Novato, CA
Population 52,689 · California
About Novato, CA
Novato is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 52,689 residents. The median household income is $112,193 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Novato is 47.8 years.
Housing in Novato has a median home value of $1,007,100 and median monthly rent of $2,422. Of the 21,257 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 13,383 owner-occupied and 7,048 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Novato is 6.7% and the poverty rate is 9.0%. 47.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 27.7 minutes.
Cost of Living in Novato, CA
Compared to national averages, Novato has a median household income of $112,193 (49% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,007,100, which is 311% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,422 is 108% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Novato's income is 15% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 54% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Novato, CA?
Novato offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $112,193, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 47.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.0%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,007,100. However, as a mid-sized city, Novato provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Novato has a population of 52,689 with a median age of 47.8 years. Compare Novato with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Novato
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paramount | 52,546 | $70,912 | $500,400 | Compare |
| Placentia | 52,384 | $110,575 | $871,000 | Compare |
| Cathedral City | 52,047 | $67,031 | $420,700 | Compare |
| Watsonville | 51,968 | $74,785 | $657,700 | Compare |
| Huntington Park | 53,658 | $56,952 | $557,600 | Compare |
| Lincoln | 51,629 | $108,108 | $628,500 | Compare |
| Diamond Bar | 53,750 | $106,602 | $867,000 | Compare |
| Colton | 53,798 | $69,581 | $411,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Novato
What is the population of Novato, CA?
The population of Novato, CA is 52,689 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Novato?
The median household income in Novato, CA is $112,193 per year.
What is the median home value in Novato?
The median home value in Novato, CA is $1,007,100.
What is the average rent in Novato?
The median monthly rent in Novato, CA is $2,422.
What is the unemployment rate in Novato?
The unemployment rate in Novato, CA is 6.7%.