Hayward, CA vs Oakland, CA: Cost of Living Comparison
Hayward has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Hayward | Oakland | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 179 | 190 | Hayward |
| Housing | 236 ($1,652) | 266 ($1,342) | Hayward |
| Transportation | 105 ($3.50) | 105 ($3.50) | Tie |
| Food & groceries | 152 ($623) | 130 ($533) | Oakland |
| Utilities | 168 ($425) | 183 ($479) | Hayward |
| Healthcare | 168 ($307) | 183 ($346) | Hayward |
| Median annual wage | 120 ($58,240) | 120 ($58,240) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hayward, CA or Oakland, CA cheaper to live in?
Hayward, CA is cheaper overall by about 11 index points (Hayward, CA: 179, Oakland, CA: 190; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Hayward, CA vs Oakland, CA?
A single adult needs roughly $62,650/year in Hayward, CA and $66,500/year in Oakland, CA to cover basic living costs.