Long Beach, CA vs Hayward, CA: 169 vs 200

$1,803/mo ↓ 24%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 31%

$83,969/yr ↓ 26%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 35%

$762,200 ↓ 7%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 8%

$1,890/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 28%

458,491

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $557/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $6,684/year.

Median household income is $29,806/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Hayward — common questions

Is Long Beach or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Hayward?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $557/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Hayward?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $29,806/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 Long Beach or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Long Beach

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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