Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wahiawa, HI
Thinking of moving to Wahiawa, HI? With a population of 18,900, Wahiawa offers a lush tropical climate, a diverse community, and a laid-back island lifestyle. Expect a higher cost of living—median home prices are around $720,000 and average rents are about $2,100. Crime rates are a bit higher than the national average, but the area provides convenient access to local schools, healthcare, and the natural beauty of central Oahu. Enjoy mild weather year-round and a welcoming multicultural vibe as you settle into your new Hawaiian home.
Demographics - Wahiawa, HI
Demographics - Wahiawa, HI
Wahiawa is home to about 18,900 residents with a median age of 36.2, reflecting a vibrant and diverse community where nearly one-third identify as Asian and over 20% as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a significant multicultural presence, with almost 18% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a neighborly feel while maintaining the area's unique island character.
Population:
18,900
Density:
3,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
10.1%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
30.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wahiawa, HI?
The cost of living in Wahiawa is notably higher than the national average, with a median home value of $720,000 and average monthly rent around $2,100. Utilities and groceries are also above mainland prices, and state income taxes range from 1.4% to 11.0%. Prospective residents should budget carefully, but many find the beautiful surroundings and amenities worth the premium.
Median House Value:
$720,000
Gross Rent:
$2,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$290
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
1.4%
|
High:
11.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
165.3
Grocery:
149.8
Housing:
195.6
Utilities:
161.7
Transportation:
140.2
Health Care:
120.6
Miscellaneous:
114.3
Crime
Is Wahiawa, HI a safe place to live?
Wahiawa experiences slightly higher crime rates than the national average, with a 1 in 323 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance for property crime. While the area remains generally safe, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions. Community involvement and local law enforcement contribute to a sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
310
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 323
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Wahiawa, HI year-round?
Wahiawa enjoys a mild tropical climate year-round, with winter lows around 61°F and summer highs reaching 83°F. The area receives about 53 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunny days 66% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The consistent, pleasant weather is a major draw for residents seeking an island lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
61°F
Max:
77°F
Spring
Min:
63°F
Max:
79°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
65°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Wahiawa's households have a median income of $73,700, with around 13% of residents living below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is just over 33 minutes. The community is diverse and welcoming, with strong multicultural ties and a moderate use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$36,800
Household Income:
$73,700
Family Income:
$82,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,450
Income Male:
$40,500
Income Female:
$35,200
Poverty Rate:
12.7%
Non English Speakers:
17.8%
Rent:
$2,100
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
5.2%
Commute Time:
33.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.3%
Education
How are the schools in Wahiawa, HI?
Wahiawa offers a range of educational options, including public schools with manageable student-teacher ratios and a private school for alternative choices. The community is also near major higher education institutions like Leeward Community College and the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Families will find solid educational support at every level, from elementary through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Wahiawa Elementary School
Street:
1402 Glen Ave
Phone:
808-622-6393
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Wahiawa Middle School
Street:
275 Rose St
Phone:
808-622-6500
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Leilehua High School
Street:
1515 California Ave
Phone:
808-305-3000
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0
Private Schools
Name:
Trinity Lutheran School
Street:
1611 California Ave
Phone:
808-621-6033
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Leeward Community College
City:
Pearl City
State:
HI
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
University of Hawaii at Manoa
City:
Honolulu
State:
HI
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
19,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Wahiawa is anchored by Wahiawa General Hospital, offering emergency and surgical services to residents. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and over 94% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is robust. The city's healthcare index reflects generally reliable and accessible services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wahiawa General Hospital
Address:
128 Lehua St, Wahiawa, HI 96786
Phone:
(808) 621-8411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.2%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wahiawa, HI?
Wahiawa's housing market features a median home price of $720,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $2,100, reflecting the area's high demand and limited supply. About 47% of homes are owner-occupied, and the market has seen steady appreciation in recent years. Rental vacancies remain moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$720,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Wahiawa residents utilize the City & County of Honolulu Motor Vehicle, Licensing & Permits Division for DMV services, conveniently located in Honolulu. The office provides comprehensive vehicle registration and licensing support, with helpful staff available by phone or through their official website. This centralized service ensures streamlined processing for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
Hawaii
Department:
City & County of Honolulu Motor Vehicle, Licensing & Permits Division
Address:
City Square, 1199 Dillingham Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone:
(808) 768-9100
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.