Waimea, HI Utility & Living Guide

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Waimea, 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$1400/mo
Sales Tax4.166%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$420,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Waimea
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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$420,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Waimea is relatively competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are scarce, and prices have been increasing in recent years. However, the area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities make it an attractive choice for many.

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 progressive state income tax system, 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 agriculture, tourism, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, environmental protection
🚌 Transit for Families

Waimea has limited public transportation options, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some stroller-friendly sidewalks and paths.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Waimea Valley
  • 🎯
    Hapuna Beach
  • 🎯
    Mauna Kea Observatory

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The areas around Waimea Town and Kamuela are popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes, parks, and community amenities. The nearby suburbs of Kailua-Kona and Hilo also offer a range of housing options and amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Waimea has regulations in place to protect its natural environment and agricultural lands, including restrictions on development and zoning ordinances.

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📊 Waimea — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Waimea 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 trade winds and tropical climate mean that energy costs remain relatively consistent throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 96743 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 6: Waimea has some stroller-friendly sidewalks and paths, particularly in the town center and near parks, but elevator access in transit is limited, and family infrastructure such as changing tables and nursing rooms may be scarce in some areas.

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