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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Oakdale older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Oakdale is 6.4 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Oakdale or Petaluma?
- Oakdale housing costs are 42.3% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Oakdale or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Oakdale is 0.9 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 Oakdale?
Oakdale is a city located in Stanislaus County, California. It has a population of 22,660 and is located along the confluence of the Stanislaus and Tuolumne Rivers. The city offers a variety of recreational activities such as watersports on both rivers, hiking in nearby parks like Knights Ferry Recreation Area, horseback riding, and golfing at Woodward Reservoir Regional Park. Additionally, Oakdale provides educational opportunities with two local public schools and several private schools. With its abundance of outdoor recreation and quality education options, Oakdale is an ideal place to visit or call home.

 Petaluma, CAOakdale, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock23,016329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock8.8%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

   |    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 Oakdale    3 Reviews

I have lived here for about 10 years. Except for rush hour traffic on F Street the area is relatively quiet. We are the "Gateway to Yosemite" in that both California  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

October through May are great months. It doesn't snow here, but the temp might drop to high 30's at night during the winter. During spring, we have some windy days with  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

We have lived in this community for 30 years. We have raised our children here. We like the area and the town. The town doesn't offer enough shopping but the close city  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Oakdale


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.