2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Petaluma, CA vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 20.8 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Petaluma?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 128.2% more expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 7.7 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 Petaluma, CACarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%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 Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

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carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

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Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

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