Hayward, CA Houses for rent under $3,000

Living in Hayward, CA

Hayward is a city in the East Bay region, which is a part of the San Francisco Bay Area that includes Oakland and Berkeley. The city's pedestrian-friendly downtown offers a mix of housing, shops, offices and restaurants. Buffalo Bill's Brewery in Hayward is one of country's first brewpubs. Just 14 miles south of Oakland and 25 miles southeast of San Francisco, Hayward is conveniently located near major metropolitan areas that can be accessed via Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART).

Hayward is close to a stunning selection of outdoor activities and getaway spots. When you rent in Hayward, you're less than 30 miles from the gorgeous seaside community of Half Moon Bay, and about 45 miles from the redwoods and scenic hiking at Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County. Wine Country opulence awaits in Sonoma County and Napa Valley, which are roughly 70 miles away. Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park are both a three-hour drive away.

Renting in Hayward, CA

Because of its spot in the San Francisco Bay Area, Hayward's rents are high, but the market is not as tight as it is in San Francisco or the cities in Silicon Valley. It's a desirable area for commuters, as well as those looking for a place to raise a family, so have a solid plan when researching apartments for rent in Hayward.

Arts and entertainment

• California State University East Bay, Univerity Theater: See dance performances and plays produced by the university's theater department.
• Chabot College Theater Arts Program: See a variety of performances produced by the university.
• The Douglas Morrisson Theatre: This 250-seat community theater offers plays and musicals year-round.
• Hayward Zucchini Festival: A community festival that includes a zucchini-growing contest, rides, face painting and more.
• Hayward Russel City Blues Festival: The Bay Area Blues Society hosts this annual festival that offers great music and features historical lectures and exhibits.

CSU East Bay in Hayward. (Courtesy of Jennifer Williams) Hayward Shoreline. (Courtesy of Ingrid Taylar)