Hayward, MN
Population 219 · Minnesota
About Hayward, MN
Hayward is a small community located in Minnesota with a population of 219 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Hayward features a median home value of $109,600, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Hayward one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 104 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (78 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (19 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hayward shows an unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 16.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hayward have an average one-way commute time of 24.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.3% of Hayward residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 10.5% White, 14.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Hayward, MN
Compared to national averages, Hayward has a median household income of $53,750 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $109,600, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Minnesota, Hayward's income is 28% below the state average of $74,221, and home values are 46% below the state median of $204,472.
Why Live in Hayward, MN?
Hayward offers affordable housing with a median home value of $109,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.6%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 24.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,750) that falls below the national average. However, Hayward’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hayward has a population of 219 with a median age of 48.5 years. Compare Hayward with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Minnesota.
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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, MN?
The population of Hayward, MN is 219 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Minnesota.
What is the median household income in Hayward?
The median household income in Hayward, MN is $53,750 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hayward?
The median home value in Hayward, MN is $109,600, which is 55% below 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, MN is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hayward?
The unemployment rate in Hayward, MN is 2.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Hayward, MN a good place to live?
Hayward offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 219 and a median age of 48.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Hayward, MN?
3.3% 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, MN: median home value is $109,600 (55% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $53,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Hayward?
The poverty rate in Hayward, MN is 16.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Hayward, MN?
Hayward's population is 10.5% White, 14.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.7% of residents are foreign-born.