Makawao, HI vs Wailua, HI

Makawao is moderately more affordable than Wailua, with a 5.1% lower cost of living index. Makawao scores 156 compared to 165 for Wailua, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Wailua can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Makawao is $1,699/month compared to $2,272/month in Wailua — a 25% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Makawao has cheaper rent, Wailua actually has lower median home values ($697,300 vs $819,600).

Median household income in Makawao is $96,116 compared to $68,548 in Wailua (+40.2%). Makawao offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Makawao spend roughly 21.2% of their income on rent, less than the 39.8% in Wailua. The Makawao ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.