Kapolei, HI
Population 23,033 · Hawaii
About Kapolei, HI
Kapolei is a mid-sized city located in Hawaii with a population of 23,033 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $129,260 per year, which is 72% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Kapolei features a median home value of $720,600, which is 194% above the national median of $244,900. This places Kapolei in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $2,507, 116% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 7,260 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (5,381 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (1,498 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kapolei shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Kapolei have an average one-way commute time of 32.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.8% of Kapolei 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 5.5% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 6.9% Black or African American, and 4.5% Asian residents, with 11.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Kapolei Ranks in Hawaii
Cost of Living in Kapolei, HI
Compared to national averages, Kapolei has a median household income of $129,260 (72% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $720,600, which is 194% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,507 is 116% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Kapolei's income is 37% above the state average of $94,535, and home values are 6% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Kapolei, HI?
Kapolei offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $129,260, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.1%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $720,600. However, Kapolei’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kapolei has a population of 23,033 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Kapolei with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Kapolei
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kihei | 22,564 | $87,568 | $871,600 | Compare |
| Mililani Mauka | 21,967 | $139,564 | $901,800 | Compare |
| Kailua CDP (Hawaii County), Hawaii | 21,851 | $86,743 | $649,400 | Compare |
| Makakilo | 20,372 | $120,489 | $827,900 | Compare |
| Ewa Gentry | 26,738 | $131,755 | $768,200 | Compare |
| Kahului | 27,068 | $92,062 | $833,200 | Compare |
| Mililani Town | 27,495 | $124,123 | $884,800 | Compare |
| Wahiawa | 17,515 | $86,883 | $716,800 | 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 Kapolei With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kapolei
What is the population of Kapolei, HI?
The population of Kapolei, HI is 23,033 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Hawaii.
What is the median household income in Kapolei?
The median household income in Kapolei, HI is $129,260 per year, which is 72% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kapolei?
The median home value in Kapolei, HI is $720,600, which is 194% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kapolei?
The median monthly rent in Kapolei, HI is $2,507, which is 116% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kapolei?
The unemployment rate in Kapolei, HI is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kapolei, HI a good place to live?
Kapolei offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 23,033 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kapolei, HI?
31.8% of residents in Kapolei 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 Kapolei?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kapolei, HI: median home value is $720,600 (194% above national), median rent is $2,507/month, and median household income is $129,260. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Kapolei?
The poverty rate in Kapolei, HI is 8.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Kapolei, HI?
Kapolei's population is 5.5% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 6.9% Black or African American, 4.5% Asian, and 3.1% two or more races. 11.6% of residents are foreign-born.