San Diego, CA vs Hayward, CA: 197 vs 200

$2,223/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 6%

$104,321/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 9%

$848,500 ↑ 3%

Home Value

$820,700 ↓ 3%

$2,308/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 5%

1,385,061

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $137/month cheaper in San Diego, saving renters about $1,644/year.

Median household income is $9,454/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Hayward — common questions

Is San Diego or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Diego is cheaper to live in with an index of 197 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Hayward?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $137/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Hayward?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $9,454/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 San Diego or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Hayward, CA (2026)

San Diego

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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