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

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Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Chester?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 15.2 years younger than in Chester.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Chester?
- Petaluma housing costs are 137.4% more expensive than Chester housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Chester?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 8.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Chester.

Things to do in Chester?
Living in Chester, CA is a great experience. It is a small town with a population of just 1,500 people, but it has everything you need from local grocery stores and gas stations to delicious restaurants and unique shops. The community spirit is very strong here, and everyone knows each other. You will often see neighbors walking their dogs or out for a jog or bike ride around town. There are plenty of outdoor activities nearby too, like camping and fishing in the surrounding lakes and streams. Plus, the scenery is absolutely stunning as you take in views of towering mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills. Overall, Chester is an amazing place to call home.

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!

 Chester, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$59,459  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$353,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.94  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chester    2 Reviews

Do not stop in Plumas County CA! If the adage "come on vacation stay on probation" isn't familiar it soon will be. Remember this warning & remove Plumas County from  More

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Over 16 years ago

Chester is located on the shores of Lake Almanor, a popular summer recfration spot for Sacramento Valley residents to get out of the  More

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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

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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

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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

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