Want Hawaii’s beach lifestyle without Oahu’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Aloha State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Hilo or a starter home in Kahului, Hawaii’s fastest-growing affordable hub on Maui. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Lihue to enjoy a low-cost coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $650,000.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Hawaii to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Cheapest Places to Live in Hawaii in 2026
| City | Median Household Income | Median Home Value | Population | Unemployment Rate | Poverty Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain View | $36,832 | $117,293 | 13,517 | 3.6% | 25.4% |
| Hilo | $41,242 | $131,007 | 5,717 | 3.4% | 15.8% |
| Waianae | $38,904 | $137,298 | 42,215 | 9.7% | 23.1% |
| Honolulu | $50,410 | $148,036 | 8,961 | 3.0% | 21.8% |
| Lihue | $43,879 | $192,544 | 17,054 | 3.7% | 17.7% |
| Ewa Beach | $54,020 | $236,560 | 97,840 | 3.8% | 17.2% |
| Waipahu | $54,015 | $242,819 | 79,009 | 4.3% | 12% |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii
To identify the cheap places to live in Hawaii, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Hawaii Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the Hawaii Housing Finance and Planning Office.
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories—housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods—from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Hawaii Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2026 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2026, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Hawaii cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
7 Cheapest Places to Live in HI
The annual population growth of 5.6% since 2010 is reflective of people’s intention to move to Hawaii. If you’re considering shifting to Hawaii, here are some cities that offer affordable living options:
1. Mountain View
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 20.4%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $322,712 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,800 |
| 🌷 Known For | Akatsuka Orchid Gardens |
Mountain View is an affordable place to live in Hawaii. Its median house rent ranges from $1,550 – $2,000. It also offers affordable housing which is 160.6% lower than the state average.
Mountain View offers a wonderful lifestyle in a small town with plenty of outdoor activities amidst beautiful scenery. Residents can enjoy attractions like Mauna Loa volcano, Richardson Ocean Park for water activities, and Akaka Falls for scenic hikes.
» Homes for Sale in Mountain View, HI: Find your dream home in this city.
2. Hilo
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 20.4%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $484,135 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $1,750 |
| 🏞️ Known For | Akaka Falls State Park |
Hilo is one of the most budget-friendly rental destinations in Hawaii with home rent ranging from $1,202 – $3,900. It also offers affordable transportation costs which are 20.4% less than the state average.
Hilo serves as the county seat for the Big Island and is a major hub for government employment, with opportunities at the Port, Airport, and Military. Hilo is ideal for water activities like swimming at Richardson Ocean Park. Residents can also explore the Hawaiian culture at the Lyman Museum.
» Homes for Sale in Hilo, HI: Browse thousands of property listings in Hilo.
3. Waianae
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 3.5%⬆️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $579,977 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $850 |
| 🏔️ Known For | Waianae Mountain Range Hikes |
With rental costs below the national average, Waianae stands as one of the most affordable cities to live in Hawaii. The house rent price is between $850 – $9,500.
Waianae offers a tranquil lifestyle away from the bustling urban areas. This enables residents to embrace a more relaxed and laid-back way of life.
Additionally, numerous local Hawaiian companies provide excellent entertainment options. The Na Pua Noeau Cultural Center stands out as a hub where individuals can delve into the rich history and culture of Hawaii.
4. Honolulu
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 3.5%⬆️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $774,869 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $2,785 |
| 🏭 Known For | Hormel’s Corporate Headquarters |
Honolulu is one of the best places to live in Hawaii, with a slight year-over-year median home price decline of 1.8% in December 2023. The annual expenditure on food for an individual amounts to $4,571. This makes it one of the most budget-friendly options across the country.
Honolulu offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning landscapes and myriad attractions. Residents can enjoy a stroll along Waikiki Beach or be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of Diamond Head.
Try Hawaii’s Mortgage Calculator to see how much house you can afford. Get an instant amortization schedule and a detailed cost breakdown for free💲.
5. Lihue
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 6.7%⬇️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $816,806 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $2,900 |
| 🏞️ Known For | Wailua Falls |
Lihue’s average individual income is $154,800. The grocery expenses are 11.9% lower than the national average.
Lihue’s proximity to the ocean and wildlife is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents who love activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and surfing find this aspect especially attractive.
The city boasts a robust job growth rate of 36.32%. This indicates a thriving job market, characterized by a low unemployment rate of 3.0%. This is notably lower than the US average of 4.1%.
» Homes for Sale in Lihue, HI: Browse through thousands of properties in this city.
6. Ewa Beach
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 3.5%⬆️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $833,361 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $3,500 |
| 🛳️ Known For | Ocean Joy Cruises |
The house rent in Ewa Beach is between $950 – $9,136. One can easily live in this city with an annual income of $87,200.
Ewa Beach has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a thriving neighborhood. The area now boasts new residential complexes, a modern hospital, and well-designed roads.
Moreover, the crime rate of the city is just 9, which is more than half of the national average of 22.7.
» Homes for Sale in Ewa Beach, HI: Find a home in one of the cheapest places to live in Hawaii.
7. Waipahu
| 🟢 Cost of Living Compared to State Average | 3.5%⬆️ |
| 🏡 Median Home Price | $864,075 |
| 💲 Median Rent | $2,400 |
| 🪴 Known For | Hawaii Plantation Village |
Waipahu offers budget-friendly living with home rent ranging from $950 – $4,990. It also offers affordable groceries which are 11.8% cheaper than the state average.
Waipahu is known as a traditional plantation city. It is known as the agricultural center because of its rich plantation history.
Residents can immerse themselves in plantation life at Hawaii’s Plantation Village. The outdoor museum showcases authentic and replica homes of plantation workers who lived in the area from the mid-1800s to the 1940s.
» Homes For Sale in Waipahu, HI: Get yourself a home in Waipahu.
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Pro Tip If you’re looking for beaches on Oahu’s leeward coast, Oahu could be a great option. From Maili to Nanakuli, you’ll find a wide range of affordable houses in Waianae with strong rental potential.
Hilo and Pahoa are the cheapest and safest cities in Hawaii. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Hawaii for Young Adults
When looking for the least expensive city to live in Hawaii, you want more than just cheap rent. You want good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and a city where you can thrive. These Hawaii cities deliver all three, with affordable housing and growing job markets.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Hilo | Hilo offers Big Island opportunities in eco-tourism, research at UH Hilo, and agriculture. Young professionals can also engage in community events through groups like the Merrie Monarch Festival. Strong job growth and affordable homes make it easier to build wealth here. |
| 2. | Kahului | Home to Maui’s central hub and a thriving logistics scene, the city combines career opportunities with a lively island-town vibe. There’s also an increase in homes for sale in Kahului. |
| 3. | Waianae | Waianae’s growing service, healthcare, and tourism sectors create strong career options, while local community programs support networking. Affordable houses for sale in Waianae also ensure that you don’t spend all your hard-earned money on housing. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Hawaii for Families
Hawaii is a favorite among families for its warm climate, stunning beaches, and affordable housing options outside major tourist areas. These three cities offer low living costs and top-notch schools.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Mountain View | Families enjoy natural wonders like Volcanoes National Park and educational spots near Hilo. Outdoor recreation and pocket-friendly homes for sale in Mountain View make this city a great place for families. |
| 2. | Waipahu | Waipahu offers family programs through local community centers and proximity to quality Oahu schools. These social programs and cheap homes for sale in Waipahu make this city family-friendly. |
| 3. | Mililani | Home to community parks and family attractions, families enjoy year-round entertainment. If you’re looking for suburban amenities and playgrounds, affordable homes for sale in Mililani are your best bet. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii for Retirees
Hawaii is a retiree’s haven. In these cities, you can find affordable homes, accessible healthcare, and safe communities. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and picnics to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Pahoa | Retirees in Pahoa enjoy programs at local senior centers like hula classes, bingo, and fitness sessions. Hilo Medical Center offers trusted senior care services, and the affordable homes for sale in Pahoa make it easy to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. |
| 2. | Keaau | In Keaau, retirees have access to dependable care at Hilo Medical Center, known for rehabilitation services. The peaceful trails and picnic spots near Keaau make it ideal for nature-loving retirees. With affordable homes for sale in Keaau, it’s easy to enjoy a quiet, low-cost retirement. |
| 3. | Honolulu | Honolulu offers an island lifestyle with access to The Queen’s Medical Center for reliable medical care. Senior communities host wellness and social programs. You can find homes for sale in Honolulu and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle close to the beach. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Hawaii
Even in the cheapest Hawaii cities to live in, home prices are only part of the cost. After recent volcanic activity and tropical storms, insurance premiums have risen sharply. So, factor in hurricane, lava flow, and flood coverage along with property taxes when looking for the cheapest area to live in Hawaii.
- Hurricane Insurance: Many homeowners now pay around $8,000–$12,000 yearly, with Oahu coastal areas exceeding $18,000. Inland Big Island cities like Pahoa and Mountain View generally have lower rates.
- Flood & Lava Insurance: Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t include flood or volcanic damage. Policies from FEMA’s NFIP or private insurers now average $2,500–$4,000 per year, rising about 20% annually under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0—especially critical near active zones.
- Property Taxes: Hawaii property taxes typically range from 0.35% to 0.50% of assessed home value (among the nation’s lowest), varying by county but still adding to yearly ownership costs.
Quick Tip Hawaii’s Homestead Exemption allows up to $50,000–$105,000 off the taxable value of your primary residence. However, it does not apply to second homes, vacation properties, or investment rentals.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Hawaii to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Hawaii. Waianae residents save $3,450 monthly compared to Oahu and $1,650 compared to Kahului. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Oahu |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waianae | $278,500 | $1,500 | $400 | $1,226 | $3,450 |
| Kahului | $649,000 | $3,300 | $650 | $2,876 | $1,800 |
| Oahu | $750,700 | $4,000 | $1,200 | $4,676 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Hawaii
Not sure if the cheapest places in Hawaii to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding Pacific states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and endless outdoor recreation, just like Hawaii.
Healthcare
California ranks among the top states for healthcare access with world-class facilities like UCLA Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente networks. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in California:
- Bakersfield: Homes around $350,000, rent under $1,800, and a strong community near energy and agriculture jobs.
- Fresno: Homes around $380,000, rent from $1,400, with career opportunities and cultural diversity around Fresno State University.
- Visalia: Homes near $360,000, rent from $1,500, offering Central Valley charm and agricultural diversity at low costs.
Tax Benefits
Oregon has no sales tax and property taxes averaging 0.9%, with strong homeowner exemptions. These are the top three cheapest places to live in Oregon:
- Coos Bay: Homes around $320,000, rent near $1,200. The job market is supported by timber, healthcare, and port logistics industries.
- Grants Pass: Homes around $340,000, rent near $1,300. The economy is led by manufacturing, retail, and outdoor tourism.
- Klamath Falls: Homes from $310,000, rent $1,100–$1,500. They offer jobs in forestry, healthcare, manufacturing, and geothermal energy.
Natural Environment
Washington offers some of the most affordable coastal towns on the Pacific Northwest, perfect for retirees and families seeking waterfront living at a great value. Here are the cheapest places to live in Washington:
- Hoquiam: Slightly more affordable than Aberdeen, with median home prices around $290,000 and rent from $1,150. It has family-friendly waterfront parks and accessible coastal homes.
- Ocean Shores: Median home price $380,000, rent from $1,400. It’s a budget-friendly Pacific beach town with a relaxed fishing community vibe.
- Aberdeen: Median home price around $310,000, rent from $1,200. A gritty coastal city with gray beaches, mild weather, and outdoor recreation.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Hawaii?
Waianae, Pahoa, and Keaau are the most affordable cities to live in Hawaii. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 20% lower than urban Oahu norms.
Moving to Hawaii also offers valuable tax advantages, with property taxes averaging at 0.35%—among the lowest in the U.S. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the cheapest place to live in Hawaii?
The cheapest place to live in Hawaii is Mountain View. It offers affordable housing, which is 160.6% lower than the state average.
» 7 Cheapest Places to Live in Hawaii: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii the cheapest place to live in?
No, it is not. The median home value is $831,808. If you're looking for cities with affordable housing and a low cost of living, you can try your luck in some of these cheapest places in America.
