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

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Highlights
Are people in Willits older or younger than people in Petaluma?
- The Median Age in Willits is 1.1 years younger than in Petaluma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Willits or Petaluma?
- Willits housing costs are 57.4% less expensive than Petaluma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Willits or Petaluma?
- The average commute for residents of Willits is 10.3 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 Willits?
Living in Willits, CA is a unique experience. The small town of about 5,500 people has a rural atmosphere and is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. It's close enough to major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento for convenient trips into the city, but far enough away that you can still enjoy the peace and quiet of small-town living. Days are often filled with outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, or horseback riding amidst the lush green hills of Mendocino County. At night the stars seem to ripple across the sky offering unforgettable views of nature's beauty. Willits may be small but it offers a wonderful quality of life - friendly locals, spectacular landscape and plenty of opportunities for fun and relaxation.

 Petaluma, CAWillits, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,008329,725,481
 Median Income$100,379  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$839,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.1%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 Willits    3 Reviews

I used to grow for people that live there a very big marijuana skill people try to hide but the crime rate speaks for itself  More

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Over 10 years ago

We have lived in Willits about 20 years. It has been a fantastic place to retire. We live among the redwoods, clean air, and it's peaceful. The folks here are about the  More

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Over 18 years ago

small wont see it if you blink while  More

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