2025 Compare Cities Overview:
South San Francisco, CA vs Petaluma, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Petaluma older or younger than people in South San Francisco?
- The Median Age in Petaluma is 0.7 years older than in South San Francisco.

Are housing costs cheaper in Petaluma or South San Francisco?
- Petaluma housing costs are 29.2% less expensive than South San Francisco housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Petaluma or South San Francisco?
- The average commute for residents of Petaluma is 2.7 minutes longer than it is for residents of South San Francisco.

Things to do in South San Francisco?
South San Francisco, California is a thriving city located in the Bay Area. This vibrant community is home to many noteworthy attractions such as the breathtaking Oyster Point Marina or the historic SSF history museum. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation at the beautiful Mori Point Park or the scenic San Bruno Mountain State Park. With its booming economy, amazing views, and wide array of fun activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call South San Francisco their home.

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!

 South San Francisco, CAPetaluma, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,050329,725,481
 Median Income$112,818  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,185,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time27.4  Unlock26.38
Reviews for South San Francisco    5 Reviews

It's amazing, but many, many people, including people who live in SF, think that SSF is just a part of SF. Not true. We're right across the highway from SFO, which is  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

One frustrating thing about South City weather is the number of overcast & foggy days, as compared to other nearby cities on the Peninsula. You can literally look  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Been living in bayview hunters point for about 12 years now. What I can say that it's a rough place to live, no one cares about us and the mayor of San Francisco  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of South San Francisco

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


Learn More About South San Francisco, California
Overview
Cost of Living
Job Market
Crime
Climate
Economy
Religion
Voting
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.