Santa Ana, CA vs Hayward, CA: 163 vs 200

$1,975/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 19%

$88,354/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 29%

$657,800 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 25%

$1,965/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 23%

311,639

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $385/month cheaper in Santa Ana, saving renters about $4,620/year.

Median household income is $25,421/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Hayward — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Ana is cheaper to live in with an index of 163 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Hayward?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $385/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Hayward?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $25,421/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 Santa Ana or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/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: Santa Ana, CA vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Santa Ana

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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