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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Hayward older or younger than people in Ridgecrest?
- The Median Age in Hayward is 0.0 years older than in Ridgecrest.

Are housing costs cheaper in Hayward or Ridgecrest?
- Hayward housing costs are 226.9% more expensive than Ridgecrest housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Hayward or Ridgecrest?
- The average commute for residents of Hayward is 9.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Ridgecrest.

Things to do in Ridgecrest?
Located in the Indian Wells Valley of the Mojave Desert, Ridgecrest is a city in Kern County known for its rich cultural and recreational activities. With a population of over 27,000, this growing city offers attractions such as the desert landscape and nearby mountains, along with local events and recreation opportunities.

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!

 Ridgecrest, CAHayward, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock162,254329,725,481
 Median Income$77,534  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$245,600  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Ridgecrest    7 Reviews

For context, I grew up in Ridgecrest and moved away after graduating high school. I have since lived in LA and the Bay Area but I visit RC often. RC is in the high  More

   |    Reply

Ridgecrest and Kern County are red state bastions in a land of blue voting counties. If you want a concealed weapons permit, you'll get it. Want to own any firearm  More

   |    Reply

Over 13 years ago

The hardest thing to get used to in Ridgecrest is the weather. It can get quite windy. And hot. 115 hot. But it's a dry heat! It does cool off in the evening, and it  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ridgecrest

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.