Makawao, HI vs Paia, HI

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Makawao is 15.1% cheaper than Paia. With a cost index of 156 vs 184, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Makawao to Paia should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Makawao is $1,699/month compared to $2,446/month in Paia — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Makawao is more affordable at $819,600 median vs $881,100.

Median household income in Makawao is $96,116 compared to $120,735 in Paia (-20.4%). While Paia is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Makawao spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 24.3% in Paia.