Tempe, AZ vs Hayward, CA: 120 vs 200

$1,623/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$2,360/mo ↑ 45%

$77,643/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$113,775/yr ↑ 47%

$421,900 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$820,700 ↑ 95%

$1,554/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$2,420/mo ↑ 56%

186,419

Population

159,201

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Hayward, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 200 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $737/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $8,844/year.

Median household income is $36,132/year higher in Hayward. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $820,700 in Hayward.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Hayward — common questions

Is Tempe or Hayward cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 200 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Hayward?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Hayward it's $2,360/month — a difference of $737/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Hayward?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $113,775 in Hayward. Median household income is $36,132/year higher in Hayward.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Hayward?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/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: Tempe, AZ vs Hayward, CA (2026)

Tempe

Hayward

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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