San Francisco, CA vs Hayward, CA: 267 vs 200

$2,419/mo ↑ 2%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↓ 2%

$141,446/yr ↑ 24%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↓ 20%

$1,380,500 ↑ 68%

Home Value

$820,700 ↓ 41%

$2,620/mo ↑ 8%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↓ 8%

836,321

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $59/month cheaper in Hayward, saving renters about $708/year.

Median household income is $27,671/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Hayward — common questions

Is San Francisco or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Hayward is cheaper to live in with an index of 200 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Hayward?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $59/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Hayward?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $27,671/year higher in San Francisco.

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 Francisco or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Hayward, CA (2026)

San Francisco

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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