Explore Novato local geography, civic resources and voter guides, with dated official population and registration facts for Marin County.
At a glance: Novato is an incorporated city in Marin County. Population: 51,638 (California Department of Finance estimate as of January 1, 2026). Registered voters: 34,675 (California Secretary of State, as of September 4, 2026).
Novato occupies northern Marin County, where broad valleys, oak-covered hills, and bay wetlands create a more expansive setting than the county's southern towns. Downtown, Hamilton, and other neighborhoods reflect different phases of development. Pioneer Park and Miwok Park provide neighborhood recreation and gathering space. The Hamilton area's public facilities and the Novato library branches add further civic destinations across a geographically spread-out city. Novato incorporated on January 20, 1960. It is a general-law city operating under a council-manager system, with municipal administration centered on Machin Avenue.
Hamilton is a neighborhood area within Novato, shaped by reuse of the former military airfield property.
Pioneer Park and Miwok Park are longstanding recreation resources; consult the city for current amenities and reservations.
Use Marin County's jurisdiction guidance and Marin County Elections with your residential address.
34,675 (California Secretary of State, as of September 4, 2026).
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