Papaaloa, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Papaaloa, HI Utility & Living Guide

Pāpaʻaloa is an unincorporated community on the island of Hawaiʻi in Hawaiʻi County, Hawaii, United States. It lies along Hawaii Route 19 north of Hilo, the county seat of Hawaiʻi County. Its elevation is about 300 feet above sea level Because the community has borne multiple names, the Board on Geo

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$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Papaaloa
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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$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Papaaloa is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes. Rentals are available but limited, and prices are higher than in some other parts of the island. Home prices have been increasing steadily over the past few years.

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

7.2/10

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 healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Papaaloa has limited public transportation, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
  • 🎯
    Akaka Falls State Park
  • 🎯
    Mauna Kea Observatory

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Papaaloa are those with easy access to schools, parks, and outdoor recreational areas, such as the Papaaloa Village and the surrounding rural areas. These neighborhoods offer a mix of older and newer homes, with a strong sense of community and a relatively low crime rate.

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📊 Papaaloa — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Papaaloa tend to be higher during the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage, while winter months see lower costs due to mild temperatures. However, the area's tropical climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96780 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10: Papaaloa has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the area's rural nature and limited public transportation can make it challenging to get around without a car. However, the scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a great place to explore with a stroller.

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