Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hanalei, HI
Considering a move to Hanalei, HI? This small coastal town of about 350 residents offers stunning natural beauty, a tropical climate with 60% sunny days, and a relaxed lifestyle. Housing prices are high, with a median home value of $1,250,000 and average rents around $2,400, reflecting the area's desirability. Violent crime rates are low at 200 per 100K, and most commutes take under 20 minutes. Hanalei is served by a well-rated elementary school and is close to healthcare facilities in Lihue, making it ideal for those seeking island living with essential amenities nearby.
Demographics - Hanalei, HI
Demographics - Hanalei, HI
Hanalei is a close-knit community of around 350 people, with a median age of 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is ethnically diverse, including a majority White population and significant Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and multiracial residents. About 13% of locals speak a language other than English at home, reflecting the area's multicultural character.
Population:
350
Density:
150 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
52.0%
Asian:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hanalei, HI?
Living in Hanalei comes with a high cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $1.25 million and average monthly rent of $2,400. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are well above national averages, making this beautiful coastal town best suited to those prepared for premium island prices. State taxes range from 1.4% to 11%, further impacting overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$1,250,000
Gross Rent:
$2,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$290
Auto Insurance:
$1,170
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$880
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
170.0
Grocery:
155.0
Housing:
240.0
Utilities:
180.0
Transportation:
140.0
Health Care:
130.0
Miscellaneous:
120.0
Crime
Is Hanalei, HI a safe place to live?
Hanalei experiences low violent crime rates, with only about 200 incidents per 100,000 people. Property crime is more common, but the overall crime rate remains below many urban areas, offering newcomers a relatively safe and peaceful environment. Residents have a 1 in 500 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to the town's laid-back lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
200
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,550
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 500
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Hanalei, HI year-round?
Hanalei enjoys a tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round, ranging from the low 60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. The area receives abundant rainfall—about 78 inches annually—yet still boasts 60% sunny days, perfect for enjoying its lush landscapes. This weather supports the region’s vibrant natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
61°F
Max:
78°F
Spring
Min:
64°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
66°F
Max:
82°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
78 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Residents of Hanalei benefit from a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $85,500 and a low unemployment rate of 3.7%. The majority of adults have completed high school, and nearly a third hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Most people commute less than 20 minutes to work, making for an easygoing daily routine.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$85,500
Family Income:
$92,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$35,000
Poverty Rate:
10.2%
Non English Speakers:
13.0%
Rent:
$2,400
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.0%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
31.5%
Education
How are the schools in Hanalei, HI?
Education in Hanalei is anchored by Hanalei Elementary School, known for its close-knit environment and a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.5. While there are no local private schools, students seeking higher education can attend Kauai Community College in nearby Lihue, about 28 miles away. The community values education, with most adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Hanalei Elementary School
Street:
5-5415 Kuhio Hwy
Phone:
808-826-4300
Students:
215
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
Kauai Community College
City:
Lihue
State:
HI
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Hanalei residents have access to quality healthcare services, including Wilcox Medical Center in nearby Lihue, which offers general and emergency care. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and 94% health insurance coverage, the community is well-served for medical needs. The area maintains a strong healthcare index, supporting overall well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wilcox Medical Center
Address:
3-3420 Kuhio Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
Phone:
(808) 245-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.0%
Health Care Index:
81.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hanalei, HI?
The Hanalei housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $1,250,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,400. About 54% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees steady appreciation, with home values rising 4.1% in the past year. Rental vacancies remain low, reflecting strong demand for local housing.
Median Home Price:
$1,250,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Hanalei residents handle vehicle services through the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles, located in Lihue. The DMV offers licensing, registration, and other essential services, and can be reached at (808) 241-4256 or via their website for convenient information. This central location serves all of Kauai efficiently.
State:
Hawaii
Department:
Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4444 Rice Street, Suite A480, Lihue, HI 96766
Phone:
(808) 241-4256
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.