Honolulu, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Honolulu, HI Utility & Living Guide

Living in Honolulu offers a unique blend of tropical paradise and urban amenities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$360/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index196 (+96% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$840,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Honolulu
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$200/mo

Hawaiian Electric Company
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$60/mo

Board of Water Supply, City and County of Honolulu
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $360/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2500/mo
3 Bedrooms$3500/mo
Median Home Price$840,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Honolulu is highly competitive, with limited inventory and high demand driving up prices. Renters can expect to pay a premium for apartments and houses, especially in desirable neighborhoods like Waikiki and Kaka’ako. Homebuyers may need to act quickly and be prepared to negotiate to secure a property.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

196

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+96% above national average

Groceries

146

Transportation

119

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax4.166%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 4.166% + No County or City tax</p>

Hawaii has a state income tax with rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%, and Honolulu residents are subject to this tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

65

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue description
Business Momentum
High with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, homelessness
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Honolulu, known as TheBus, has stroller-friendly buses and a relatively accessible route network, but sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure can be limited in some areas.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Waikiki Aquarium
  • 🎯
    Honolulu Zoo
  • 🎯
    Hanauma Bay

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Honolulu include Kaimuki, Manoa, and Kahala, which offer a mix of single-family homes, parks, and community amenities. These areas are generally considered safe and have good access to schools, shopping, and outdoor recreation.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Honolulu based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The City and County of Honolulu has regulations in place to manage growth, protect the environment, and preserve the unique character of the city’s neighborhoods.

Honolulu's economy is experiencing growth in the tech and tourism sectors, with a focus on sustainable development and innovation. However, the city still faces challenges related to affordability, traffic, and infrastructure.

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📊 Honolulu — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In Honolulu, utility costs tend to be higher during the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see lower costs as the temperature cools. However, the city's mild climate means that heating costs are relatively low compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: property tax millage rates range from 1.05 to 1.25, with no local surtaxes specific to Honolulu county

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 7: Honolulu has relatively good sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit can be limited, and family infrastructure like changing tables and nursing rooms may not always be available.

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