If you’re heading to Sonoma County, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re looking into the two most popular cities in the area: Sonoma & Healdsburg. So, what’s it like to live in each one of them? What are the benefits when it comes to proximity to major cities nearby like SF? And what about the different housing options?
Even though they look similar, they offer two completely different lifestyles for different people. In this in-depth guide, I will go into detail about the differences in geographic location, the housing options, the available amenities, and the food and drink scene.
So, let’s start breaking down the differences between Sonoma vs Healdsburg.
When we think about Sonoma County, we may think about gorgeous vineyards, rolling hills, amazing food, and an unbeatable North California outdoor lifestyle. And both Sonoma & Healdsburg offer that and so much more.
So, first, let’s go over the topic every realtor likes to talk about: location, location, location. So, what’s the difference between Sonoma & Healdsburg? And which one is better?
If you are looking at Sonoma as an option for a second home when you live in San Francisco, then at just 45 miles away, there is no question that it is closer to San Franciso taking about an hour in the car. While the traffic on the 37 can be horrendous if you are making the journey during peak hours it is easy to avoid the peak hour plus there are a couple of routes you can take to minimize traffic.
That being said, for some people the attraction of Sonoma is that it is relatively easy to get to Napa and Napa Valley from Sonoma. In 30 minutes you can be tasting the great wines of Napa Valley or visiting the indoor market in Napa town.
For some people, Healdsburg, at 75 miles from San Francisco, Healdsburg is just that bit too far, especially for people coming from the South Bay or East Bay.
However, if you are moving here permanently, then the distance to San Francisco is probably less important. Regardless of whether you choose to live in Sonoma or Healdsburg, at between an hour or an hour and a half, it really isn’t too far away. In fact, I have a client who moved to Healdsburg from San Francisco and he got up at 5am, 3 days a week to go and meet up with his swimming buddies to go and swim in the Bay. It just goes to show if you really want to go to San Francisco a few days a week to either work, go to the theater or swim in the Bay, neither Sonoma or Healdsburg are too far away.
For me one of the big benefits of Healdsburg over Sonoma is the fact that Sonoma County Airport is literally 10 minutes away. Being able to leave my house at 7am to catch an 8:15 flight is a dream. It’s more like catching a bus than a plane given you can park right outside the terminal, cruise through security and step onto the plane.
Another big benefit of Healdsburg within the next few years will be the arrival of the Smart Train which is slated for 2025/2026 which means you will then be able to get on the train at Healdsburg, ride to Larkspur and then get on the ferry to SF.
Another aspect which is important to some people is the proximity to the coast or the Russian River to either go hiking, riding or just to cool down in the heat of summer. I have some clients who live in Healdsburg and have a couple of kayaks and paddleboards and will often head to the river on the weekend and go for a paddle. In Sonoma, this just wouldn’t be possible.
If you live in Sonoma and want to go to the coast it is probably about an hour away to get to Bodega bay where there are lots of options for lunch while to get to the russian river it is probably nearer an hour and a half. Again this isn’t far but if hiking on the coast is something you want easy access to, if it is 90 minutes away you are less likely to do it once you live here.
When it comes to the food scene, both Healdsburg and Sonoma are exceptional, yet their food scenes in some ways reflect their personalities catering to different palates and experiences. Understanding their differences may help you decide which city matches your personality
Healdsburg is often regarded as a foodie's paradise and is increasingly viewed as the foodie capital of Sonoma county. A place where gourmet dining meets artistic presentation and innovative cuisine. When it comes to Michelin star restaurants, Healdsburg wins hands down with its high-end restaurants being destinations in their own right, drawing foodies from all over the world.
SingleThread offers a multi-course tasting menu that is a journey through Sonoma County’s seasonal bounty. this Michelin-starred restaurant exemplifies Healdsburg's commitment to fine dining. Valette, Barn Diva and Dry Creek Kitchen are other stand out restaurants.
Beyond the top restaurants, Healdsburg is home to a variety of restaurants offering everything from artisanal bakeries to upscale bistros. The Healdsburg Farmers' Market is another highlight which is going to be moving to a new indoor dedicated Farmers market venue within the next couple of years which is going to be amazing.
Sonoma, while less renowned as a gourmet destination compared to Healdsburg, offers a more traditional and diverse culinary experience. The city's restaurants often reflect its rich history, offering a fusion of old-world charm and contemporary Californian cuisine.
The Girl & The Fig is a quintessential Sonoma eatery, providing a rustic menu that complements the region's wines. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it's a place where locals and tourists alike gather for a taste of Sonoma’s agricultural heritage.
El Dorado Kitchen, set in the historic El Dorado Hotel, offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights the simplicity and freshness of local ingredients. This restaurant, among others in Sonoma, embodies the city's ability to blend the traditional with the modern.
Sonoma also has a variety of casual cafes, historic eateries, and family-owned restaurants, reflecting the city's diverse cultural influences. Somoma also has its Farmers' Market which is a weekly celebration of local produce, where the community’s connection to agriculture is on full display.
In summary, Healdsburg's culinary scene is characterized by its sophisticated, high-end dining experiences, perfect for those seeking culinary innovation and gourmet flavors. Sonoma, in contrast, offers a more down-to-earth dining experience, with a focus on traditional and diverse culinary offerings.
The wineries in Sonoma are as diverse as its landscape, offering everything from large, historic estates like Buena Vista to small, family-run vineyards. This diversity allows for a wide range of wine styles and tasting experiences although you will probably find more formal wine experiences around Sonoma than Healdsburg
Healdsburg, nestled at the confluence of three major wine regions, is known for its boutique wineries with a wide range of varietals from the Pinot’s of the Russian River, to the heavy Zin’s of Dry Creek Valley to the Cabernet of Alexander Valley. These smaller, often family-owned wineries provide a more intimate wine tasting experience but might lack the grandeur and variety of some of the larger Sonoma wineries.
It’s all very well having all these amenities but the most important thing about living anywhere is the people and the sense of community. How easy is it to find your tribe?
There is no question that both Healdsburg and Sonoma have a strong sense of community with regular events and markets in their respective plazas and this in its own right fosters a sense of inclusiveness and activity.
However, there is a big difference which is hard to put your finger on. I think part of it is rooted in the fact that Sonoma does have a greater sense of history and tradition and there are a lot more “multi-generational” families there. If I had to generalize I would say people in Sonoma probably take themselves a bit more seriously. In Sonoma, there is probably less of a connection between the people that make the city run and the people who have moved there. At a very basic level, there is very little worker housing in Sonoma which is something there is a huge focus on addressing in Healdsburg.
One of my clients made an interesting comparison. They said Sonoma was more of a “Don’t sit with us” mentality whereas Healdsburg was the opposite “Come Sit With US”. I feel in Healdsburg there are no boundaries. Wine makers, teachers mix with multi-millionaires from the Bay Area. It just feels a bit more relaxed. Everyone is just comfortable in their own skin.
I’m not saying one is better than the other. I would say the same could be said for the difference between Napa and Sonoma County’s. People in Napa, generally take themselves more seriously!
Like Healdsburg, Sonoma has a large variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and range of price points. Whether you're looking for a cozy starter home, a family residence, or a luxurious estate, Sonoma has something to cater to your needs. While the size of the city is approximately the same with 11,000 people, the greater Sonoma area is definitely larger and so there is probably a wider range of higher end luxury homes than you will find around Healdsburg.
If we look at the number of homes sold in 2023 in Sonoma it was 340 homes with 28 percent or 97 homes over $1.5m. This is double the number of homes sold in Healdsburg last year.
Let's delve into some key neighborhoods in Sonoma,
The East Side of Sonoma Valley, just outside of the city limits, is known for its upscale homes and estates, many of which offer breathtaking vineyard views. This area is characterized by larger properties and luxurious homes, making it a top choice for those seeking exclusivity and tranquility in a picturesque setting. Homes in this area often fetch upwards of $3m dollars. If you are looking for a high end retreat, in among the vineyards but close to the amenities of the city, this is a great option
The downtown areas can be characterized by homes on the east side of town vs the west side of town. It is the homes on the Eastside that are the higher end homes and have some of the most amazing historic homes. It is increasingly hard to find a home in this part of town for less than $1.5m. Homes on the west side of town and as you head north are definitely more affordable but still have the benefit of easy access to the downtown area.
Located just north of Sonoma, Boyes Hot Springs is a diverse and increasingly popular neighborhood. Known for its more affordable housing options, this area has been attracting a mix of first-time homebuyers and investors for quite some time. Like the city of Sonoma, properties in this area cannot be vacation rented as with many other areas just outside the city limits.
The last area to touch on is Agua Caliente and Fetters Hot Springs, which are adjacent neighborhoods that offer a more suburban feel. These areas have a variety of housing options, from modest single-family homes to larger properties. These areas are great for families and individuals looking for a community-oriented environment. With good schools, parks, and a friendly atmosphere, they are ideal for those who want a blend of suburban comfort and access to Sonoma’s amenities.
If we look at the total number of homes that sold in Healdsburg in 2023 it is 171 with 67, or 40% of those over $1.5m. Like Sonoma there are a lot of different options.
This offers the convenience of being within a 15-minute walk of the Plaza, providing easy access to amenities without needing a car. The downtown area is characterized by charming, older Victorian homes with front porches, creating a distinct atmosphere. The most sought-after streets in downtown, like Tucker St and Haydon St, feature wide roads lined with mature trees, large houses, and big lots, often exceeding 12,000 sq ft. Downtown living is ideal for those seeking a walking lifestyle and a sound real estate investment. For houses in this area, it is increasingly hard to find a home for less than $1.5m unless it needs a lot of work.
Immediately north of Powell st are ranch style 3 bed 2 bath homes that are more affordable and great for families. As you continue further north, you get to Parkland Farms which is a newer subdivision within Healdsburg and is very popular with families because of the access to open space as well as the ability to get a 4 bed home for $1m.
Covering a vast area, living in rural Healdsburg presents various options. Iconic locations include Dry Creek Valley, known for its spectacular properties, and Alexander Valley, famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon and home to Silver Oak winery. Chalk Hill Road offers stunning scenery but is farther from Healdsburg, probably a 30 min drive away. Then there are places like Chiquita Road which offer a balance between rural feel and proximity to town.
This is a newer option in Healdsburg, with developments like Mill District, Montage, and Enzo offering luxury homes with onsite amenities. This is a big difference between Sonoma and Healdsburg because Sonoma hasn’t allowed any new significant developments or hotels for decades. One of the reasons for this, is that the city just doesn’t own the same amount of land that Healdsburg city does that it can choose to develop either for workforce housing or to entice visitors to the city and the economic benefits that brings.
Montage Resort and Residences feature luxury turnkey homes and lots for custom-built homes, with access to Montage’s services like housekeeping and concierge. Mill District, located downtown, offers high-end condos for those wanting a lock-up-and-leave lifestyle close to city amenities. Enso Village caters to senior living with a range of services and wellness facilities.
If I was going to invest in a property in Healdsburg, I would either buy a place in downtown Healdsburg that could be improved or find a place just outside of downtown in a place like the Lanes, or Greens Drive or just north of Powell which are considerably cheaper but have many of the advantages of a downtown home.
Are You A Healdsburg or Sonoma Person?
For me, Sonoma is more suited to traditionalists who maybe would consider Napa but want to live somewhere with a bit more history and character as well as more options for the type of property to purchase.
If you like to keep yourself to yourself then you can probably be a little more anonymous in Sonoma whereas in Healdsburg, I feel it is a closer-knit community with more integration between everyone who lives here.
If being close to San Francisco is the most important thing, then Sonoma definitely has the edge.
Regardless of your budget, you will likely have more choice in Sonoma and the surrounding areas particularly if you are looking for a turnkey, higher end home just because there are double the number of homes sold every year.
Healdsburg on the other hand is ideal for people who want to move somewhere where they can easily meet people from all sorts of different backgrounds. I have numerous clients who say that they met more people living in Healdsburg for a couple of years than they got to know living in SF for a decade or more.
I also feel like Healdsburg has done an amazing job of balancing the needs of the people who live here and make the town work with the people who are attracted to the area because of what it offers.
Both places are amazing places to live. Personally, I love Healdsburg because of the people. I do also really appreciate the food scene and the diversity of everything from outdoor lifestyle to access to different scenery on our doorstep.
Either way, both cities are great, it just depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for. You’ll love living in either one.
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