- Hayward is a city located in Alameda County, California, United States. It is in the eastern part of the San Francisco Bay Area and has a population of around 159,620 people as of 2019. Hayward is known for its diverse community, industrial and commercial areas, and its close proximity to major transportation networks such as Interstate 880 and the Hayward Executive Airport. The city also has various parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy.