Pahala, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Pahala, HI Utility & Living Guide

Pāhala is a census-designated place (CDP) in Hawaiʻi County, Hawaiʻi, United States. The population was 1,403 at the 2020 census.

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

Hawaii County Department of Water Supply
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Hawaii County Department of Environmental Management
📶 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$900

The housing market in Pahala is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, and prices may vary depending on location and amenities. The area is popular with families and retirees.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$900

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 a top rate of 11%, but no local income taxes are imposed.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/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 agriculture, tourism, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Pahala has limited public transportation, but the area is relatively flat and easy to navigate with a stroller.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Pahala Community Park
  • 🎯
    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
  • 🎯
    Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Pahala are the areas surrounding the community park, which offer a safe and welcoming environment. The town's central area is also popular, with its shops, restaurants, and community events.

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📊 Pahala — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Pahala 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.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96777 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes imposed.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10, with explanation: Pahala has decent sidewalk quality and park access, but limited elevator access in transit and some areas with rough terrain, making it moderately stroller-friendly.

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