Co-own real estate report: Russian River Valley, California

Sitting just about two hours away from the hectic life of the San Francisco Bay Area is Russian River Valley, the perfect setting for weekend getaways. Located in California’s Sonoma County, Russian River Valley is the perfect mix of greenery, scenery and a laid-back culture home to many culinary wonders. The Russian River Valley meanders its way through wine country—about 150 miles and 165,000 acres of premium vineyards, to be exact.

With plenty of natural beauty enjoyable year-round, the Russian River Valley is a magnet for visitors. In the summer, swimmers, boaters, sunbathers, and river recreation enthusiasts rejoice. In the fall and winter, wine country events are plentiful at the more than 80 local wineries. Eco-adventures, spa retreats and river activities await amongst majestic redwoods and vineyards.

Learn more about what makes Russian River Valley a top Northern California vacation destination and area to cobuy a second home.

What makes Russian River Valley attractive for co-owning?

Russian River Valley allows visitors to get the best of Sonoma County in a quiet corner of paradise. While it may not be as well known as Sonoma County proper, it has remained a long, sought-after retreat for those in the know. The Russian River Valley is a tranquil retreat with many charming small towns along the river that offer both relaxation and recreation. From shops and restaurants to riverside recreation and wine tastings, Russian River Valley is a perfect retreat in the heart of California’s stunning wine country.

9.3/10 BestPlaces Comfort Index (comfortable year-round climate where 10=best) ☀️

50 years old is the median age in Guerneville 🧍

$599,000 median listing home price 🏡

22.6% home appreciation in the last 12 months 🚀

Information based off Guerneville, California, which is one of the largest towns in Russian River Valley

Short-term rentals in Russian River Valley

77% occupancy rate on Airbnb 🎉

$374 average daily rate 🛏️

$6,600 average rental revenue per month 💰

84/100 rental demand in the Russian River Valley market ✨

Many visitors flock to the Russian River Valley, a beautiful region just 60 miles north of San Francisco. Visitors discover Redwood and Douglas Fir forests, old bridges spanning the Russian River itself, and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see – from the valley floor onto the benches and slopes of the coast range. The area offers an array of towns with distinct personalities fit for wine and food lovers and nature lovers alike.

Social media relationship statuses often aren’t the only things that are complicated at times. So too are short-term rental (STR) permits in some areas, like Russian River Valley (Sonoma County). The Vacation Rentals Ordinance has not been adopted for the Sonoma coast (e.g., Sea Ranch, Bodega Bay) and is not applicable to rentals in those communities. Additionally, vacation rentals are allowed (with permits) in:

• In homes in single-family residential zoning districts (AR, RR, and R1)
• In existing single-family residences in the LC zoning district
• Agricultural and resource zones including LEA, DA, and RRD (except for lands within an Agricultural Preserve that are subject to a Land Conservation Act (Williamson Act) Contract)

We recommend checking out Permit Sonoma for additional information on what areas are and are not allowed for STR. If you’re unsure about zoning, also consult Permit Sonoma’s Official Zoning Database.

What to see in Russian River Valley

Goat Rock State Park

Goat Rock State Park is located on Highway 1, south of the town of Jenner. It is known for its scenic shoreline and easily accessible beach—including the dog-friendly Blind Beach. The high cliffs at Bodega Head offer excellent vantage points to observe migrating gray whales around early May. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll be greeted by the stunning and rugged Sonoma coastline.

Cloverdale
Be sure to soak up the small-town charm in Cloverdale. The town’s downtown area consists of a cobblestoned town plaza and main street lined with shops and restaurants. Be sure to check out Fritz Underground Winery, Pick’s Drive-In, and the Cloverdale Arts Alliance.

Guerneville
Guerneville, the most central town, is the perfect weekend getaway—especially if you really want to get away. If you visit between May and September, floating the river is one of the most refreshing things to do on a warm summer day. You can also hang out at Johnson’s Beach, where you’ll find a snack bar and watercraft rentals. Staying in Guerneville also means you’re centrally located between the rugged coastline, hiking, tastings at vineyards and so much more. You’ll find plenty of hidden gems to satisfy all of your senses.

In the heart of Sonoma County

Drive to in 4 hours or less

• San Francisco
• Sacramento
• San Jose
• Lake Tahoe

Russian River Valley cobuy opportunities

177 Mohrhardt Ridge Road, Cazadero, CA 95421

Asking price: $1,658,000

Estimated down payment: $331,600

Estimated mortgage: $9,567/month

Estimated rental revenue: $5,180/month

‍

12540 Mays Canyon Road, Guerneville, CA 95446

Asking price: $419,000

Estimated down payment: $83,800

Estimated mortgage: $2,418/month

Estimated rental revenue: $4,813/month

‍

825 Austin Creek Road, Cazadero, CA 95421

Asking price: $544,000

Estimated down payment: $108,800

Estimated mortgage: $3,139/month

Estimated rental revenue: $4,057/month

‍

15244 Rio Nido Road, Guerneville, CA 95446

Asking price: $449,000

Estimated down payment: $89,800

Estimated mortgage: $2,591/month

Estimated rental revenue: $4,813/month

‍

Sources:

• Guerneville, California economy
• Guerneville, California Airbnb rental data
• Guerneville, California home values
• Airbnb Calculator

Nestment, Inc. does not guarantee and is in no way responsible for the accuracy of information provided in this blog post. All information is provided “AS IS” and with all faults. Data presented here may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  While the information on this site is about legal and tax issues, it is not intended as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for the particularized advice of your own attorney and tax professional.