Kaunakakai, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Kaunakakai, HI Utility & Living Guide

Living in Kaunakakai, HI offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and stunning natural beauty, with a strong sense of community and a growing economy.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$310/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kaunakakai
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Maui Electric Company
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$60/mo

Department of Water Supply, County of Maui
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Bowman Consulting Group, under contract with the County of Maui
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $310/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 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

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

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 progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

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 in tourism, agriculture, and small businesses
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Kaunakakai has limited public transportation, but the town is relatively small and walkable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kaunakakai Beach
  • 🎯
    Molokai Museum
  • 🎯
    Halawa Valley

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Kaunakakai Town is popular with families, offering a mix of older homes and newer developments, with easy access to schools, shops, and community amenities. The nearby neighborhoods of Hoolehua and Kualapu'u are also desirable, with a more rural feel and stunning natural scenery.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Kaunakakai has strict zoning laws and environmental regulations to protect its natural resources and rural character.

Kaunakakai's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and small businesses, with a growing focus on sustainable energy and eco-tourism. The area's unique cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty make it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.

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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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