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

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Highlights
Are people in Needles older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Needles is 2.6 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Needles or Petaluma?
- Needles housing costs are 77.9% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Needles or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Needles is 0.8 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 Needles?
Living in Needles, CA is a unique experience. Settled on the banks of the Colorado River, Needles sits at the crossroads of two states and offers breathtaking desert views. It's a small town with a population of around 5,000, so everything from grocery stores to public schools are within walking distance. Strolling along the nearby trails, you can spot cacti and other desert flora and fauna. Despite its remote location, there is an active nightlife scene with restaurants and bars catering to both locals and visitors alike. Summers can be hot but are usually bearable thanks to the low humidity. Overall, living in Needles is an unforgettable adventure that leaves lasting memories.

 Petaluma, CANeedles, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock4,921329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock45.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.8%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

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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

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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

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Reviews for Needles    2 Reviews

I own a home in full, with no mortgage and a spacious yard. I can walk to white, sandy beach riverfront in 10 minutes from my front door. In 20 minutes I can be at  More

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Over 15 years ago

Have lived in Needles for 7 years now. This town is being over run with trash. The town is broke due to Dirt bags people that live off of the system. They said  More

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