Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hayward, WI
Considering a move to Hayward, WI? This small, friendly city of 2,386 residents is known for its scenic Northwoods lifestyle, affordable housing with a median home price of $173,000, and low average rent around $780. Commute times are short at just over 16 minutes, and the area boasts access to good local schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are a bit above the national average, Hayward offers four distinct seasons and plenty of sunny days, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Demographics - Hayward, WI
Demographics - Hayward, WI
Hayward is a small city of 2,386 people with a median age of 45.6, reflecting a mature and close-knit community. The population is predominantly White, with a notable Native American presence, and a balanced gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up a small percentage, adding a touch of diversity to the area.
Population:
2,386
Density:
560 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.6
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.5%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hayward, WI?
Hayward offers a cost of living below the national average, with a median home value of $173,000 and average rent around $780. Utilities and groceries are affordable, and Wisconsin’s state taxes range from moderate to slightly high. This makes Hayward an attractive option for those seeking quality living at a reasonable price.
Median House Value:
$173,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$450
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
74.3
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
95.5
Crime
Is Hayward, WI a safe place to live?
The city experiences a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 427 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 65 chance of property crime. While property crime is higher than the national average, violent crime remains relatively low. Residents can feel generally safe while remaining mindful of property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
234
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,540
Crime Index:
1,774
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 427
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Hayward, WI year-round?
Hayward enjoys four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and pleasantly warm summers reaching highs around 78°F. The area receives about 32.6 inches of rainfall annually, and 56% of days are sunny—ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Residents experience true Northwoods weather, perfect for those who love seasonal change.

Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $41,400 and a poverty rate of 14.2%, reflecting a modest but stable community. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short at just over 16 minutes. Public transportation use is very limited, so personal vehicles are the primary mode of travel.
Median Income:
$30,800
Household Income:
$41,400
Family Income:
$53,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,300
Income Male:
$28,500
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
14.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.7%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.5%
Bachelors or More:
23.7%
Education
How are the schools in Hayward, WI?
Hayward offers quality K-12 education through its public schools, with favorable student-teacher ratios and a supportive learning environment. The city is also home to Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University, and Northwood Technical College is within commuting distance. Families benefit from a range of educational options, both public and private.

Public Schools
Name:
Hayward Intermediate School
Street:
10408 N Greenwood Ln
Phone:
715-634-2619
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Hayward High School
Street:
10320 Greenwood Ln
Phone:
715-634-2619
Students:
490
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5

Private Schools
Name:
Northern Lights Christian Academy
Street:
10818 N State Rd 27/77
Phone:
715-634-0226
Students:
40

Colleges
Name:
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University
City:
Hayward
State:
WI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
550
Name:
Northwood Technical College
City:
Shell Lake
State:
WI
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
1,700
Healthcare
Hayward is served by Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Essentia Health-Hayward Clinic, offering general and emergency care close to home. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% of people insured, healthcare access is strong for a small community. The city’s healthcare index shows reliable services for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Hayward Area Memorial Hospital
Address:
11040 N State Road 77, Hayward, WI 54843
Phone:
(715) 934-4321
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Essentia Health-Hayward Clinic
Address:
11134N State Hwy 77, Hayward, WI 54843
Phone:
(715) 634-5505
Type:
Clinic
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hayward, WI?
The housing market in Hayward is affordable, with median home prices at $173,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $780. Over half of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a healthy rental vacancy rate of 7.8%. Home values are appreciating steadily, making it a promising place to buy or rent.
Median Home Price:
$173,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Hayward’s DMV office is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and is conveniently located downtown. Residents can access a full range of vehicle and licensing services both in person and online. The office provides essential support for drivers and new arrivals in the city.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
201 E. Railroad Street, Hayward, WI 54843
Phone:
(608) 264-7447
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.