Pros and Cons of Living in Point Reyes Station and Inverness in California
If you’re thinking about moving to Point Reyes, you’ve probably come across the two main residential areas: Point Reyes Station and Inverness. Both are beautiful, both are peaceful—but they’re not the same. So let’s talk about the pros and cons of living in each.
Point Reyes Station
Pro #1: Walkability
If you’re moving to Point Reyes and want to be close to a few things—coffee, the market, maybe a bakery—you’ll want to be here. Point Reyes Station is the town where you can walk to restaurants, shops, and services, depending on how close your house is to downtown. The Bovine Bakery makes the most amazing morning buns and if you can walk there, that would be amazing.
Pro #2: Community energy
For a rural area, it still feels lively. People come together on weekends, there’s a farmers market, and the town has a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. The farmers market takes place at Toby’s Feed Barn every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and runs from May through September.
Pro #3: Convenience—for the area
If you live in Point Reyes, you’re closer to Highway 1, and the drive to Petaluma or San Rafael is a little shorter than from Inverness. That matters when you’re doing regular trips for groceries or appointments.
Con #1: Limited housing and high prices
Inventory is extremely low, and homes start around $1.4 million. And because it’s a tiny area, competition can be intense when something good hits the market.
Con #2: Tourists
If you’re moving to Point Reyes to get away from it all, keep in mind that Point Reyes Station can get busy—especially on weekends and holidays. Tourists come for the food, the hiking trails, and the coastal views, so expect more foot traffic and limited parking during peak times.
Inverness
Pro #1: Privacy
If you’ve been dreaming of a home surrounded by trees and tranquility, Inverness might be the place for you. Houses are tucked into the hillsides, often offering forest or bay views, and the overall feeling is one of calm and seclusion.
Pro #2: Character
Homes in Inverness often have distinctive character—think cozy cabins, mid-century modern architecture, and an abundance of wood and glass. Many come with interesting backstories, and there’s nothing cookie-cutter about them.
Pro #3: Quick Access to Beaches and Trails
One of the best things about living in Inverness is how close you are to the Point Reyes Peninsula. You’re just a short drive from some of the most stunning coastal and bay beaches in the region—like Drakes Beach, Limantour, and Shell Beach. Whether you're headed out for a quick beach walk, a picnic by the bay, or a hike along the cliffs near Chimney Rock, it's all right there. This kind of easy access to both ocean and bay makes Inverness feel like a true gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore.
Con #1: Steep, narrow roads
If you’re not used to rural driving, the roads in Inverness might be an adjustment. Some homes are up switchbacks or tucked down gravel driveways.
Con #2: Even fewer services than Point Reyes
Inverness has a tiny store and post office, but for pretty much everything, you’ll need to head to Point Reyes Station or beyond. There are a few restaurants, but no gas station. The Inverness Park Market is close by and has a deli, picnic supplies, coffee, and a tap room and restaurant.
Con #3: Fog and shade.
Depending on where you are in Inverness, and especially if you end up on the north end of town, you might get a lot of fog and tree cover. Great for cozy vibes, but not ideal if you’re craving sunshine. But, if you find a home high enough up in the mountains, you may be above the fog line. If you manage that, you will sometimes get to enjoy the sun when the rest of town is blanketed in fog.
So—if you’re moving to Point Reyes and trying to decide between these two, here’s the summary:
Choose Point Reyes Station if you want walkability, access to the few local amenities, and a little more activity.
Choose Inverness if you want privacy, homes with character, and easier access to beaches.
If you’re seriously considering moving to Point Reyes and want help navigating what’s available—or even just figuring out what’s realistic for your lifestyle—feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to help you sort through it.
