Makawao, HI
Population 7,263 · Hawaii
About Makawao, HI
Makawao is a small community in Hawaii with a population of 7,263 residents. The median household income is $96,116 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Makawao is 43.5 years.
Housing in Makawao has a median home value of $819,600 and median monthly rent of $1,699. Of the 2,759 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 1,696 owner-occupied and 909 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Makawao is 3.3% and the poverty rate is 10.5%. 30.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 26.7 minutes.
How Makawao Ranks in Hawaii
Cost of Living in Makawao, HI
Compared to national averages, Makawao has a median household income of $96,116 (28% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $819,600, which is 235% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,699 is 46% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Makawao's income is 2% above the state average of $94,535, and home values are 7% above the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Makawao, HI?
Makawao offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $96,116, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%, and a low poverty rate of 10.5%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $819,600. However, Makawao’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Makawao has a population of 7,263 with a median age of 43.5 years. Compare Makawao with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Makawao
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wailua Homesteads | 7,136 | $94,900 | $898,300 | Compare |
| Waikoloa Village | 7,028 | $92,713 | $674,100 | Compare |
| Ewa Villages | 6,918 | $85,043 | $819,400 | Compare |
| Napili-Honokowai | 6,897 | $102,337 | $775,500 | Compare |
| Lihue | 7,847 | $77,420 | $843,900 | Compare |
| Kahaluu-Keauhou | 6,670 | $93,594 | $830,600 | Compare |
| Waikele | 7,950 | $111,971 | $696,400 | Compare |
| Wailea | 6,571 | $89,375 | $1,363,700 | 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 Makawao With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Makawao
What is the population of Makawao, HI?
The population of Makawao, HI is 7,263 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Makawao?
The median household income in Makawao, HI is $96,116 per year.
What is the median home value in Makawao?
The median home value in Makawao, HI is $819,600.
What is the average rent in Makawao?
The median monthly rent in Makawao, HI is $1,699.
What is the unemployment rate in Makawao?
The unemployment rate in Makawao, HI is 3.3%.