Hawaii / Hawaii County

Moving to Hilo, HI

Thinking of making a move to Hilo, HI? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hilo, HI

Considering a move to Hilo, HI? This welcoming community of 45,579 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $410,000 and average rents near $1,350. Commute times average 17 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (35% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Hilo's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Hilo, HI

Hilo has a population of 45,579 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 42 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 17% White, 1% Black, and 35% Asian residents, and over 18% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
45,579
Density
860 per sq mi
Median Age
42.3
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
17.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
17.4%
Black
0.6%
Asian
34.9%
Others
32.4%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Hilo, HI?

The cost of living in Hilo is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 134.7. Median home values are around $410,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,350. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$410,000
Gross Rent
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges
$240
Auto Insurance
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$2,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$650
State Taxes
Low: 1.40%| High: 11.00%
Cost Of Living Index
134.7
Grocery
158.0
Housing
112.0
Utilities
180.5
Transportation
130.0
Health Care
110.0
Miscellaneous
105.0

Crime

Is Hilo, HI a safe place to live?

Hilo is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 334 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 26. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Hawaii.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
334
Property Crimes Per 100k
3,870
Crime Index
4,204
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 299
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 26

Weather

What is the weather like in Hilo, HI year-round?

Hilo experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 83°F and cold winters dipping to 63°F. The area receives about 126 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 35% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
63°F
Max
79°F

Summer

Min
67°F
Max
83°F

Spring

Min
64°F
Max
80°F

Fall

Min
65°F
Max
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches
126 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
35%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $66,800 and a low poverty rate of 18.5%. Over 89% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 28% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 17 minutes, and almost 3% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$28,000
Household Income
$66,800
Family Income
$74,200
Per Capita Income
$27,800
Income Male
$38,200
Income Female
$34,000
Poverty Rate
18.5%
Non English Speakers
17.5%
Rent
$1,350
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
Public Transport Usage
2.6%
Commute Time
17.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
89.2%
Bachelors or More
28.3%

Education

How are the schools in Hilo, HI?

Hilo offers quality education options, with public schools like Hilo High School and Waiakea High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Hawaii at Hilo. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Hilo High School
Street
556 Waianuenue Ave
Phone
808-313-5600
Students
1,040
Student Teacher Ratio
14.2
Name
Waiakea High School
Street
155 W Kawili St
Phone
808-974-4888
Students
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio
15.1

Private Schools

Name
St. Joseph School
Street
1000 Ululani St
Phone
808-935-4936
Students
280

Colleges

Name
University of Hawaii at Hilo
City
Hilo
State
HI
Distance
0 miles
Students
3,300

Healthcare

Hilo residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Hilo Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.2 per 1,000 people and 95.2% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Hilo Medical Center
Address
1190 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone
(808) 932-3000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage
95.2%
Health Care Index
68.5

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Hilo, HI?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $410,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 62%. The market has seen a 3.8% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.5%. Hilo offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate
62.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.8%
New Construction Rate
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Hilo handle vehicle services through the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Hilo. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Hawaii
Department
Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
349 Kapiolani St, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone
(808) 961-8351

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.

FAQs About Moving to Hilo, HI

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Hilo, review the core fields on this page: population 45,579, median home value $410,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,350, commute time 17.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 35%.

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