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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Benicia older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Benicia is 2.3 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Benicia or Petaluma?
- Benicia housing costs are 9.3% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Benicia or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Benicia is 3.5 minutes longer 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 Benicia?
Benicia, CA is situated along San Francisco Bay, just north of Vallejo and east of Martinez. The city has grown significantly over the past decade due to its diverse offerings like waterfront parks and trails, top-notch restaurants, unique antique shops, and art galleries alongside newer developments such as modern housing complexes and high-end retail outlets.

 Petaluma, CABenicia, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock27,191329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock45.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.5%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

   |    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

Reviews for Benicia    5 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

Formerly an out of the way set of signs on the freeways noticed on the way out of town, with a reputation for refineries, Benicia has transformed over the years into a  More

   |    Reply

i've lived lots of places and benicia is by far the worst. th kist here (12-20) are jerks, they jump infront of cars, run around the stores like crazy people and are  More

   |    Reply

I'm a Californian who doesn't like cars, traffic or driving. That's why I moved to Benicia, so I could walk to work if I wanted. After work, I really don't need a car  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Benicia


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.