2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Petaluma, CA vs Imperial Beach, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Imperial Beach older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Imperial Beach is 9.4 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Imperial Beach or Petaluma?
- Imperial Beach housing costs are 4.2% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Imperial Beach or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Imperial Beach is 3.2 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 Imperial Beach?
Imperial Beach, CA is a beachfront community located in San Diego County. It’s known for its year-round sunny climate and picturesque waterfront, allowing visitors to enjoy activities like surfing and swimming in the warm Pacific Ocean. The city also offers a variety of restaurants and shops along its boardwalk, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists alike.

 Petaluma, CAImperial Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock26,375329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%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 Imperial Beach    5 Reviews

Over 14 years ago

In my opinion, imperial beach is the best place to live. IB is the perfect place to raise a family. It has the perfect amount of the good and the bad.  More

   |    Reply

My wife and I moved here from Chula Vista, CA before we knew she was pregnant, attracted by the opportunity to live right near the ocean; in a small, albeit somewhat  More

   |    Reply

Over 20 years ago

Come live in San Diego's most affordable beach community...Imperial  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Imperial Beach


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.