2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Mill Valley, CA vs Petaluma, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Mill Valley?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 5.1 years younger than in Mill Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Mill Valley?
- Petaluma housing costs are 53.7% less expensive than Mill Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Mill Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 0.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Mill Valley.

Things to do in Mill Valley?
Mill Valley, CA is an independent city located in Marin County northwest from San Quentin inhabited by approximately thirteen thousand people. Mill Valley produces lots of venues like the California State Indian Museum providing locals or tourists with the perfect opportunity to appreciate nature through various activities on a stop here! Additionally there are multiple restaurants and shops around this area making it something distinctive all year round!

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!

 Mill Valley, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$179,529  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,814,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.87  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mill Valley    7 Reviews

I lived in southern Marin County for 20 years and lived it. Just moved  More

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Over 15 years ago

Mill Valley is a perfect place to live and raise a family, if you don't mind a cost of living index of 233. Don't distress - go mountain biking or hiking with  More

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Over 16 years ago

Good weather all year around. Great public schools. Cost of living very high. Crime low wonderful outdoor activities nearby like hiking, beaches,  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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