Hilo, HI vs Kailua CDP (Hawaii County), HI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hilo is 19.4% cheaper than Kailua CDP (Hawaii County). With a cost index of 117 vs 145, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hilo to Kailua CDP (Hawaii County) should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hilo is $1,347/month compared to $1,747/month in Kailua CDP (Hawaii County) — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hilo is more affordable at $455,100 median vs $649,400.

Median household income in Hilo is $78,713 compared to $86,743 in Kailua CDP (Hawaii County) (-9.3%). Kailua CDP (Hawaii County) does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Hilo spend roughly 20.5% of their income on rent, less than the 24.2% in Kailua CDP (Hawaii County).