Waialua, HI
Population 3,015 · Hawaii
About Waialua, HI
Waialua is a small town located in Hawaii with a population of 3,015 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $84,656 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.8 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Waialua features a median home value of $942,300, which is 285% above the national median of $244,900. This places Waialua in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,707, 47% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,242 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (632 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (433 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Waialua shows an unemployment rate of 5.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Waialua have an average one-way commute time of 32 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.0% of Waialua 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 3.5% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 3.2% Black or African American, and 3.2% Asian residents, with 16.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Waialua, HI
Compared to national averages, Waialua has a median household income of $84,656 (13% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $942,300, which is 285% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,707 is 47% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Waialua's income is 10% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 23% above the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Waialua, HI?
Waialua offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $84,656, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 11.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $942,300. However, Waialua’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Waialua has a population of 3,015 with a median age of 47.8 years. Compare Waialua with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Waialua
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keokea | 3,049 | $119,464 | $749,100 | Compare |
| Anahola | 3,098 | $96,207 | $524,900 | Compare |
| Kurtistown | 2,928 | $78,750 | $441,200 | Compare |
| Kilauea | 3,104 | $86,382 | $1,011,000 | Compare |
| Orchidlands Estates | 3,180 | $70,996 | $334,500 | Compare |
| Holualoa | 2,825 | $109,444 | $1,056,500 | Compare |
| Helemano | 3,206 | $82,659 | $0 | Compare |
| Kalaeloa | 3,229 | $81,833 | $0 | 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 Waialua With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Waialua
What is the population of Waialua, HI?
The population of Waialua, HI is 3,015 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 Waialua?
The median household income in Waialua, HI is $84,656 per year, which is 13% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Waialua?
The median home value in Waialua, HI is $942,300, which is 285% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Waialua?
The median monthly rent in Waialua, HI is $1,707, which is 47% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Waialua?
The unemployment rate in Waialua, HI is 5.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Waialua, HI a good place to live?
Waialua offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,015 and a median age of 47.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Waialua, HI?
29.0% of residents in Waialua 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 Waialua?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Waialua, HI: median home value is $942,300 (285% above national), median rent is $1,707/month, and median household income is $84,656. The home-value-to-income ratio is 11.1x, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Waialua?
The poverty rate in Waialua, HI is 11.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Waialua, HI?
Waialua's population is 3.5% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 3.2% Black or African American, 3.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 16.3% of residents are foreign-born.