Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kaunakakai, HI
Considering a move to Kaunakakai, HI? This close-knit island town has a population of just over 3,400 and offers a relaxed, sunny lifestyle, with 68% sunny days and mild temperatures year-round. Median home prices are around $354,000 and average rents are $1,110, but the cost of living is notably higher than the mainland average. Crime rates are low, commute times are short, and the area features access to local schools and the Molokai General Hospital. If you’re seeking tranquil living and a strong sense of Hawaiian community, Kaunakakai could be your perfect fit.
Demographics - Kaunakakai, HI
Demographics - Kaunakakai, HI
Kaunakakai is a small island community with a population of 3,419, a median age of 44.2, and a population density of 890 people per square mile. The town is predominantly Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, creating a culturally rich environment, and about 13.6% of residents speak a language other than English at home.
Population:
3,419
Density:
890 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
13.1%
Asian:
10.1%
Others:
27.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kaunakakai, HI?
Living in Kaunakakai comes with a higher cost of living, with a median home value of $354,000 and average rent around $1,110. Groceries and utilities are more expensive compared to the national average, reflecting the town’s remote island location.
Median House Value:
$354,000
Gross Rent:
$1,110
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$205
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,750
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
161.2
Grocery:
156.0
Housing:
171.0
Utilities:
170.5
Transportation:
121.1
Health Care:
113.0
Miscellaneous:
138.0
Crime
Is Kaunakakai, HI a safe place to live?
Kaunakakai is considered relatively safe, with low violent crime rates of 180 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 555 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime occurs more frequently, but overall, the crime rate remains below many urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,520
Crime Index:
1,700
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 66
Weather
What is the weather like in Kaunakakai, HI year-round?
Residents enjoy a tropical climate with mild temperatures ranging from winter lows of 62°F to summer highs of 87°F and about 68% sunny days each year. Annual rainfall averages 34 inches, making for lush landscapes and comfortable outdoor living.
Winter
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F
Spring
Min:
65°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
67°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
68%
Neighbors
Kaunakakai has a median household income of $53,750 and a family income of $63,100, though around 21% of residents live below the poverty line. Most people commute just over 15 minutes, and the community is known for its laid-back, local-oriented lifestyle.
Median Income:
$27,200
Household Income:
$53,750
Family Income:
$63,100
Per Capita Income:
$21,400
Income Male:
$33,200
Income Female:
$27,500
Poverty Rate:
21.3%
Non English Speakers:
13.6%
Rent:
$1,110
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
15.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.3%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Kaunakakai, HI?
Kaunakakai offers local public schools with small class sizes, such as Kaunakakai Elementary and Molokai High School, as well as a private school and a community college campus. Educational opportunities are accessible, supporting families and adult learners in the area.
Public Schools
Name:
Kaunakakai Elementary School
Street:
30 Ailoa St
Phone:
808-553-1730
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Molokai High School
Street:
2140 Farrington Ave
Phone:
808-567-6950
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
Molokai Baptist School
Street:
200 Kamehameha V Hwy
Phone:
808-567-6693
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
University of Hawaii Maui College – Molokai Education Center
City:
Kaunakakai
State:
HI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
210
Healthcare
Healthcare in Kaunakakai is anchored by Molokai General Hospital, offering general and emergency services. With 93.7% of residents insured and access to 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people, basic medical needs are well supported for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Molokai General Hospital
Address:
280 Homeolu Place, Kaunakakai, HI 96748
Phone:
(808) 553-5331
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kaunakakai, HI?
The housing market features a median home price of $354,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,110, with owner-occupied homes making up nearly 62% of the market. Home values have seen modest appreciation, and vacancy rates remain low, indicating stable demand.
Median Home Price:
$354,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,110
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and licensing services locally at the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles in Kaunakakai, conveniently located on Ainoa Street. The office provides standard DMV services for Molokai residents.
State:
Hawaii
Department:
Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles (Molokai)
Address:
100 Ainoa St, Kaunakakai, HI 96748
Phone:
(808) 553-3430
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.