Pupukea, HI
Population 4,853 · Hawaii
About Pupukea, HI
Pupukea is a small town located in Hawaii with a population of 4,853 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,771 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Pupukea features a median home value of $1,331,800, which is 444% above the national median of $244,900. This places Pupukea in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,991, 71% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,787 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (901 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (688 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Pupukea shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Pupukea have an average one-way commute time of 37.3 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
30.6% of Pupukea 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 2.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 4.2% Black or African American, and 4.5% Asian residents, with 9.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Pupukea, HI
Compared to national averages, Pupukea has a median household income of $98,771 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $1,331,800, which is 444% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,991 is 71% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Pupukea's income is 4% above the state average of $94,535, and home values are 74% above the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Pupukea, HI?
Pupukea offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,771, well above the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $1,331,800. However, Pupukea’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Pupukea has a population of 4,853 with a median age of 40.6 years. Compare Pupukea with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Pupukea
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haleiwa | 4,671 | $93,977 | $1,081,100 | Compare |
| Kalaheo | 4,612 | $105,605 | $899,300 | Compare |
| Heeia | 5,099 | $160,294 | $1,186,500 | Compare |
| Waimanalo Beach | 4,587 | $120,769 | $816,500 | Compare |
| Waipio Acres | 5,146 | $95,781 | $602,600 | Compare |
| Hawaiian Beaches | 4,503 | $42,154 | $247,500 | Compare |
| Kahaluu | 5,282 | $128,661 | $1,162,000 | Compare |
| Puhi | 4,381 | $132,645 | $654,600 | 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 Pupukea With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Pupukea
What is the population of Pupukea, HI?
The population of Pupukea, HI is 4,853 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 Pupukea?
The median household income in Pupukea, HI is $98,771 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Pupukea?
The median home value in Pupukea, HI is $1,331,800, which is 444% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Pupukea?
The median monthly rent in Pupukea, HI is $1,991, which is 71% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Pupukea?
The unemployment rate in Pupukea, HI is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Pupukea, HI a good place to live?
Pupukea offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,853 and a median age of 40.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Pupukea, HI?
30.6% of residents in Pupukea 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 Pupukea?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Pupukea, HI: median home value is $1,331,800 (444% above national), median rent is $1,991/month, and median household income is $98,771. The home-value-to-income ratio is 13.5x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Pupukea?
The poverty rate in Pupukea, HI is 14.1%, 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 Pupukea, HI?
Pupukea's population is 2.0% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 4.2% Black or African American, 4.5% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 9.7% of residents are foreign-born.