Hayward, CA vs Santa Maria, CA: 200 vs 137

$2,360/mo ↑ 28%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↓ 22%

$113,775/yr ↑ 34%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 26%

$820,700 ↑ 72%

Home Value

$478,200 ↓ 42%

$2,420/mo ↑ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↓ 26%

159,201

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Hayward, CA and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 200 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $518/month cheaper in Santa Maria, saving renters about $6,216/year.

Median household income is $29,158/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Hayward is $820,700 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hayward vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Hayward or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Maria is cheaper to live in with an index of 137 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Hayward and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Hayward is $2,360/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $518/month.

Which city has higher income, Hayward or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $113,775 in Hayward and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $29,158/year higher in Hayward.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Hayward or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Hayward has a cost index of 200 with median rent of $2,360/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Hayward, CA vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Hayward

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons