Laie, HI vs Waimea CDP (Kauai County), HI

The cost of living difference between Laie, HI and Waimea CDP (Kauai County), HI is dramatic. Waimea CDP (Kauai County) is 38.5% cheaper than Laie, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Laie has a cost index of 188 while Waimea CDP (Kauai County) sits at 136, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Laie is $2,375/month compared to $1,664/month in Waimea CDP (Kauai County) — a 43% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waimea CDP (Kauai County) is more affordable at $573,900 median vs $942,700.

Median household income in Laie is $119,219 compared to $87,222 in Waimea CDP (Kauai County) (+36.7%). The higher salaries in Laie partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Laie spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, more than the 22.9% in Waimea CDP (Kauai County).