Hawi, HI
Population 1,720 · Hawaii
About Hawi, HI
Hawi is a small town located in Hawaii with a population of 1,720 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $85,197 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Hawi features a median home value of $662,500, which is 171% above the national median of $244,900. This places Hawi in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,898, 63% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 717 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (447 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (136 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hawi shows an unemployment rate of 6.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hawi have an average one-way commute time of 31.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.3% of Hawi residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, and 5.8% Asian residents, with 12.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Hawi, HI
Compared to national averages, Hawi has a median household income of $85,197 (13% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $662,500, which is 171% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,898 is 63% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Hawi's income is 10% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 14% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Hawi, HI?
Hawi offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $85,197, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $662,500. However, Hawi’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hawi has a population of 1,720 with a median age of 42.7 years. Compare Hawi with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Hawi
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fern Acres | 1,714 | $49,554 | $267,400 | Compare |
| Mokuleia | 1,684 | $83,571 | $989,100 | Compare |
| Ko Olina | 1,677 | $125,577 | $885,500 | Compare |
| Pahala | 1,785 | $71,908 | $216,600 | Compare |
| Princeville | 1,794 | $106,938 | $1,215,000 | Compare |
| Kaloko | 1,555 | $104,167 | $1,143,400 | Compare |
| Pepeekeo | 1,505 | $52,276 | $415,600 | Compare |
| Kealakekua | 1,989 | $79,332 | $574,600 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Hawaii
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Hawi With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hawi
What is the population of Hawi, HI?
The population of Hawi, HI is 1,720 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Hawaii.
What is the median household income in Hawi?
The median household income in Hawi, HI is $85,197 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hawi?
The median home value in Hawi, HI is $662,500, which is 171% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Hawi?
The median monthly rent in Hawi, HI is $1,898, which is 63% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hawi?
The unemployment rate in Hawi, HI is 6.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Hawi, HI a good place to live?
Hawi offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,720 and a median age of 42.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Hawi, HI?
31.3% of residents in Hawi aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Hawi?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hawi, HI: median home value is $662,500 (171% above national), median rent is $1,898/month, and median household income is $85,197. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.8x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Hawi?
The poverty rate in Hawi, HI is 13.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Hawi, HI?
Hawi's population is 0.0% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Black or African American, 5.8% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 12.8% of residents are foreign-born.