Makakilo, HI vs Waianae, HI

The cost of living difference between Makakilo, HI and Waianae, HI is dramatic. Waianae is 46.4% cheaper than Makakilo, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Makakilo has a cost index of 174 while Waianae sits at 119, 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 Makakilo is $2,202/month compared to $1,307/month in Waianae — a 69% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waianae is more affordable at $487,200 median vs $827,900.

Median household income in Makakilo is $120,489 compared to $84,766 in Waianae (+42.1%). The higher salaries in Makakilo partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Makakilo spend roughly 21.9% of their income on rent, more than the 18.5% in Waianae.