Montgomery, AL vs Hayward, CA: 64 vs 200

$1,059/mo ↓ 55%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 123%

$55,687/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 104%

$148,500 ↓ 82%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 453%

$1,023/mo ↓ 58%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 137%

198,440

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,301/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $15,612/year.

Median household income is $58,088/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Hayward — common questions

Is Montgomery or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Hayward?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $1,301/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Hayward?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $58,088/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 Montgomery or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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: Montgomery, AL vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Montgomery

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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