Kihei, HI vs Waimalu, HI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waimalu is 17.1% cheaper than Kihei. With a cost index of 145 vs 170, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waimalu to Kihei should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Kihei is $2,021/month compared to $1,892/month in Waimalu — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waimalu is more affordable at $597,700 median vs $871,600.

Median household income in Kihei is $87,568 compared to $89,016 in Waimalu (-1.6%). Waimalu offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Kihei spend roughly 27.7% of their income on rent, more than the 25.5% in Waimalu.