Makawao, HI vs Waimalu, HI

Waimalu is moderately more affordable than Makawao, with a 7.5% lower cost of living index. Makawao scores 156 compared to 145 for Waimalu, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Makawao 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 $1,892/month in Waimalu — a 10% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Makawao has cheaper rent, Waimalu actually has lower median home values ($597,700 vs $819,600).

Median household income in Makawao is $96,116 compared to $89,016 in Waimalu (+8%). While Makawao 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 25.5% in Waimalu.