Hawi, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Hawi, HI Utility & Living Guide

Hāwī is a census-designated place (CDP) in Hawaiʻi County, Hawaii. The population was 2,268 at the time of the 2020 United States census.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Hawi
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Hawi
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Hawaii Electric Light Company
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Hawaii County Department of Water Supply
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Hawaii County Department of Environmental Management
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.05%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Hawi is relatively small and competitive, with a mix of older homes and newer constructions. Prices have been steadily increasing in recent years, making it essential for buyers to act quickly. Rentals are also in high demand, particularly for short-term vacation rentals

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax4.166%
Property Tax Rate1.05%
<p>State 4.166% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Hawaii has a state income tax with rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description, with a strong focus on environmental conservation and social justice
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Hawi has a limited public transportation system, but the town is relatively small and walkable, making it accessible for families with strollers

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Hapuna Beach
  • 🎯
    Mauna Kea Beach
  • 🎯
    Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods of Hawi Town, Kapaau, and Waimea are popular with families, offering a mix of old and new homes, parks, and community amenities. These areas are also close to schools, shops, and restaurants, making them convenient for families

Household Budget Calculator

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📰 Live Local News

Hawaii County has regulations in place to protect the environment and preserve the natural beauty of the area, including restrictions on short-term rentals and development

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📊 Hawi — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Hawi tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills ranging from $150 to $200 per month. In the winter months, utility costs are relatively stable, with average bills ranging from $100 to $150 per month

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96719 has a property tax millage rate of 1.05%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and family-friendly infrastructure, but limited elevator access in some older buildings

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