Hayward, CA
Population 159,201 · California
About Hayward, CA
Hayward is a major city in California with a population of 159,201 residents. The median household income is $113,775 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Hayward is 38.2 years.
Housing in Hayward has a median home value of $820,700 and median monthly rent of $2,360. Of the 52,182 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 28,173 owner-occupied and 21,297 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Hayward is 5.9% and the poverty rate is 9.5%. 32.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 33.7 minutes.
How Hayward Ranks in California
Cost of Living in Hayward, CA
Compared to national averages, Hayward has a median household income of $113,775 (51% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $820,700, which is 235% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,360 is 103% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, Hayward's income is 16% above the state average of $97,829, and home values are 26% above the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in Hayward, CA?
Hayward offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $113,775, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 9.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $820,700. However, as a major city, Hayward provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Hayward has a population of 159,201 with a median age of 38.2 years. Compare Hayward with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near Hayward
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corona | 158,839 | $106,438 | $656,500 | Compare |
| Salinas | 161,993 | $89,150 | $610,900 | Compare |
| Sunnyvale | 153,455 | $181,862 | $1,816,600 | Compare |
| Palmdale | 165,487 | $81,151 | $435,300 | Compare |
| Roseville | 152,438 | $117,354 | $630,600 | Compare |
| Escondido | 149,913 | $84,477 | $663,500 | Compare |
| Pomona | 148,391 | $78,869 | $569,600 | Compare |
| Lancaster | 170,013 | $76,083 | $409,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hayward
What is the population of Hayward, CA?
The population of Hayward, CA is 159,201 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Hayward?
The median household income in Hayward, CA is $113,775 per year.
What is the median home value in Hayward?
The median home value in Hayward, CA is $820,700.
What is the average rent in Hayward?
The median monthly rent in Hayward, CA is $2,360.
What is the unemployment rate in Hayward?
The unemployment rate in Hayward, CA is 5.9%.