You know Dana Carvey from his legendary SNL impressions and the Wayne’s World films. But where does the comedy icon actually live? Let’s pull back the curtain on the Dana Carvey house—a stunning Mill Valley estate that’s equal parts sophistication and laid-back California charm. This isn’t just another celebrity crib. It’s a reflection of decades spent making millions laugh while staying refreshingly grounded.
Who is Dana Carvey?
Dana Carvey is the comedic genius behind the Church Lady, Garth Algar, and spot-on presidential impressions that defined an era. Born June 2, 1955, he became an SNL legend from 1986 to 1993. His impressions of George H.W. Bush remain iconic. More recently, he’s tackled Joe Biden and Elon Musk with the same sharp wit. The guy’s a master at capturing personalities with just a voice tweak and facial expression.
Beyond sketch comedy, Carvey built a solid film career. Wayne’s World put him on the map as Garth, Mike Myers’ lovable sidekick. He’s also crushed it in stand-up, podcasting, and voice work. With an estimated net worth of $20 million, Dana’s comedy chops translated into serious financial success. He’s married to Paula Zwagerman since 1983, and they’ve raised two sons together. Family has always been his anchor.
Carvey’s approach to wealth is refreshingly low-key. No flashy car collections or private islands here. Instead, he’s invested wisely in real estate that serves his family’s needs. This grounded approach reflects the same authenticity that made his comedy resonate.
Where Does Dana Carvey Live Now?
The Dana Carvey house currently sits in Mill Valley, California—a picturesque Marin County town just north of San Francisco. This isn’t Hollywood glitz. It’s tree-lined streets, redwood forests, and a community that values privacy over paparazzi. Mill Valley attracts creative professionals who want nature’s beauty without sacrificing urban access. It’s the sweet spot for celebrities seeking normalcy.
The town sits at Mount Tamalpais’ base, offering hiking trails and stunning views. Downtown Mill Valley delivers boutique shops, quality restaurants, and cultural events. But the real draw? That small-town vibe where neighbors respect each other’s space. Dana can grab coffee without cameras in his face. His family enjoys excellent schools and outdoor activities steps from their door.
Highway 101 connects Mill Valley to San Francisco in about 20 minutes. The Golden Gate Bridge? Easy access. San Francisco International Airport is roughly 30 miles away. This location gives Dana the flexibility to work in the city when needed while retreating to peaceful surroundings. It’s practical luxury—celebrity life without the chaos.
The Dana Carvey House: A $12 Million Masterpiece
Dana’s Mill Valley property is valued at approximately $12 million. This isn’t just a house—it’s roughly 8,000 square feet of carefully designed living space. The home sits on several acres, offering privacy and those jaw-dropping hillside views that make Marin County legendary. Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms accommodate family and guests comfortably. Large windows flood every room with natural light and bring the outside in.
The architecture blends contemporary California style with warm, traditional touches. Think clean lines, natural materials like wood and stone, and a design that respects the surrounding landscape. The floor plan emphasizes open spaces that flow seamlessly. High ceilings create an airy feel throughout. Quality craftsmanship shows in every detail—from woodwork to tile installations.
A gourmet kitchen serves as the home’s heart. Top-of-the-line appliances make cooking a pleasure, not a chore. The master suite offers a private sanctuary with its own sitting area. The spa-like bathroom? Pure relaxation. Entertainment spaces throughout provide perfect settings for movie nights or simply unwinding. A home office gives Dana space to work on scripts and practice his legendary impressions in private.
Multiple decks and patios extend the living area outdoors. These spaces are ideal for enjoying California’s mild climate year-round. Native landscaping and mature trees provide natural privacy while keeping maintenance reasonable. Pathways wind through the property, creating peaceful walking spots. Smart home technology controls lighting, temperature, and security with ease. Energy-efficient systems keep the environmental impact low while managing costs.
Dana Carvey’s Encino Property: The Previous Chapter
Before settling in Mill Valley, Dana owned a ranch-style home in Encino, Los Angeles. Located at 17333 Rancho Street, this property served as his family’s residence for years. Built in 1947, the house featured four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and over 4,000 square feet. The ranch-style design included a finished attic, guest house, and swimming pool. Five fireplaces added warmth and character throughout the home.
This Encino property reflected a different era in Dana’s life. During his SNL peak and Wayne’s World success, the home provided space for his growing family. The neighborhood offered good schools and a safe, family-friendly environment. The property’s sale price hit $3,995,000, purchased by Brandon Thomas and Dylan Jagger, Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee’s sons. Not bad for a 1947 build.
The move from Encino to Mill Valley marked a deliberate lifestyle shift. Dana traded LA’s entertainment industry buzz for Northern California’s natural beauty and slower pace. The change reflects priorities evolving with age and success. Sometimes the best move is toward peace, not parties.
Unique Features: The Oval Office Replica
Here’s where things get interesting. Dana’s former Encino home included a replica of the Oval Office. Yeah, you read that right. Complete with the iconic Resolute desk and presidential memorabilia, this room paid homage to his legendary George H.W. Bush impression. It was both authentic and whimsical—classic Carvey. The attention to detail? Impressive. It served as a conversation starter and perfect backdrop for gatherings.
This quirky addition showcased Dana’s personality perfectly. The guy spent years impersonating presidents on national television. Why not honor that with some playful interior design? It blended humor with sophistication, entertainment history with home comfort. Guests probably never forgot their first glimpse of that room.
Throughout his homes, Dana incorporated personal touches reflecting his journey. Vintage posters, quirky artwork, and comedy memorabilia tell stories of his career. The living spaces feature vibrant colors and plush furniture, inviting relaxation. His design philosophy? Comfort meets character. Every piece adds warmth without taking itself too seriously.
Entertaining and Lifestyle: How Dana Lives
Dana’s known for bringing people together. His homes serve as gathering places where laughter flows freely. Whether hosting industry friends or intimate family dinners, he creates relaxed atmospheres. Spontaneous performances and shared stories make every party memorable. The guy’s a natural entertainer—on stage and at home.
His entertaining style emphasizes connection over formality. Carefully curated playlists set the mood. Food options cater to everyone’s tastes, showcasing his culinary skills alongside comedic talents. Guests experience humor, warmth, and engaging conversations. Dana makes hosting look effortless, which is its own art form.
COVID-19 transformed how Dana used his home. The space became a creativity sanctuary during lockdowns. He connected with fans through virtual performances and social media from his makeshift home studio. Quiet evenings replaced bustling gatherings. But the shift encouraged introspection and personal projects. Gardening became a newfound passion. The pandemic redefined what “home” meant—adding tranquility to its usual energy.
Real Estate Portfolio: Smart Investments Over Time
Dana’s real estate journey reflects practical wisdom. Earlier in his career, he owned a modest San Francisco-area home. This property provided a comfortable base while he built his comedy reputation. Access to clubs and performance venues helped him hone his craft. As success grew, so did his property ambitions. He sold that starter home for profit when family needs changed.
During his SNL peak, Dana upgraded to a larger property. This residence offered more space and amenities for his expanding family. The neighborhood provided safety and quality schools. When timing felt right, he sold for substantial gains. His investment strategy focused on quality locations with long-term appreciation potential. Northern California real estate has rewarded that approach handsomely.
The current Mill Valley property represents his most significant investment. Its $12 million value reflects impressive features and a prime Marin County location. This serves as his primary residence with no plans to move. It provides everything his family needs while offering privacy and natural beauty. Dana hasn’t engaged in extensive property flipping like some celebrities. His choices prioritize stability over speculation.
FAQs
Where exactly is Dana Carvey’s house located?
The Dana Carvey house is in Mill Valley, Marin County, California. The exact address remains private for security reasons. The property sits in an exclusive neighborhood with large lots and hillside views. Mill Valley’s tree-lined streets offer peace while maintaining proximity to San Francisco.
How much is Dana Carvey’s house worth?
Dana’s current Mill Valley home is valued at approximately $12 million. This reflects the property’s impressive size, features, and prime location. His previous Encino property sold for nearly $4 million. Real estate in these desirable California areas continues to appreciate.
What are the main features of Dana Carvey’s home?
The Mill Valley property spans roughly 8,000 square feet on several acres. It includes multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and a master suite with a spa-like bathroom. Large windows, high ceilings, and open floor plans define the space. Outdoor decks, patios, and mature landscaping complete the package.
Does Dana Carvey still own the Encino house?
No, Dana sold the Encino property at 17333 Rancho Street. Brandon Thomas and Dylan Jagger purchased it for $3,995,000. That ranch-style home featured the famous Oval Office replica. Dana’s focus now centers on his Mill Valley residence.
Why did Dana Carvey choose Mill Valley?
Mill Valley offers privacy, natural beauty, and a community atmosphere. The town provides excellent schools, outdoor activities, and cultural amenities. Its location allows quick access to San Francisco while maintaining peaceful seclusion. This balance suits Dana’s family-oriented lifestyle perfectly.
What makes Dana Carvey’s home unique?
His former Encino home featured an Oval Office replica—complete with Resolute desk and presidential memorabilia. His design choices throughout properties reflect personality through quirky artwork, vintage posters, and comedy memorabilia. Each space balances comfort with character, creating inviting atmospheres.
Conclusion
The Dana Carvey house in Mill Valley perfectly captures his journey from SNL legend to grounded family man. This $12 million estate delivers luxury without losing touch with what matters—family, creativity, and peace. From the Oval Office replica in Encino to the hillside views in Marin County, Dana’s real estate choices reflect smart investments and authentic living.
His approach? Quality over quantity, substance over flash. The comedian who made millions laugh chooses quiet mornings over Hollywood chaos. That’s the real flex—success that doesn’t need constant validation. Dana Carvey’s home isn’t just where he lives. It’s proof you can make it big and stay real.
