Papaikou, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Papaikou, HI Utility & Living Guide

Pāpaʻikou is a census-designated place (CDP) in Hawaii County, Hawaii, United States, and is a few miles north of the county seat, Hilo. The population of Pāpaʻikou was 1,166 at the 2020 census, down from 1,431 at the 2000 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$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Papaikou
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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$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Papaikou is relatively affordable compared to other areas on the Big Island, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, the market can be competitive, and prices are rising due to the area’s growing popularity. Rentals are also available, but may be limited in terms of availability and affordability

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%</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 tourism, agriculture, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, job market
🚌 Transit for Families

Papaikou has limited public transportation options, 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
  • 🎯
    Hilo Lyman Museum

Best Neighborhoods for Families

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

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📊 Papaikou — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Papaikou can fluctuate by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to increased air conditioning usage, and lower bills in the winter. However, the area's mild tropical climate means that heating costs are generally low, and many homes do not have central heating systems

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96781, which includes Papaikou, has a property tax millage rate of 1.1, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6/10, with explanation: Papaikou has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks, but the area's rural roads and lack of public transportation options can make it challenging to get around without a car, and elevator access in transit is limited

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