ROSS

One Of Marin’s Hidden Beauties

Tiny Ross is tucked in between San Anselmo and Kentfield in the middle of Central Marin’s Ross Valley. The town takes its name from James Ross, a Scotsman who came to California during the Gold Rush, made a fortune selling wine in San Francisco, and bought the tract of land where the town now stands in 1857. Among the prominent institutions in town is the Marin Art and Garden Center, a hub for a variety of nonprofit groups. The small downtown, bordering the soccer fields of Ross School, has a grocery store, post office, butcher, florist, a few small cafes and some offices. Ross also features some of the oldest and most exclusive estates in the county, both in the hills and along Shady Lane, the tree-lined road that connects it to neighboring San Anselmo.

What To See

Ross is a small town, not exactly geared toward mass tourism. However, visitors to the community will find downtown Ross Common a charming collection of stores and restaurants, many of which support local merchants and producers.

Weather

Average temperature in Ross is about 59 degrees, with an average maximum temperature of 70 degrees and an average low of 48. From July to September, highs get into the 80s. Ross is inland, so it is warmer and drier than other spots in the county. The average low is around 48 degrees, with the coldest months being November and December.

Housing

This is one of the highest per capita income zip codes in the country. As you’ll see on your driving tour, Ross has many lovely older homes with beautiful grounds. Assume the best are the ones you can’t see. Even tiny cottages in town along main road often go for over $1 million.

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