Lawai, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Lawai, 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$310/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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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Lawai
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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

$60/mo

Kauai Department of Water
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Kauai County Department of Public Works
📶 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$420,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Lawai is competitive, with a mix of older homes and new constructions. Prices have been rising due to the area’s popularity with tourists and retirees. Rentals are scarce, and tenants should be prepared to act quickly when a unit becomes available.

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 Rate1.1%
<p>State 4.166% + No County or City tax</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
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Lawai has a limited public transit system, but the Kauai Bus provides some accessibility for strollers and families.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kauai Children's Discovery Museum
  • 🎯
    Lydgate Beach Park
  • 🎯
    Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Lawai are those with easy access to beaches and outdoor recreation, such as the Lawai Road area. These neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with a strong sense of community. The nearby town of Koloa also offers a range of family-friendly amenities and activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Lawai has regulations regarding short-term rentals, and residents should be aware of these rules to avoid fines.

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📊 Lawai — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lawai tend to be higher in the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in costs. However, the mild tropical climate means that heating costs are generally low throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96765 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: Lawai has some sidewalks and park access, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure is still developing.

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