Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Keaau, HI
Considering a move to Keaau, HI? This close-knit community of 2,540 residents offers affordable housing with a median home price around $355,000 and average rents near $1,450. You'll enjoy year-round mild temperatures and lush surroundings, though the area sees heavy rainfall and a moderate property crime rate. Keaau features friendly schools, a nearby hospital, and manageable 25-minute commutes—making it a laid-back spot for those seeking a relaxed Hawaiian lifestyle with access to essential amenities.
Demographics - Keaau, HI
Keaau is a small, close-knit community of about 2,540 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 41.6. The population is notably diverse, with significant Native Hawaiian, Asian, and White representation. Around 15% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to a vibrant multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
2,540
Density:
295 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.6
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
15.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
23.5%
Asian:
24.2%
Others:
15.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Keaau, HI?
Living in Keaau means higher-than-average costs, with a cost of living index of 135.1 and a median home value of $355,000. Utilities and groceries tend to be more expensive, and monthly rents average $1,450, reflecting the island’s unique economic factors. While everyday expenses are elevated, residents enjoy the benefits of living in a scenic Hawaiian locale.
Median House Value:
$355,000
Gross Rent:
$1,450
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$220
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11%
Cost Of Living Index:
135.1
Grocery:
151.7
Housing:
127.8
Utilities:
160.2
Transportation:
135.9
Health Care:
120.5
Miscellaneous:
125.3
Crime
Is Keaau, HI a safe place to live?
Keaau experiences a moderate crime rate, with property crime being more common than violent incidents. The chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 42, while violent crime is less frequent at roughly 1 in 235 residents. Community awareness and local policing help maintain a generally safe environment for families and newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
425
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,350
Crime Index:
2,775
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 235
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in Keaau, HI year-round?
Keaau offers mild, tropical weather year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from the low 60s to low 80s Fahrenheit. The area receives abundant rainfall—about 126 inches annually—keeping the landscape lush, though only about half the days are sunny. Residents enjoy a comfortable climate ideal for outdoor activities, despite frequent showers.
Winter
Min:
62°F
Max:
78°F
Spring
Min:
63°F
Max:
79°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
63°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
126 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
The local community in Keaau has a median household income of $62,100 and a poverty rate of nearly 20%, indicating a mix of economic backgrounds. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are a manageable 25 minutes. Public transportation is limited, so most people rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$25,600
Household Income:
$62,100
Family Income:
$69,800
Per Capita Income:
$24,500
Income Male:
$34,700
Income Female:
$28,400
Poverty Rate:
19.7%
Non English Speakers:
15.2%
Rent:
$1,450
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
25.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.1%
Bachelors or More:
24.8%
Education
How are the schools in Keaau, HI?
Keaau offers a supportive educational environment with public schools serving elementary through high school levels, each maintaining reasonable student-teacher ratios. The University of Hawaii at Hilo, a four-year college with about 3,000 students, is located just 10 miles away, providing higher education opportunities. While there are no private schools in town, the area is well-equipped for families seeking quality education options.
Public Schools
Name:
Keaau Elementary School
Street:
16-680 Keaau-Pahoa Rd
Phone:
808-982-4200
Students:
710
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Keaau Middle School
Street:
16-565 Keaau-Pahoa Rd
Phone:
808-982-7500
Students:
680
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Keaau High School
Street:
16-725 Keaau-Pahoa Rd
Phone:
808-313-3300
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Colleges
Name:
University of Hawaii at Hilo
City:
Hilo
State:
HI
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to nearby healthcare services, including Hilo Medical Center just a short drive away, and benefit from a high health insurance coverage rate of over 92%. With approximately 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents, basic medical needs are well served locally. The area’s healthcare index suggests services are accessible and reliable for most families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Hilo Medical Center
Address:
1190 Waianuenue Ave, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone:
(808) 932-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.3%
Health Care Index:
70.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Keaau, HI?
Keaau’s housing market is relatively stable, with a median home price of $355,000 and 74.6% of properties owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom around $1,450 and low vacancy and foreclosure rates. Modest home appreciation and new construction contribute to a steady, appealing market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$355,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,450
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing services for Keaau residents are provided by the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles in nearby Hilo. The DMV office offers assistance with all standard licensing and registration needs, and is easily accessible to local drivers. Residents can find more information or schedule appointments online.
State:
Hawaii
Department:
Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
349 Kapiolani St, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone:
(808) 961-8351
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.