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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Hayward older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Hayward is 6.2 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Hayward or Petaluma?
- Hayward housing costs are 4.4% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Hayward or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Hayward is 2.3 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 Hayward?
Hayward, California is a vibrant city located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Don Castro Regional Park and Garin Regional Park, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Hayward. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including galleries and museums. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Hayward has something for everyone!

 Petaluma, CAHayward, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock162,254329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%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 Hayward    4 Reviews

I've lived in Hayward for 20 years. Traditionally a working  More

   |    Reply

Hetchy Hechy water is very pure,the summers are about 78f..warm enough. Winters are sunny for the most part and by average.One University and one College in this small  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

convenient BART and bus if you have no  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Hayward


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.