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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Jackson older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Jackson is 0.3 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Jackson or Petaluma?
- Jackson housing costs are 48.2% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Jackson or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Jackson is 1.9 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 Jackson?
Living in Jackson, CA can be an enjoyable experience. With its small-town charm and laid-back atmosphere, the town of Jackson offers a peaceful place to call home. Residents enjoy access to outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing and camping nearby, as well as plenty of local attractions. The downtown area is full of unique shops, restaurants and other businesses that make it easy to find something fun to do or explore. With its excellent schools, friendly people and affordable housing, Jackson really is a great place to live.

 Petaluma, CAJackson, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock4,958329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock43.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.4%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

   |    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 Jackson    5 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

I live 16 miles outta Jackson and we get 4 or 5 inches of snow in Jan and Feb so  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Volcano is a charming town in the California gold country, population 100 people. One hotel, one bar, off the beaten path. It is above the fog and below the snow. Once a  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

Jackson, California is a great place to live for retirees. The city and country police and the highway patrol are all over this place. Also, there's all kinds of  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Jackson


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.