Mobile, AL vs Hayward, CA: 66 vs 200

$1,029/mo ↓ 56%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 129%

$51,090/yr ↓ 55%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 123%

$170,300 ↓ 79%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 382%

$1,016/mo ↓ 58%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 138%

185,097

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mobile, AL and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 66 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,331/month cheaper in Mobile, saving renters about $15,972/year.

Median household income is $62,685/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mobile is $170,300 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Mobile slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mobile vs Hayward — common questions

Is Mobile or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mobile is cheaper to live in with an index of 66 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mobile and Hayward?

Median rent in Mobile is $1,029/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $1,331/month.

Which city has higher income, Mobile or Hayward?

Median household income is $51,090 in Mobile and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $62,685/year higher in Hayward.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and California?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Mobile or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Mobile has a cost index of 66 with median rent of $1,029/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: Mobile, AL vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Mobile

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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