Hayward, CA
Population 159,201 · California
About Hayward, CA
Hayward is a major city located in California with a population of 159,201 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $113,775 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Hayward features a median home value of $820,700, which is 235% above the national median of $244,900. This places Hayward in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,360, 103% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 52,182 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (28,173 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (21,297 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hayward shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Hayward have an average one-way commute time of 33.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.6% of Hayward residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 30.3% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 9.6% Asian residents, with 42.0% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Hayward With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hayward
What is the population of Hayward, CA?
The population of Hayward, CA is 159,201 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in California.
What is the median household income in Hayward?
The median household income in Hayward, CA is $113,775 per year, which is 51% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hayward?
The median home value in Hayward, CA is $820,700, which is 235% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Hayward?
The median monthly rent in Hayward, CA is $2,360, which is 103% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hayward?
The unemployment rate in Hayward, CA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Hayward, CA a good place to live?
Hayward offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 159,201 and a median age of 38.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Hayward, CA?
32.6% of residents in Hayward aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Hayward?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hayward, CA: median home value is $820,700 (235% above national), median rent is $2,360/month, and median household income is $113,775. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.2x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Hayward?
The poverty rate in Hayward, CA is 9.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Hayward, CA?
Hayward's population is 30.3% White, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 9.6% Asian, and 8.7% two or more races. 42.0% of residents are foreign-born.