Pahoa, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Pahoa, HI Utility & Living Guide

Pāhoa is a census-designated place (CDP) in the District of Puna in Hawai‘i County, Hawai‘i, United States. The population was 924 at the 2020 census. The population dropped by 1.8% from 945 in the 2010 census.

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$340,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Pahoa
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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$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Pahoa is competitive, with a mix of older homes and new constructions. Rentals are scarce, and prices are rising due to tourism and remote work demand. Buyers can expect to pay a premium for properties with ocean views or proximity to volcanic landscapes

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

$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

55

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 in tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, traffic and infrastructure, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Pahoa's public transit system is limited, but the town's compact size and pedestrian-friendly roads make it accessible for families with strollers

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Lava Tree State Park
  • 🎯
    MacKenzie State Recreation Area
  • 🎯
    Pahoa Pool

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Pahoa include the downtown area, with its shops and restaurants, and the surrounding subdivisions, which offer a mix of older and newer homes. The coastal areas, such as Kapoho and Kalapana, are also popular for their scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Pahoa has regulations on short-term rentals, and the county has implemented measures to mitigate the impact of tourism on local infrastructure

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📊 Pahoa — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Pahoa fluctuate seasonally, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning usage, and lower bills in the winter. However, the town's mild climate means that heating costs are relatively low compared to other parts of the country

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96778 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and a compact downtown area, but limited elevator access in some public buildings and transit systems

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