2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Aptos, CA vs Petaluma, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Aptos?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 10.7 years younger than in Aptos.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Aptos?
- Petaluma housing costs are 34.6% less expensive than Aptos housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Aptos?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 1.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Aptos.

Things to do in Aptos?
Aptos, CA is an idyllic coastal town located in Santa Cruz County. Featuring stunning views of the Monterey Bay and a laid-back lifestyle, Aptos offers its residents a unique and enjoyable experience. The city boasts white sand beaches, rolling hills, and redwood forests – all just minutes away from downtown. Residents of this charming community are also privy to a wide variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues throughout the area. With its mild climate and access to nearby cities like Santa Cruz and Watsonville, Aptos is a great place to call home for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or simply relaxing with friends, Aptos has something for everyone.

Things to do in Petaluma?
Petaluma, California is a charming city located in Sonoma County, approximately 52 miles north of San Francisco. The city was first settled by Europeans in the 1850s and is known today for its historic downtown area full of antique stores, restaurants and specialty shops. Petaluma has something for everyone with its unique shops, farms, vineyards, ranches, community events and scenic hikes. It has become an increasingly popular destination due to its laid-back atmosphere and close proximity to wine country and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation or a romantic getaway, Petaluma awaits!

 Aptos, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$116,583  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,284,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time31.21  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Aptos    4 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

I have owned a home in Aptos for 10 years and cannot thing of anywhere else I would rather live. I have lived in San Diego, Orange County, Half Moon Bay, and other  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

Well, Aptos is in Santa Cruz County, California. I love the entire county of Santa Cruz. The weather is fantastic. We have both the beautiful Monterey Bay with lots  More

   |    Reply

Over 14 years ago

We've lived in Aptos/Rio Del Mar for many years and it's a very lovely, peaceful village far from the rat race . The views of the ocean are stunning and the shopping in  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Aptos

Reviews for Petaluma    16 Reviews

I agree with the low star reviews. Been here for 25 years, raised a family and seen everything turn to the left and worse. Weather is glorious, love the old Victorians  More

   |    Reply

We’ve lived here for 3 years and we love it. It has taken some time to grow on us. We moved from SF where we had lived over 15 years, we were not used to one year leases  More

   |    Reply

I’ve lived here a couple of years (after living in others parts of the Bay Area for 15+ years) and I love it! Great neighborhoods, friendly folks, good schools with  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Petaluma


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.