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Kaunakakai, HI Utility & Living Guide
Kaunakakai is a census-designated place (CDP) in Maui County, Hawaiʻi, United States. It is the largest town on the island of Molokaʻi. The population was 3,419 at the 2020 census. It has the largest port on the island and the longest pier in Hawaii. The town was made famous in the 1930s by the song
Monthly Utility Costs
$150/mo
—
$60/mo
$30/mo
$70/mo
Housing Market
| Rent & Property | |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1400/mo |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1800/mo |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2400/mo |
| Median Home Price | $380,000 |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.1% |
| Avg Childcare/mo | $1200 |
The housing market in Kaunakakai is relatively small and competitive, with a mix of older homes and newer developments. Rentals are scarce, and prices are rising due to the area’s growing popularity. Buyers can expect to pay a premium for properties with ocean views or proximity to town.
Cost of Living
110
+10% above national average
105
92
102
$1200
Tax Rates
| Tax Overview | |
|---|---|
| Total Sales Tax | 4.166% |
| Property Tax Rate | 1.1% |
| <p>State 4.166% + County 0% + City 0%</p> | |
Hawaii has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%.
Family & Relocation
40
7.2/10
$1200/mo
City Pulse
Kaunakakai has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.
- Kaunakakai Beach
- Molokai Museum
- Halawa Valley
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Household Budget Calculator
Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Kaunakakai based on your household profile.
📰 Live Local News
Kaunakakai has strict zoning laws and environmental regulations to protect its natural resources and rural character.
Financial Tools
- Income Tax CalculatorEstimate take-home pay by state
- Mortgage CalculatorMonthly payment estimator
- Affordability CalculatorHow much home can you afford?
- Childcare Cost EstimatorCompare daycare costs by city
- Retirement PlannerRetirement readiness check
- Car Lease CalculatorMonthly lease payment estimator
- Savings CalculatorGrow your emergency fund
- City Comparison ToolCompare cities side by side
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📊 Kaunakakai — Census & Demographic Data
Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.
☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs
Utility costs in Kaunakakai tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in energy consumption. However, the area's mild climate means that heating costs are relatively low compared to other parts of the country.
🏛️ Local Tax Details
The ZIP code 96748 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes.
👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness
Score 6: Kaunakakai has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the town's rural character and limited public transportation can make it challenging for families with young children to get around without a car.
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