Picnic Valley.
1/3
Parks with notable namesakes
Named for the local writer who shared the stories of the California Gold Rush, the cozy and comfortable Bret Harte Park provides a playground accessible by individuals of all abilities, basketball courts for fans of the sport and a handpainted tile mural completed by neighborhood kids that adds a sense belonging to the play place. On a larger scale, the 11-acre Albert Park houses bocce courts and serves as the home base for league play. Albert Park is also home to the San Rafael Pacifics, the city’s independent Pecos League baseball team. At the San Rafael Community Center, children can sign up for sports lessons, art classes and even LEGO camps which build their STEAM skillsets. Aquatic aficionados can get their kicks along San Rafael Creek, which is always laced with boat slips and yacht marinas. Just east of Picnic Valley and across the freeway, boat slips and yacht marinas line San Rafael Creek.
Albert Park comes alive with people playing baseball in the heart of Picnic Valley.
Joyful sounds fill the air as kids play at Albert Park's playground in Picnic Valley
Bocce ball games bring community fun to Albert Park in Picnic Valley.
1/3
Influence, image and art
Maintaining an influential image is important in Picnic Valley, and two grooming spots are the go-tos. Downtown Barbers is a local stylist for men and boys that keeps them together. Brewer Philips Hair Design gives women creative cuts, colors and styles to keep their confidence boosted. For those into hands-on artmaking, Wabi Pottery Studio offers several introductory pottery classes covering techniques for pottery wheel use, hand building and surface design. Classes run for six weeks at a time. Wabi also hosts a Youth Summer Art Camp that runs for three weeks from June to July. The Bret Harte Community Association also plays a part in fostering neighborhood spirit with events like a summertime art and music stroll, holiday parties and a group garage sale.
Downtown Barbers give men fresh lines ready for the weekend in Picnic Valley.
Special occasions call for a visit to Brewer Phillips Hair Design in Picnic Valley.
Artists at work, molding masterpieces at Wabi Pottery Studio.
1/3
Get cozy at a calming coffee haus
With the 101 Freeway being a hometown hub of businesses and both Downtown San Rafael and the Marin Country Mart so close by, residents can find whatever they need when it comes to shopping and dining. Mi Casa Café is a go-to for simple Mexican cuisine and strong margaritas, and El Lucerito’s menu is filled with authentic Guatemalan dishes. Locals can unwind at Fox & Kit, a calming coffee house with relaxing wicker swing chairs and an onsite playground strictly for adults looking to let their inner child free. There’s also the chance to wind down — or wine down — in the evening with a relaxing beverage at Pete’s 881 Club. For groceries and other essentials, Sprouts Farmers Market is within the community, and Trader Joe’s, Cardenas Markets and Safeway are all nearby.
Relaxation meets coffee Locals unwind at Fox & Kit in Picnic Valley.
Families gather for dinner, creating memories at El Lucerito's in Picnic Valley.
Patrons at Pete's 881 Club enjoy lively conversations and drinks in Picnic Valley.
Sprouts has organic produce in Picnic Valley.
1/4
Where creativity comes alive
As part of the San Rafael City School District, students can attend Laurel Dell Elementary School, which partners with local mentoring organizations like Youth in Arts on arts education, and James B. Davidson Middle School, which offers enrichment activities that include Makers Tech, before San Rafael High School. Stretching across 33 acres, the campus features several state-of-the-art facilities, including multiple computer labs, KSRH radio station and a sprawling sports complex with multiple tennis courts and a championship pool. Niche scores Dell a C-minus, while Davidson has a B-minus and San Rafael has a B.
Laurel Dell Elementary School is located in San Rafael.
James B. Davidson Middles School in Canal has programs that include Drama and Maker's Tech.
San Rafael High School focuses on the higher education of its students.
1/3
The SMART way to go
The 101 Freeway borders the community, breaking off into Interstate 580 at Francisco Boulevard East. Picnic Valley is only 18 miles north of San Francisco where locals can take the Larkspur Ferry to other locations around the East Bay Area. The San Rafael SMART station is another option for those who decide to drop driving around the area.
The neighborhood and Mt Tamalpais are captured beautifully in this aerial shot of Picnic Valley.
Awaiting adventures at San Rafael's SMART station, gateway to Picnic Valley.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Picnic Valley neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Picnic Valley
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Picnic Valley Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Picnic Valley, San Rafael sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Picnic Valley, San Rafael over the last 12 months is $1,317,500, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Rare opportunity to own two homes on one lot in a convenient and versatile setting. The main residence features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms with comfortable living spaces, while the detached ADU offers its own kitchen and bathroom, ideal for guests, extended family, rental income, or a private home office setup. Whether you're looking for multi-generational living, an investment opportunity,
Featuring spectacular views, 111 Altena Street offers two 2-bedroom/1-bath units, perfect for investors seeking cash flow or owner-occupants looking to offset their mortgage with rental income. Seller financing available with a 10-year term and 4-year prepayment penalty. Interest rate and overall terms to be negotiated based on purchase price, down payment, buyer creditworthiness, and financial
Build Your Dream Home with Stunning Bay Views! Rare opportunity to own a hillside lot in desirable San Rafael featuring sweeping views of San Pablo Bay, the San Rafael skyline, and surrounding hills. This downslope parcel offers the chance to create a custom home in a peaceful setting while remaining close to shopping, dining, schools, parks, Highway 101, and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Enjoy
This is a Park Model Home (H&S 18009.3) Brand new 2026 Athens Park Model Home located in the RV Park of San Rafael. This beautifully crafted 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home features cathedral ceilings and modern finishes throughout, creating a bright and open living space. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances and contemporary fixtures, providing both style and functionality. Enjoy
Located in San Rafael's highly desirable Bret Harte neighborhood, this updated single-level ranch home offers an ideal blend of Marin County lifestyle, flexible living space, and income potential. The property features a stylish 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath main residence with hardwood floors throughout, dual-pane windows, recessed lighting, granite countertops with a center island. A standout feature is
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
