2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Petaluma, CA vs Walnut Creek, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Walnut Creek older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Walnut Creek is 5.0 years older than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Walnut Creek or Petaluma?
- Walnut Creek housing costs are 22.1% more expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Walnut Creek or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Walnut Creek is 3.5 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 Walnut Creek?
Walnut Creek, California is a vibrant city located in the northern region of the United States. Home to attractions such as Mount Diablo State Park and Ruth Bancroft Garden, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Walnut Creek. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, shops, restaurants and performance venues such as Lesher Centre for the Arts and Contra Costa Musical Theatre. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Walnut Creek has something for everyone!

 Petaluma, CAWalnut Creek, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock69,876329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock47.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%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 Walnut Creek    16 Reviews

Apart from the congestion, Walnut Creek is one of the best places in the San Francisco Bay Area to live. It is one of the most compact/walkable cities in the entire area  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

Almost all of Walnut Creek water comes from Pardee dam through an enclosed pipeline. That water is direct from the high Sierras. Among the best water quality in the  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

I grew up in Southern California and am no stranger to a more inland California climate. Before moving to WC I lived in San Francisco for 15 years where it is obviously  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Walnut Creek


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.