Kapaau, HI
Population 2,029 · Hawaii
About Kapaau, HI
Kapaau is a small town located in Hawaii with a population of 2,029 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $74,583 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 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 Kapaau features a median home value of $577,600, which is 136% above the national median of $244,900. This places Kapaau in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,497, 29% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 746 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (545 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (111 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kapaau shows an unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Kapaau have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.3% of Kapaau residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.8% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 27.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 14.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Kapaau Ranks in Hawaii
Cost of Living in Kapaau, HI
Compared to national averages, Kapaau has a median household income of $74,583 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $577,600, which is 136% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,497 is 29% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Kapaau's income is 21% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 25% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Kapaau, HI?
Kapaau offers a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.2%, and a low poverty rate of 7.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,583) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $577,600. However, Kapaau’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kapaau has a population of 2,029 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Kapaau with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Kapaau
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kealakekua | 1,989 | $79,332 | $574,600 | Compare |
| Waimea CDP (Kauai County), Hawaii | 2,070 | $87,222 | $573,900 | Compare |
| Wheeler AFB | 2,196 | $88,409 | $0 | Compare |
| Princeville | 1,794 | $106,938 | $1,215,000 | Compare |
| Pahala | 1,785 | $71,908 | $216,600 | Compare |
| Hanapepe | 2,288 | $90,319 | $736,000 | Compare |
| Maunawili | 2,288 | $176,528 | $1,404,800 | Compare |
| Koloa | 2,327 | $76,316 | $873,900 | 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 Kapaau With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kapaau
What is the population of Kapaau, HI?
The population of Kapaau, HI is 2,029 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 Kapaau?
The median household income in Kapaau, HI is $74,583 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kapaau?
The median home value in Kapaau, HI is $577,600, which is 136% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kapaau?
The median monthly rent in Kapaau, HI is $1,497, which is 29% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kapaau?
The unemployment rate in Kapaau, HI is 3.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Kapaau, HI a good place to live?
Kapaau offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,029 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Kapaau, HI?
14.3% of residents in Kapaau 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 Kapaau?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kapaau, HI: median home value is $577,600 (136% above national), median rent is $1,497/month, and median household income is $74,583. The home-value-to-income ratio is 7.7x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Kapaau?
The poverty rate in Kapaau, HI is 7.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Kapaau, HI?
Kapaau's population is 2.8% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 27.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 14.3% of residents are foreign-born.