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

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Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Irvine?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 9.0 years older than in Irvine.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Irvine?
- Petaluma housing costs are 25.6% less expensive than Irvine housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Irvine?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 5.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Irvine.

Things to do in Irvine?
Irvine, California is an exciting city with something to suit everyone's taste. Enjoy the beautiful beaches at Laguna Beach and visit the unique shops of the Irvine Spectrum Center. Visit one of the many theaters or museums, explore University Park or take a walk along the San Diego Creek Trail. For those looking for outdoor recreation, there’s no lack of option - from mountain biking and skateboarding to kayaking and rock climbing. With its world-class schools, sprawling parks, and entertainment venues - it’s easy to see why Irvine is such a desirable place to live!

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!

 Irvine, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$114,027  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,128,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Irvine    42 Reviews

We've lived in Irvine since '87. We have raised two children within the ISUD. Both are grown up. Sure, there have been many changes since then.. the City has  More

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I've lived in Irvine for 2 years and in Orange County for 10 so I'm pretty familiar with the area by now and all it has to offer. Perhaps my review of this place has  More

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I wouldn't live elsewhere. I originally moved to Irvine in 2002 from the Midwest, not knowing what it even was. I left and moved around a great deal locally in OC,  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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