Boise, ID vs Hayward, CA: 112 vs 200

$1,359/mo ↓ 42%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 74%

$81,308/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 40%

$456,000 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 80%

$1,337/mo ↓ 45%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 81%

235,701

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boise, ID and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 112 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,001/month cheaper in Boise, saving renters about $12,012/year.

Median household income is $32,467/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boise is $456,000 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

Idaho has a lower income tax rate, making Boise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boise vs Hayward — common questions

Is Boise or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Boise is cheaper to live in with an index of 112 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boise and Hayward?

Median rent in Boise is $1,359/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $1,001/month.

Which city has higher income, Boise or Hayward?

Median household income is $81,308 in Boise and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $32,467/year higher in Hayward.

How do taxes compare between Idaho and California?

Idaho has 5.8% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.63% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Boise or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Boise has a cost index of 112 with median rent of $1,359/mo, while Hayward has a cost index of 200 with rent of $2,360/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Boise, ID vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Boise

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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