Commute from San Rafael to Downtown San Francisco
Driving wins at 8 AM: about 42 minutes versus 58 by transit.
| Mode | Time at 8 AM | Distance | Typical route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 42 min | 18.3 mi | US-101 S |
| Transit | 58 min | 18.8 mi | — |
Weekday morning peak (Tuesday 8 AM departure), Google Maps traffic data. Times checked August 2026.
See how San Rafael ranks against 9 other areas — best areas for commuting to Downtown San Francisco →
San Rafael carries Marin's commute: the 101 corridor to the Golden Gate, Golden Gate Transit buses, and the SMART train down to the Larkspur ferry.
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