Kapaau, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Kapaau, HI Utility & Living Guide

Living in Kapaau, a small town on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers a unique blend of rural charm and stunning natural beauty.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$370/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index120 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$380,000
🌤️ Live Weather — Kapaau
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📷 Live Cameras — Kapaau
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kapaau
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$200/mo

Hawaii Electric Light Company
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$60/mo

Department of Water Supply, County of Hawaii
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Hawaii County Solid Waste Division
📶 Internet

$80/mo

Combined Average Overhead $370/month

Housing Market

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

The housing market in Kapaau is relatively small and competitive, with a mix of older homes and newer constructions. Rentals are scarce, and prices are higher than in some other parts of the island. However, the town’s natural beauty and rural charm make it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

120

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

110

Transportation

90

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax4.166%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<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
8/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, agriculture, and small business
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Pololu Valley
  • 🎯
    Hawi Town
  • 🎯
    Kapaau Beach Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Kapaau include the town center, which offers easy access to shops and restaurants, and the surrounding rural areas, which provide a more peaceful and natural environment. However, the town's small size means that most neighborhoods are relatively family-friendly.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Kapaau has regulations in place to protect its natural environment and preserve its rural character, including restrictions on development and zoning ordinances.

The current financial trends in Kapaau are driven by the town's growing tourism industry and the increasing popularity of the Big Island as a destination for remote workers. However, the town's economy is also vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market and the potential impacts of climate change.

Financial Tools

Calculators
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📊 Kapaau — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Kapaau tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a decrease in energy consumption. However, the town's mild climate means that heating costs are relatively low compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96755 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10, with explanation: Kapaau has relatively good sidewalk quality and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure such as changing tables and nursing rooms may be scarce in some areas.

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