2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Novato, CA vs Hayward, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Hayward older or younger than people in Novato?
- The Median Age in Hayward is 11.5 years younger than in Novato.

Are housing costs cheaper in Hayward or Novato?
- Hayward housing costs are 23.7% less expensive than Novato housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Hayward or Novato?
- The average commute for residents of Hayward is 0.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Novato.

Things to do in Novato?
Novato, California is located in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. Novato is home to nearly 56,000 people and offers a mix of rural and urban attractions. Residents enjoy outdoor activities such as Mt. Burdell Open Space Preserve and the Novato Arts Center for its art galleries, plays, and music events. Novato also boasts several shopping destinations in addition to top-notch schools, hospitals and services. With its combination of small-town charm, big-city amenities and access to pristine natural beauty, Novato provides an excellent place to call home.

Things to do in Hayward?
Hayward, California is a vibrant city located in the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to many outdoor attractions such as Don Castro Regional Park and Garin Regional Park, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Hayward. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including galleries and museums. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Hayward has something for everyone!

 Novato, CAHayward, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock162,254329,725,481
 Median Income$107,975  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,052,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time32.59  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Novato    9 Reviews

Lush hills, hiking trails, and easy access to both wine country and San Francisco. We love it here.  More

   |    Reply

Over 10 years ago

Novato is a family oriented community located about 20 miles north of the Golden Gate bridge. The quality of life is excellent here assuming your job pays you enough to  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

We recently moved to a secluded neighborhood in Novato after 25 years in central Marin. While there are fewer restaurants and galleries, we are very pleased with our  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Novato

Reviews for Hayward    4 Reviews

I've lived in Hayward for 20 years. Traditionally a working  More

   |    Reply

Hetchy Hechy water is very pure,the summers are about 78f..warm enough. Winters are sunny for the most part and by average.One University and one College in this small  More

   |    Reply

Over 11 years ago

convenient BART and bus if you have no  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Hayward


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.