2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Scotts Valley, CA vs Petaluma, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Scotts Valley?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 3.5 years younger than in Scotts Valley.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Scotts Valley?
- Petaluma housing costs are 25.9% less expensive than Scotts Valley housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Scotts Valley?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 2.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Scotts Valley.

Things to do in Scotts Valley?
Scotts Valley, California is a beautiful small town located in Santa Cruz County. Nestled between rolling hills and the Pacific Coast, Scotts Valley offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also many local businesses and attractions, making it a great spot for visitors and residents alike. With its mild climate and friendly atmosphere, Scotts Valley is the perfect place to live or visit.

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!

 Scotts Valley, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$114,504  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,132,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.77  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Scotts Valley    4 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

We lived and worked in Scotts Valley for a number of years. It's a nice enough city, safe and clean unlike some areas of Santa Cruz. It's well managed and the schools  More

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Over 7 years ago

Great weather and small town feel but it is changing rapidly  More

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Over 11 years ago

Scotts Valley is an ideal, small town with many wonderful features. It's just 10 minutes from the beaches in nearby Santa Cruz yet doesn't get the wet fog because it's  More

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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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