Makaweli, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Makaweli, 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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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Makaweli
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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 Makaweli is competitive, with a mix of older homes and new developments. Rentals are scarce, and prices are relatively high due to the area’s natural beauty and limited supply. Buyers can expect to pay a premium for properties with ocean views or large parcels of land.

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 progressive state income tax system, 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

Makaweli has limited public transportation options, but the area is relatively flat and walkable, making it accessible 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 areas surrounding Makaweli Town, Kekaha, and Waimea are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. These neighborhoods offer a mix of older homes and new developments, with a strong sense of community and rural charm.

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📊 Makaweli — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Makaweli tend to be higher during the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see a slight decrease in costs. 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 96796 has a property tax millage rate of 1.05%, with no local surtaxes specific to Kauai County.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Makaweli has wide sidewalks and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. However, some areas lack elevator access in public buildings, and park access can be limited in certain neighborhoods.

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