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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in Sonoma?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 11.3 years younger than in Sonoma.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or Sonoma?
- Petaluma housing costs are 7.4% less expensive than Sonoma housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or Sonoma?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 3.8 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sonoma.

Things to do in Sonoma?
Sonoma, CA is an attractive town northwest of San Francisco full of incredible sites such as Jack London State Historic Park Displaying its distinct landscape or Sonoma Valley Regional Park great for recreational activities; visitors can also join in the magnificent Vintage Festival celebrating culture through arts and music every May.

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!

 Sonoma, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$92,078  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$906,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.34  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sonoma    12 Reviews

Over 12 years ago

I love Sonoma. Moved here from Texas and I can't wait to live in this small town with country living all around. I hate all the drama and crime in Vallejo. I live in  More

   |    Reply

I have lived in Sonoma for 3 years now. I relocated after a brief stint in Salt Lake City but lived in San Francisco for 30 years before that. If you like small town  More

   |    Reply

The best aspects of living in Sonoma County,CA: Air quality is best that one can ask for and there is no severe weather. No hazardous weather driving or walking  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Sonoma

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


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.