Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Laupahoehoe, HI
Considering a move to Laupahoehoe, HI? This small coastal community of 840 offers a laid-back island lifestyle with affordable median home prices around $335,000 and average 2-bedroom rents of $1,150. While the cost of living is above the national average, you'll enjoy a lush tropical climate with warm temperatures and abundant rainfall. Commute times are moderate at 28 minutes, crime rates are relatively low, and the local charter school serves families in town. With beautiful scenery, cultural diversity, and proximity to Hilo’s healthcare and college, Laupahoehoe is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, rural Hawaii experience.
Demographics - Laupahoehoe, HI
Demographics - Laupahoehoe, HI
Laupahoehoe is a small, culturally diverse community of about 840 residents, with a median age of nearly 45 and a slightly higher number of males than females. The population includes a significant mix of Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Asian, and White residents, and over one-fifth of locals speak a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to the area's unique island culture and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
840
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.7
Gender Ratio:
103 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
21.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
29.3%
Asian:
22.9%
Others:
9.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Laupahoehoe, HI?
The cost of living in Laupahoehoe is higher than the U.S. average, with a cost of living index of 134.2 and notable expenses for groceries and utilities. Median home values are around $335,000, and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are about $1,150 per month. Residents should also budget for elevated electricity costs and state taxes that range from 1.4% to 11.0%.
Median House Value:
$335,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$225
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
134.2
Grocery:
152.5
Housing:
124.4
Utilities:
175.0
Transportation:
128.7
Health Care:
114.5
Miscellaneous:
109.0
Crime
Is Laupahoehoe, HI a safe place to live?
Laupahoehoe experiences relatively low violent crime rates, with a 1 in 362 chance of being affected, while property crime is more common at a 1 in 43 chance. The overall crime index suggests that the area is generally safe, but residents should still take standard precautions. These conditions make it a suitable choice for those seeking a quieter, safer lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
276
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,315
Crime Index:
2,591
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 362
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Laupahoehoe, HI year-round?
Laupahoehoe boasts a lush tropical climate with mild temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 60°F in winter to 82°F in summer. The area receives abundant rainfall, averaging 154 inches annually, and enjoys about 44% sunny days. This climate supports vibrant natural scenery and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
60°F
Max:
75°F

Spring
Min:
62°F
Max:
77°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
63°F
Max:
79°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
154 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Households in Laupahoehoe typically have a median income of $36,500, with around 19% of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults have completed high school, and the unemployment rate is moderate at 6.2%. The community is close-knit, with a mix of working families and retirees enjoying a slower pace of life.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$51,900
Family Income:
$58,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,900
Income Male:
$31,500
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
19.2%
Non English Speakers:
21.5%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.3%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
21.7%
Education
How are the schools in Laupahoehoe, HI?
Local families are served by Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School, which provides a small school environment with about 310 students and a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.7. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, only 25 miles away. This setup supports strong educational options from kindergarten through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School
Street:
35-2065 Old Mamalahoa Hwy
Phone:
(808) 962-2200
Students:
310
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7

Colleges
Name:
University of Hawaii at Hilo
City:
Hilo
State:
HI
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong in Laupahoehoe, with Hilo Medical Center located nearby offering full emergency services. Residents benefit from a high health insurance coverage rate of 96.2% and a physician availability rate of 1.6 per 1,000 people. The area provides reliable healthcare support for families and retirees alike.

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:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.2%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Laupahoehoe, HI?
Laupahoehoe offers a stable housing market with a median home price of $335,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of nearly 67%. Home values have appreciated by 6.5% over the past year, while rental options remain accessible with moderate vacancy rates. The market is appealing to both buyers and renters seeking affordability in a scenic location.
Median Home Price:
$335,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services for Laupahoehoe are managed by the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles in nearby Hilo. Residents can handle registration, licensing, and other DMV needs at the Kapiolani Street office or online through the official county website. The convenient location ensures quick access for drivers in the area.
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.