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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/3
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.
1/2
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
Michael Annunziata,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
Enchanting English Country Cottage Tucked into a storybook setting on a beautifully landscaped 10,340 sq. ft. garden lot, this enchanting English Country Cottage is a rare blend of timeless architecture, refined design, and natural beauty in one of Mill Valley's most coveted locations. Gray stone patios and winding garden paths create a graceful approach to approximately 1,664 sq. ft. of
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
Picture yourself suspended among the canopy of trees, where nature unfolds in every direction and time seems to slow. Here, mornings arrive with birdsong, golden light, and mystical majestic views of nature's untouched beauty. Afternoons, dance with gentle breezes and aerial wildlife while evenings settle under a romantic dome of celestial moonlit sky. Remember what it feels like to rest deeply,
This updated 5 bedroom. 3 bath and 2 1/2 bath view residence is located on a private lane in Tam Valley. This home is a stunner in one of Mill Valley's most sought-after school districts. It is the ideal family home. Thoughtfully updated indoor-outdoor California living - defined by privacy, abundant natural light, and sweeping views of the valley. Spanning approx. 2,500+ square feet, the home
Turnkey - Move-in Ready - Light Filled Home has a purposeful design for enjoyable living. Extensive remodel over past year, the most significant upgrades center around a reimagined new kitchen & a very spacious primary suite, complemented by new flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, updated trim, hardware, switches, outlets, new doors, & abundant new lighting. The bright redesigned kitchen
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
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
Opportunity, flexibility, and location come together in the heart of Mill Valley. This rare Craftsman triplex presents an ideal setup for investors seeking strong rental income or owner occupants looking to offset their mortgage by living in one unit while generating income from the other two residences. Meticulously maintained, the property showcases timeless Craftsman charm with warmth,
Available for lease $14k Aug 15th. A rare, sun-drenched mid-century retreat set on a 16,600 sqft, double lot with sweeping views across Tam Valley and the surrounding GGNRA ridge lines where privacy, scale, and seamless indoor-outdoor living come together just minutes from the best of Mill Valley. Walls of glass and clean architectural lines invite the outdoors in, creating a warm, light-filled
Rare opportunity to restore or reimagine this charming one-bedroom, one-bath cottage in a peaceful, natural setting. Situated on a generous 7,300 sq. ft. lot, this approximately 850 sq. ft. home is ready for its next chapter. In need of significant updating, it presents an exceptional opportunity for contractors, investors, or buyers with the vision to create a truly special retreat. The existing
This special Laverne home offers a rare blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and convenience, all just minutes from vibrant shops, restaurants, and everyday amenities in idyllic Mill Valley. Set within a peaceful and private setting with sweeping views of open space, rolling hillsides, and lush tree canopies, this residence offers an incredible sense of retreat while remaining closely
Bank Owned! Well Maintained chic Shingled Cottage, Nestled in a Park Like Setting of Camp Talampais. This Charming Home is Move in Ready, Either you are looking for a full-time Residence, Weekend Retreat or Rental Income. Easy access to Scenic Trails and Downtown.
This attached single family home has soaring vaulted ceilings and an open layout that makes the living and dining areas feel bright and spacious, great for everyday living and entertaining. There is a private front patio and an enclosed sunroom in the back with views of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The kitchen has stylish cabinets and connects to a breakfast area that opens to the
Welcome to your Exquisite 1 Bedroom, 1-Bathroom with a tub Rental home in the charming district of Mill Valley, CA. This property offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience the beauty of this vibrant community.Key property features include a spacious 1 -bedroom and well-appointed bathroom, providing a comfortable living
The advertised rate of $2,968/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 2, 2026.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
One of the most unique and charming single-level homes in Tam Valley. Step through the gate into a magical, garden-filled setting with lush landscaping that immediately sets the tone. Inside, a spacious and beautifully appointed living room welcomes you, flowing seamlessly into a formal dining area and an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The kitchen overlooks the side yard and
Available furnished for a June through December 2026 term. Perched in the Mill Valley hills with sweeping views of Mount Tamalpais and the surrounding ridgelines, this fully furnished home is built around its setting, nearly every room frames the green hills beyond, and the indoor-outdoor flow makes the most of all-day light and Marin's mild seasons.The main living level centers on a
Available for lease $14/mo Aug 15th. A rare, sun-drenched mid-century retreat set on a 16,600 sqft, double lot with sweeping views across Tam Valley and the surrounding GGNRA ridge lines where privacy, scale, and seamless indoor-outdoor living come together just minutes from the best of Mill Valley. Walls of glass and clean architectural lines invite the outdoors in, creating a warm, light-filled
Modern In-Law Unit- 1 bedroom 1 bathroom. Tranquil and quiet, nestled in its own private redwood forest, yet bright and close to downtown Mill Valley and near hiking and biking trails. Separate entrance with reserved uncovered off street parking. Hardwood floors throughout. Private deck with views of the redwoods. Stackable washer and dryer in unit. Full modern kitchen with gas range and full
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.
