Kentfield is located at the lower portion of Mt. Tamalpais, situated between two mountain ranges and bordered by Ross and Larkspur. This area provides top quality hiking and biking trails and spectacular views that only a valley city can provide. Kentfield offers a mild climate, even when it is foggy in nearby areas, Kentfield will generally be sunny and a bit warmer. Kentfield is an upper middle-class to wealthy community that offers the opportunity to enjoy nature and community togetherness. The homes have a country setting, nestled among pine, redwood, and manzanita with large lots, houses set back from the road, and low profile roofs. Many of the residences are large estate-size homes. Kent Woodlands is a sought-after prestigious neighborhood of ranch, Mediterranean and colonial estates with an active property owners association.
Kentfield is named after Albert Kent, a wealthy Chicago meat packer who, along with his wife Adaline, settled in the area in 1872. Adaline donated 23 acres of land for a community recreation center that later became the site for the College of Marin, which is part of the California Community College system. The College has been providing exceptional educational opportunities since 1926. Each semester about 8,000 students are enrolled in over 1,100 credit classes and nearly 6,000 students take advantage of the College's many outstanding community education classes. In keeping with family tradition, Albert and Adaline's son William, who became a U.S. congressman and a conservationist, donated Muir Woods as a national park. Thought of as a separate town, Kentfield is actually an unincorporated area of Larkspur, governed by the County Board of Supervisors, and shares utilities and many public services with the Twin Cities of Corte Madera and Larkspur.
Kentfield does have its own school district and is ranked in the 99th percentile, the highest in the state. The Kentfield Schools Foundation is a group of parents and community members who volunteer their time and efforts for fundraising activities to support basic programs and fund additional programs that foster excellence in education. With its central location, Kentfield residents have access to a full range of nearby shopping and recreational opportunities. The four major shopping areas (Bon Air Center, Village at Corte Madera, Corte Madera Town Center and Larkspur Landing) are minutes away and one can find all types of stores, from nationally known chains to locally owned boutiques. Kentfield is close to Mt. Tamalpais, with miles of hiking and biking trails, and also is quick access to the many parks located throughout Marin County.
