2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Huntington Beach, CA vs Petaluma, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Huntington Beach?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 0.3 years younger than in Huntington Beach.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Huntington Beach?
- Petaluma housing costs are 21.0% less expensive than Huntington Beach housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Huntington Beach?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 1.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Huntington Beach.

Things to do in Huntington Beach?
Huntington Beach, California is a beautiful beach city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the miles of shoreline or take a stroll along the iconic Huntington Beach Pier. History buffs should head to The International Surfing Museum to learn more about the area's past. Sports fans can catch a game at Huntington Beach Sports Complex, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should check out Main Street or Pacific City for good deals on all kinds of items. With its picturesque coastline and myriad activities, Huntington Beach is a great place to visit!

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!

 Huntington Beach, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$104,728  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,063,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.93  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Huntington Beach    33 Reviews

Lived here for a couple months now. Love the beach and the weather. Nice boardwalk to walk or ride your bike. Overall nice clean feel and vibe. Only move here if you  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

Overdevelopment has ruined the city, Housing is overpriced - overseas investors, corporate housing, sober living houses (there are many throughout the city) and AirB&B  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

The population of Huntington Beach is much more than that. It was actually 199,189 according to the city's  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Huntington Beach

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.