Kailua, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Kailua, HI Utility & Living Guide

Living in Kailua, HI offers a unique blend of tropical paradise and small-town charm, with stunning natural beauty and a strong sense of community.

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
🌤️ Live Weather — Kailua
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📷 Live Cameras — Kailua
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kailua
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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 Rate1.29%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Kailua’s housing market is highly competitive, with a limited supply of homes and high demand. The area is known for its expensive real estate, with many homes selling for over $1 million. Rentals are also in high demand, with prices increasing steadily over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

196

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+96% above national average

Groceries

146

Transportation

114

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax4.166%
Property Tax Rate1.29%
<p>State 4.166% + County 0%</p>

Hawaii has a state income tax with a top rate of 11%, but no local income taxes.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tourism, tech, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Kailua has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible buses and a walkable downtown area.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kailua Beach
  • 🎯
    Lanikai Beach
  • 🎯
    Nuuanu Pali State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Kailua include Lanikai, Enchanted Lake, and Kailua Town, which offer a range of housing options, good schools, and easy access to parks and beaches.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Kailua has strict zoning laws and regulations to preserve its natural beauty and small-town character.

Kailua's economy is driven by tourism and military spending, with a growing tech industry. The area is also seeing an increase in remote workers, drawn by its high quality of life and natural beauty.

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📊 Kailua — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Kailua are relatively consistent throughout the year, with minimal seasonal fluctuations. However, residents may see a slight increase in electricity costs during the summer months due to air conditioning usage.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96734 has a property tax millage rate of 1.29%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller.

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