Located on the east side of Petaluma, the College District is a  family-friendly area known for its tree-lined streets, charming homes, and proximity to schools, parks, and local amenities. It’s bordered by the Adobe District, Maker Alley, and Midtown and is just a short drive to both Downtown Petaluma and the HWY 10, making it a convenient location for commuters and people who work locally.

The College District’s name comes from the nearby Santa Rosa Junior College Petaluma Campus, which is a cornerstone of the community. Located in the center of the College District, the campus has modern facilities, beautiful grounds, and a welcoming atmosphere. In addition to offering a variety of academic programs, the campus regularly hosts public events, workshops, and cultural activities that bring the community together. 

The east side of Petaluma began developing in the 1960’s and 70’s as the city expanded to accommodate a growing population. This growth was fueled by the post-World War II housing boom and the increasing demand for suburban living. As Petaluma’s economy evolved beyond its agricultural roots, new residential neighborhoods were built on the eastside in what was once farmland to provide affordable, family-friendly housing for returning veterans, young families, and commuters to the Bay Area. The construction of East Washington Street as a main thoroughfare made the eastside even more accessible, attracting businesses, schools, and shopping centers to serve the growing community. 

The homes here are a mix of charming mid-century ranch-style houses and updated properties with modern touches. The wide streets and spacious lots create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that many families and retirees find appealing. In the College district, you can find everything from small condos and single family homes on the lower end of prices for Petaluma to large, luxury properties. Current homes on the market in this district range from $634,000 to $1,700,000, so there really is a large variety of homes and prices found in this  area.

The College District has a fantastic location that blends peaceful suburban living with easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. The Plaza North Shopping Center on North McDowell Boulevard is a popular spot for shopping and dining in the College district. Anchored by Trader Joe's, it offers a mix of retailers and services, including Ross and Raley's. Dining options like Simmer Vietnamese Kitchen and Lemongrass Thai  add to its appeal, making it a convenient spot for errands, groceries, and casual meals. The Deer Creek Village is another shopping center also located on North McDowell Boulevard. Deer Creek has Friedman’s Home Improvement, Mary’s Pizza Shack, The Habit Burger Grill and a City Sports Club. This shopping center also has a public dog park.

If you love spending time outdoors, you’ll appreciate the abundance of green spaces in and around the College District. Lucchesi Park is a large 30 acre park that offers a wide range of amenities, including a dog run area, lighted multi-use fields, picnic areas, a playground, and lighted tennis courts. Additional features include horseshoe pits and a 9-hole frisbee golf course, providing activities for all ages and interests. Leghorn’s Park is another popular park in the area, located near Leghorn Marketplace. It offers a wide range of amenities, including a spacious playground, group picnic areas, BBQ pits, and convenient restroom facilities. The park features tennis courts, bocce courts, basketball courts, and ballfields, making it a park with something for everyone.

Now, let’s talk more about real estate in the area. The College District offers excellent opportunities for buyers and investors. With its mix of architectural styles, proximity to amenities, and quiet streets, it’s no surprise that homes here are in high demand. Let’s take a look at some of the neighborhoods within the college district.

The College District embodies the charm and livability that make Petaluma such a desirable place to call home. If you’re thinking about moving to Petaluma or investing in the area, the College District is worth a closer look.

If you’d like to learn more about the College District or explore homes in this area—or anywhere else in Petaluma—give me a call. I’d love to help you find your dream home.