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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Lancaster older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Lancaster is 9.5 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Lancaster or Petaluma?
- Lancaster housing costs are 50.5% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Lancaster or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Lancaster is 1.8 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 Lancaster?
Lancaster, California is a vibrant city located in the heart of Antelope Valley. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Desert National Wildlife Refuge and Prime Desert Woodland Preserve, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Lancaster. 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, Lancaster has something for everyone!

 Petaluma, CALancaster, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock171,820329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock33.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock15.6%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 Lancaster    48 Reviews

Worse than even Compton in some ways... worse than hell overall. This place is so bad you will want to off yourself every day just by being here, but probably not too  More

   |    Reply

Over 5 years ago

I was born here, then grew up here for 17 years and joined the Army as a teen, but constantly went back to visit my parents and friends. I lived there again for 4 years  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

Moved to the Eastside of Lancaster. I have target, lowes, the whole wheatery, homedepot, bank of America, wells Fargo, Walmart, traders Joe's, Carl's jr, burger king,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Lancaster


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.