Forests and mountain views just north of San Francisco
Set 12 miles north of San Francisco, unincorporated Tamalpais-Homestead Valley is a collection of family-oriented communities and protected redwood forests. “A lot of San Francisco couples move up this way when starting families because of the great schools and huge amount of open space,” says Bernard Link, an experienced Realtor with Compass. Tamalpais-Homestead Valley’s hillside estates enjoy views of Mount Tamalpais and the Muir Woods National Forest while remaining close to local shops and restaurants. “You’re in a tiny little community, but Downtown Mill Valley and San Francisco are still close by on Highway 101.”
Tamalpais Valley neighborhood seamlessly blends the tranquility of nature.
Highway 101 serves as a major route through Northern California's landscapes.
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Historic hillside homes
Tamalpais-Homestead Valley’s median home price is $1.7 million, compared to San Francisco's $1.4 million. Most homes were built in the first half of the 20th century in a variety of architectural styles. “There are no real developments here because each home has to be built into the hilly terrain,” says Link. “Each house is unique and eclectic because the topography is unique and eclectic.” In Homestead Valley, Craftsman bungalows and Colonial Revival homes are prevalent in the neighborhood’s tree-studded hillsides. Midcentury modern and ranch-style homes are more common in Tamalpais Valley and Almonte.
The hilly terrain that makes Tamalpais-Homestead Valley’s homes so eclectic also lends the area a nearly perfect climate, says Link. “There are all these microclimates because of Richardson Bay and the Marin Hills. There are almost no freezing days during the winter, and the temperature hovers around the 50s and low 80s all year,” Link explains. “A lot of homes don’t even need air conditioning. People only get it if they really, really want it.”
The modern homes in Tamplais-Homestead Valley offer stunning views and open layouts.
Spacious two-story homes in Tamplais-Homestead Valley blend comfort with nature.
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Redwood forest, mountain trails and beaches nearby
Set within the 82,000-acre Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Tamalpais-Homestead Valley is engulfed by the Marin Hills' redwood forests. “There’s an absolute abundance of hiking and mountain biking trails, with tons of inclines, beautiful trees and mountain views,” Link says. The Muir Woods National Forest sits just northeast of the area and is home to old-growth redwoods, some of which are the tallest trees in the world. The 25,000-acre Mount Tamalpais State Park branches off the forest, its rocky hills and myriad trails offering scenic views of surrounding valleys. Muir Beach and Stinson Beach are also at most a 10-mile hike away. Mill Valley’s Dipsea Race attracts hundreds to race from the neighboring town to Muir Beach at the end of the spring season.
Dias Ridge trailhead is not far from Tamplais-Homestead Valley.
Homestead Valley is also close go Muir Woods, a historic monument popular with tourists.
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Highly rated Marin County schools
Two of Marin County's highest-rated school districts serve local children. The Mill Valley School District earns an A from Niche and serves kindergarten through Grade 8. Students can continue to the A-plus-rated Tamalpais Union High School District, which includes the A-rated Tamalpais High, which publishes a Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Crown-winning magazine, Tam News.
Mill Valley Middle School sits next to open space and the Mill Valley Community Center.
Tamalpais High School overview in Marin County.
Tamalpais Valley Elementary School is dedicated to providing an enjoyable education.
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Downtown Mill Valley and Tam Junction
Tamalpais-Homestead Valley enjoys proximity to two shopping districts, each offering its own unique flair. Just north of Homestead Valley, Downtown Mill Valley is known for its historic architecture, elevated dining scene and great music. For decades, the intimate Sweet Water Music Hall has attracted Classic Rock legends like the Grateful Dead and Sammy Hagar. Nearby grocery stores include Whole Foods and the Mill Valley Market.
According to Link, Tam Junction in Tamalpais Valley is less established and appeals to a younger, more surf-oriented crowd. “There’s some great pizza spots and fish food here, like Hook Fish and their outdoor beer garden,” Link says. “The Good Earth Natural Foods here is also great those looking for for organic grocery options.”
Cozy and inviting, Equator Coffee in Tamplais-Homestead Valley offers a warm, artisanal ambiance.
Shoppers enjoy convenience and selection at the Target store nearby.
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Easy access to Highway 101 and San Francisco
Highway 101 touches the eastern edge of the Tamalpais-Homestead Valley area, running 12 miles south to San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge. Highway 1 also runs through the center of Tamalpais Valley, leading 6 miles west to the Pacific Coast. Marin Transit buses service the communities here, but locals largely rely on cars to get around. The MarinHealth Medical Center is 8 miles north, and the San Francisco International Airport is 24 miles north.
Declining crime figures in the Mill Valley area
The Mill Valley Police Department serves Tamalpais-Homestead Valley. Between 2013 and 2023, the MVPD reported a 74% decline in reported crime incidents within its jurisdiction, which includes Mill Valley, Homestead Valley, Tamalpais Valley and Almonte.
Written By
Fletcher Varnson
Photography Contributed By
Eli Tye
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kevin Kearney,
an experienced agent in this area.
Agents Specializing in Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, CA
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.
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Location, Location, Location! Don't miss this single owner, sun-filled, 2,389sf, 3+ bedroom 2 bath, custom built home on an incredible view double parcel in the Almonte neighbourhood known for ease of commute to SF, Tam Junction living with Whole Earth market, Equator Coffee, Hook Fish and other amenities. A full renovation just completed with timeless treatments in new White Oak hardwood
321 Loring Avenue offers the opportunity to own a New Construction bespoke modern residence with thoughtful design and elevated finishes throughout. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home spans approximately 1,993 +/- SF across three levels and features a flexible floor plan with elevator access to all levels, an attached two car garage, plus a separate dedicated office space. Designed with both style and
Effortless Modern Living in Mill Valley! Extensively updated inside and out, 206 Cardinal Road is a beautifully reimagined 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-level home on a coveted flat lot. The light-filled living and dining areas feature tall open-beam ceilings and skylights, while accordion bi-fold doors open to a wood-tile patio ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining. Engineered hardwood floors
Exceptional quality meets effortless single-level living at this newly constructed 2026 residence in Mill Valley's desirable Almonte neighborhood. Set on a 15,694 sq. ft. lot, the 3,527 sq. ft. home offers 5 bedrooms, each with an en suite bath, plus a powder room. A thoughtfully designed two-wing floor plan separates private bedroom spaces from the main living areas, while 12-foot ceilings,
Location, Location, Location! Don't miss this single owner, sun-filled, 2,389sf, 3+ bedroom 2 bath, custom built home on an incredible view double parcel in the Almonte neighbourhood known for ease of commute to SF, Tam Junction living with Whole Earth market, Equator Coffee, Hook Fish and other amenities. A full renovation just completed with timeless treatments in new White Oak hardwood
Steps to the Dipsea and Mount Tam trails, with treehouse living in modern architecture under the redwood canopy. Income-producing Guest House, Home Office, Gym, or Music Studio, just 30 minutes to SF! Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Tam among dozens of redwoods, 655 Edgewood is the house people picture when they imagine leaving the city: held in the trees, with world-class trails out the front
Peaceful view lot located on Shoreline Highway near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The property backs up to an established neighborhood on Lattie Lane. Utilities are confirmed in the appraisal. Subject lot has easement access to Shoreline Highway. A current appraisal supporting the list price is on hand from U.S. Bank. Please 1. View disclosures, 2. Drive by, then 3. call listing
MILL VALLEY ... For-Sale ... Mixed-Use Building ... Quaint, Tudor-Style Building with wonderful curb-appeal and good rent history – 6-miles to Muir Beach and less than a mile to Tam Junction. First time on the market since 1984 – this has been a terrific, family-managed rental property for the sellers and now it is time to pass it on to a new generation of owners. Excellent condition –
321 Loring Avenue offers the opportunity to own a New Construction bespoke modern residence with thoughtful design and elevated finishes throughout. This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home spans approximately 1,993 +/- SF across three levels and features a flexible floor plan with elevator access to all levels, an attached two car garage, plus a separate dedicated office space. Designed with both style and
Effortless Modern Living in Mill Valley! Extensively updated inside and out, 206 Cardinal Road is a beautifully reimagined 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-level home on a coveted flat lot. The light-filled living and dining areas feature tall open-beam ceilings and skylights, while accordion bi-fold doors open to a wood-tile patio ideal for outdoor dining and entertaining. Engineered hardwood floors
Delightful contemporary townhome in one of Mill Valley's most sought-after locations! This spacious, turnkey home is situated just moments from the energy of Tam Junction, with easy access to San Francisco, the coast, world-class hiking and biking trails, and of course, top-rated schools. Inside, soaring ceilings welcome you in as expansive windows filter natural light into the thoughtfully
Development Opportunity in Mill Valley! Bring your vision and create a custom home in one of Marin's most desirable locations. This 10,364 sq. ft. lot (per tax records) sits in the hills above Tamalpais Valley, directly adjacent to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and convenience. Just 3.1 miles from Hwy 101 and minutes from Tam Junction, you're
A rare opportunity to own a charming piece of Mill Valley with beautiful views and endless possibilities for creating your ideal home. Built in 1966, this inviting 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence offers a wonderful foundation for those looking to embrace its original character, update it to their own style, or explore the potential of a future transformation. Set in the desirable Tamalpais Valley,
This special home combines a central location, water views, lush gardens, and direct access to hiking trails, offering the perfect base for the Marin lifestyle. The spacious living room has a fireplace, soaring ceilings and sweeping views of Richardson Bay, Angel Island, The Bay Bridge and peekaboo views of the city. The dining area flows into an open kitchen with a peninsula for casual meals and
Reborn after a fire and rebuilt with care, this home is now a modern sanctuary filled with warmth, character, and light. The vaulted wood ceilings create an airy, inviting atmosphere, while walls of windows bring the outdoors in. Step onto the oversized balcony and take in the sweeping views, morning coffee has never looked better. Inside, the gourmet kitchen shines with a huge island, brand new
The advertised rate of $13,959/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 25, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $13,959/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of May 25, 2027.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Great studio with views in the heart of the Almonte neighborhood. Very close to Good Earth Grocery store.Equator coffee/Tam Junction and public transportation-quick access to 101 freeway,Assigned carport parking. Storage included.Access to beautiful outdoor space and garden.There are new appliances,new flooring throughout,and new paint.Washer/Dryer in unit. Breakfast nook.
Enjoy spectacular Mt. Tam views from this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath single story home with a versatile bonus room, nestled in the peaceful hills of Mill Valley. Filled with natural light and surrounded by lush greenery, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and the indoor-outdoor lifestyle that makes Mill Valley so desirable.The spacious living room features
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