Lawai, HI
Population 2,775 · Hawaii
About Lawai, HI
Lawai is a small community in Hawaii with a population of 2,775 residents. The median household income is $104,826 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Lawai is 38.4 years.
Housing in Lawai has a median home value of $853,700 and median monthly rent of $1,917. Of the 933 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 604 owner-occupied and 230 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Lawai is 10.5% and the poverty rate is 8.9%. 35.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in Lawai, HI
Compared to national averages, Lawai has a median household income of $104,826 (39% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $853,700, which is 249% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,917 is 65% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Lawai's income is 11% above the state average of $94,535, and home values are 11% above the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Lawai, HI?
Lawai offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $104,826, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 35.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $853,700. However, Lawai’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lawai has a population of 2,775 with a median age of 38.4 years. Compare Lawai with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Lawai
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holualoa | 2,825 | $109,444 | $1,056,500 | Compare |
| Paia | 2,629 | $120,735 | $881,100 | Compare |
| Kurtistown | 2,928 | $78,750 | $441,200 | Compare |
| Honaunau-Napoopoo | 2,554 | $75,884 | $724,200 | Compare |
| Wailua | 2,544 | $68,548 | $697,300 | Compare |
| Waialua | 3,015 | $84,656 | $942,300 | Compare |
| Keokea | 3,049 | $119,464 | $749,100 | Compare |
| Anahola | 3,098 | $96,207 | $524,900 | 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 Lawai With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lawai
What is the population of Lawai, HI?
The population of Lawai, HI is 2,775 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Lawai?
The median household income in Lawai, HI is $104,826 per year.
What is the median home value in Lawai?
The median home value in Lawai, HI is $853,700.
What is the average rent in Lawai?
The median monthly rent in Lawai, HI is $1,917.
What is the unemployment rate in Lawai?
The unemployment rate in Lawai, HI is 10.5%.