Ookala, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Ookala, 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$1100/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Hawaii Electric Light Company
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Department of Water Supply, County of Hawaii
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Hawaii County Solid Waste Division
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Ookala is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, the inventory of homes for sale can be limited, and prices may be higher than in other parts of the island. Rentals are also available, but may be scarce.

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% + 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

7/10

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

Public transit in Ookala is limited, but the area is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
  • 🎯
    Akaka Falls State Park
  • 🎯
    Hilo Farmers Market

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Ookala include the areas surrounding the town center, which offer a mix of older and newer homes, as well as easy access to parks and outdoor recreational areas. The nearby town of Hilo also offers a range of family-friendly amenities and activities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Ookala is subject to Hawaii County regulations, including zoning and land use ordinances.

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📊 Ookala — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Ookala can fluctuate by season, with higher electricity costs in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and lower costs in the winter. However, the area's mild climate means that heating costs are relatively low.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96774 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and family-friendly infrastructure, but limited public transit options.

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