2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Petaluma, CA vs Pismo Beach, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Pismo Beach older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Pismo Beach is 15.4 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Pismo Beach or Petaluma?
- Pismo Beach housing costs are 43.7% more expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Pismo Beach or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Pismo Beach is 8.0 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 Pismo Beach?
Living in Pismo Beach, CA is an incredible experience. The area is known for its stunning coastline and seaside cliffs, providing mesmerizing views of the Pacific. It's also very close to a number of exciting attractions like Hearst Castle, Avila Beach, and Oceano Dunes. With so much to explore both on land and water, Pismo Beach offers something for everyone. It is also home to great restaurants and bars that serve up delicious local cuisine. Plus, the weather is almost always beautiful with plenty of sunshine to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for an outdoorsy adventure or simply a leisurely beachside stroll, Pismo Beach provides plenty of opportunities to make your stay memorable.

 Petaluma, CAPismo Beach, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock8,058329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock58.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.8%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 Pismo Beach    4 Reviews

It's a nice town to visit - although very touristy. Clean air - and nice sand dunes nearby. A variety of housing - but expensive. Good for seafood. I would say  More

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It's still challenging to find a good job: Diablo Canyon Nuclear plant has announced it will be closing in 9 years, so many 6-figure incomes will be going along with the  More

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Over 9 years ago

Because of fires allowed in campsites each and everyday it is very smokey and hard to  More

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