Why Live in San Anselmo
San Anselmo, CA, is a charming small town in Marin County, known for its rich history and vibrant community. The birthplace of the Star Wars film franchise, San Anselmo has grown since the late 1800s, maintaining its character through local businesses and community events. The town is recognized as the antique capital of Northern California, with San Anselmo Avenue featuring thrift stores, antique galleries, and contemporary boutiques. Dining options include popular spots like Cucina, and residents can shop at the nearby Safeway in Red Hill Shopping Center. The town hosts various events, including the Live on the Avenue music series, Country Fair Day and Parade, an Easter egg hunt, and holiday celebrations. Housing styles range from California cottages and Craftsman bungalows to Mediterranean-style homes, with many properties offering views of Mount Tamalpais. The highly rated Ross Valley Elementary School District serves local students, with Brookside Elementary, White Hill Middle School, and Archie Williams High School providing quality education. Residents enjoy outdoor activities in Sorich Park and Memorial Park, and the town is safer than the national average. San Anselmo's location, about 15 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, offers convenient access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley, with local bus routes connecting to the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit station in San Rafael.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in San Anselmo, CA?
The median rent for a home in San Anselmo, CA is $4,775 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes and townhouses are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in San Anselmo, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in San Anselmo, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $191,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $4,775 per month in San Anselmo, CA, renters typically need to show $14,325 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in San Anselmo, CA?
In San Anselmo, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 29.4, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
There are currently 2 homes available for rent in San Anselmo, CA. The median rent is $4,775 per month, with single-family homes renting at $5,000, townhouses at $18,000 and condos at $2,400.
Number of Homes for Rent
2
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$5,000
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Median Townhouse Rent
$18,000
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