Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Makawao, HI
Considering a move to Makawao, HI? This charming Upcountry Maui town has a population of around 7,300, offering a blend of rural tranquility and Hawaiian culture. Median home prices are high at $937,000 and average rents are about $2,250, reflecting the desirable location. Crime rates are low, commutes average just 22 minutes, and you’ll enjoy a mild climate with 65% sunny days. The area features reputable schools and access to quality healthcare, making Makawao a wonderful option for families and those seeking an island lifestyle.
Demographics - Makawao, HI
Demographics - Makawao, HI
Makawao is home to about 7,300 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 44, reflecting a mature and diverse community. The population includes significant White, Asian, and Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander groups, and over 16% speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the town's rich cultural tapestry.
Population:
7,297
Density:
681 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
16.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
35.2%
Asian:
23.4%
Others:
18.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Makawao, HI?
Living in Makawao comes with a high cost of living, as indicated by a median home value of $937,000 and average rents near $2,250. The cost of groceries, utilities, and housing are notably above national averages, making it important for newcomers to budget accordingly for this sought-after Maui location.
Median House Value:
$937,000
Gross Rent:
$2,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$270
Auto Insurance:
$1,310
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$760
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
165
Grocery:
152
Housing:
228
Utilities:
190
Transportation:
140
Health Care:
120
Miscellaneous:
112
Crime
Is Makawao, HI a safe place to live?
Makawao experiences low violent crime rates, with a 1 in 487 chance, but property crime is more common, with a 1 in 43 chance. While the area is generally considered safe, residents are encouraged to remain mindful about property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
205
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,350
Crime Index:
2,555
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 487
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Makawao, HI year-round?
Makawao enjoys a mild, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 80s and about 65% sunny days. The area receives substantial rainfall, averaging 70 inches annually, supporting lush scenery and a comfortable island lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
56°F
Max:
77°F

Spring
Min:
58°F
Max:
79°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
59°F
Max:
80°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
70 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
Residents of Makawao benefit from a strong community, with a median household income of $94,500 and a low poverty rate of 7.8%. The majority of adults have completed high school, and average commute times are a manageable 22 minutes, making it an appealing place for professionals and families.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$94,500
Family Income:
$111,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,100
Income Male:
$49,800
Income Female:
$41,200
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
16.2%
Rent:
$2,250
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
2.3%
Commute Time:
22.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.5%
Bachelors or More:
29.8%
Education
How are the schools in Makawao, HI?
Makawao features reputable public schools such as Makawao Elementary and Kalama Intermediate, as well as private options like Seabury Hall. The area is also within easy reach of higher education at University of Hawaii Maui College, just 11 miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
Makawao Elementary School
Street:
3542 Baldwin Ave
Phone:
808-573-8770
Students:
476
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Kalama Intermediate School
Street:
120 Makani Rd
Phone:
808-573-8735
Students:
786
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9

Private Schools
Name:
Seabury Hall
Street:
480 Olinda Rd
Phone:
808-572-7235
Students:
450

Colleges
Name:
University of Hawaii Maui College
City:
Kahului
State:
HI
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Makawao offers convenient access to quality healthcare, including Maui Memorial Medical Center in nearby Wailuku, and boasts a high health insurance coverage rate of 95%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, locals can expect reliable medical services close to home.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Maui Memorial Medical Center
Address:
221 Mahalani St, Wailuku, HI 96793
Phone:
(808) 244-9056
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.1%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Makawao, HI?
Makawao's housing market is competitive, with a median home price just under $1 million and owner-occupied homes making up over 70% of the market. Home values have appreciated steadily in recent years, reflecting strong demand and the area's desirability.
Median Home Price:
$937,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services for Makawao residents are managed by the Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles in Maui County, located in Kahului. The DMV offers standard services and can be reached by phone or online for appointments and information.
State:
Hawaii
Department:
Hawaii Department of Motor Vehicles (Maui County)
Address:
110 Ala'ihi St #101, Kahului, HI 96732
Phone:
808-270-7363
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.