Hayward, CA vs Kansas City, KS: 200 vs 65

$2,360/mo ↑ 120%

Median Rent

$1,073/mo ↓ 55%

$113,775/yr ↑ 92%

Median Income

$59,183/yr ↓ 48%

$820,700 ↑ 458%

Home Value

$147,100 ↓ 82%

$2,420/mo ↑ 130%

Owner Costs

$1,054/mo ↓ 56%

159,201

Population

154,776

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Hayward, CA and Kansas City, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 200 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,287/month cheaper in Kansas City, saving renters about $15,444/year.

Median household income is $54,592/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Hayward is $820,700 compared to $147,100 in Kansas City.

Kansas City has a lower income tax rate, making Kansas City slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hayward vs Kansas City — common questions

Is Hayward or Kansas City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Kansas City is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Hayward and Kansas City?

Median rent in Hayward is $2,360/month and in Kansas City it's $1,073/month — a difference of $1,287/month.

Which city has higher income, Hayward or Kansas City?

Median household income is $113,775 in Hayward and $59,183 in Kansas City. Median household income is $54,592/year higher in Hayward.

How do taxes compare between California and Kansas?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Hayward or Kansas City?

It depends on your priorities. Hayward has a cost index of 200 with median rent of $2,360/mo, while Kansas City has a cost index of 65 with rent of $1,073/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Hayward, CA vs Kansas City, KS (2026)

Hayward

Kansas City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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