2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Petaluma, CA vs Arroyo Grande, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Arroyo Grande older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Arroyo Grande is 3.9 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Arroyo Grande or Petaluma?
- Arroyo Grande housing costs are 7.9% more expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Arroyo Grande or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Arroyo Grande is 8.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Petaluma.

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!

Things to do in Arroyo Grande?
Arroyo Grande, California lies within San Luis Obispo county providing its citizens access to top rated schools such as Dana Elementary School while also having shopping options near Arroyo Grande Village Square as well as multiple food spots including La Caseta

 Petaluma, CAArroyo Grande, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock18,422329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock46.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time30.13  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Arroyo Grande    8 Reviews

Over 8 years ago

Arroyo Grande is a nice place to live. However, it is rather expensive for many people. There is a large retirement community living here, and home and rental prices are  More

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Over 9 years ago

I've lived here for nearly thirty years and love it. Great, easy climate year round. I know what I'm talking about--having lived in San Francisco Bay Area, Nevada,  More

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People from here absolutely love it and refuse to admit that it is much too expensive. They hate change. To live in a good school area will cost you dearly. There is  More

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