Kapaa, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Kapaa, HI Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

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$420,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Kapaa
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kapaa
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Kauai Department of Water
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Kauai County Department of Public Works
📶 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$420,000
Property Tax Rate1.05%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Kapaa is competitive, with a mix of older homes and new developments. Rentals are scarce, and prices are higher than in some other parts of the island. However, the area’s natural beauty and small-town charm make it a desirable place to live.

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
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, agriculture, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Kapaa has a limited public transportation system, but it is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible buses and pedestrian-friendly roads

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kapaa Beach
  • 🎯
    Lydgate Beach Park
  • 🎯
    Kauai Children's Discovery Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Kapaa include the downtown area, which offers a mix of old and new homes, and the surrounding suburbs, which provide more space and a quieter atmosphere. The area is generally safe and welcoming, with a strong sense of community.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Kapaa has regulations in place to protect its natural environment and preserve its small-town character, including restrictions on development and zoning laws

Financial Tools

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📊 Kapaa — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Kapaa tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a decrease in costs. However, the temperature remains relatively consistent throughout the year, minimizing the need for heating.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96746 has a property tax millage rate of 1.05%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller, although some areas may have limited elevator access in transit

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