Santa Rosa, CA vs Hayward, CA: 172 vs 200

$2,084/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 13%

$97,410/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 17%

$685,000 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 20%

$2,130/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 14%

177,216

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Rosa, CA and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 172 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $276/month cheaper in Santa Rosa, saving renters about $3,312/year.

Median household income is $16,365/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Rosa is $685,000 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Rosa vs Hayward — common questions

Is Santa Rosa or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Santa Rosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 172 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Rosa and Hayward?

Median rent in Santa Rosa is $2,084/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $276/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Rosa or Hayward?

Median household income is $97,410 in Santa Rosa and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $16,365/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 Rosa or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with median rent of $2,084/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 Rosa, CA vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Santa Rosa

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons