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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Madera older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Madera is 13.6 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Madera or Petaluma?
- Madera housing costs are 58.2% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Madera or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Madera is 5.9 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 Madera?
Madera, California is a vibrant town located in central Fresno County. This attractive community offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park or the historic Madera County Courthouse Museum. Residents here also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at Lions Town and Country Park or the Madera Municipal Golf Course. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Madera their home.

 Petaluma, CAMadera, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock66,173329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.0%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 Madera    2 Reviews

I live here for the pass 4 years and in these years I lived in a fifth wheeler I owned a RV motor home but my dreams of selling it went out the window on the4 morning  More

   |    Reply

I live in Madera, Ca. and it has been listed in Sperling's BestPlaces as having a home medium price of $315,000 and a population of approx. 35,000. As an update to  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Madera


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.