Nanakuli, HI
Population 12,282 · Hawaii
About Nanakuli, HI
Nanakuli is a mid-sized city located in Hawaii with a population of 12,282 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,493 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.1 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 Nanakuli features a median home value of $473,000, which is 93% above the national median of $244,900. This places Nanakuli in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,671, 44% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,246 total housing units, 65% are owner-occupied (1,937 units) and 35% are renter-occupied (1,021 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nanakuli shows an unemployment rate of 10.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Nanakuli have an average one-way commute time of 37.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
10.2% of Nanakuli 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 2.3% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 5.8% Black or African American, and 4.4% Asian residents, with 7.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Nanakuli Ranks in Hawaii
Cost of Living in Nanakuli, HI
Compared to national averages, Nanakuli has a median household income of $81,493 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $473,000, which is 93% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,671 is 44% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Nanakuli's income is 14% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 38% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Nanakuli, HI?
Nanakuli offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,493, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $473,000. However, Nanakuli’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nanakuli has a population of 12,282 with a median age of 35.1 years. Compare Nanakuli with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Nanakuli
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maili | 12,236 | $104,375 | $633,100 | Compare |
| Waianae | 12,907 | $84,766 | $487,200 | Compare |
| Kaiminani | 11,542 | $101,320 | $761,300 | Compare |
| Lahaina | 11,423 | $85,988 | $841,400 | Compare |
| Waihee-Waiehu | 11,369 | $128,266 | $740,300 | Compare |
| Hawaiian Paradise Park | 13,273 | $81,892 | $413,800 | Compare |
| Waipio | 11,196 | $106,164 | $709,500 | Compare |
| Kaneohe Base | 10,973 | $70,000 | $390,600 | 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 Nanakuli With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nanakuli
What is the population of Nanakuli, HI?
The population of Nanakuli, HI is 12,282 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 Nanakuli?
The median household income in Nanakuli, HI is $81,493 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nanakuli?
The median home value in Nanakuli, HI is $473,000, which is 93% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nanakuli?
The median monthly rent in Nanakuli, HI is $1,671, which is 44% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nanakuli?
The unemployment rate in Nanakuli, HI is 10.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nanakuli, HI a good place to live?
Nanakuli offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,282 and a median age of 35.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Nanakuli, HI?
10.2% of residents in Nanakuli 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 Nanakuli?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nanakuli, HI: median home value is $473,000 (93% above national), median rent is $1,671/month, and median household income is $81,493. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Nanakuli?
The poverty rate in Nanakuli, HI is 16.6%, 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 Nanakuli, HI?
Nanakuli's population is 2.3% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 5.8% Black or African American, 4.4% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 7.0% of residents are foreign-born.