Wailua, HI
Population 2,544 · Hawaii
About Wailua, HI
Wailua is a small community in Hawaii with a population of 2,544 residents. The median household income is $68,548 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Wailua is 45.8 years.
Housing in Wailua has a median home value of $697,300 and median monthly rent of $2,272. Of the 1,517 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 560 owner-occupied and 394 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Wailua is 8.7% and the poverty rate is 20.5%. 26.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Wailua, HI
Compared to national averages, Wailua has a median household income of $68,548 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $697,300, which is 185% above the national median. Monthly rent at $2,272 is 95% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Wailua's income is 27% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 9% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Wailua, HI?
Wailua offers short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,548) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $697,300. However, Wailua’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wailua has a population of 2,544 with a median age of 45.8 years. Compare Wailua with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Wailua
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honaunau-Napoopoo | 2,554 | $75,884 | $724,200 | Compare |
| Paia | 2,629 | $120,735 | $881,100 | Compare |
| Kahuku | 2,425 | $73,214 | $769,100 | Compare |
| Kualapuu | 2,357 | $52,500 | $258,900 | Compare |
| Honokaa | 2,353 | $85,556 | $551,800 | Compare |
| Eleele | 2,339 | $122,308 | $684,900 | Compare |
| Koloa | 2,327 | $76,316 | $873,900 | Compare |
| Lawai | 2,775 | $104,826 | $853,700 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wailua
What is the population of Wailua, HI?
The population of Wailua, HI is 2,544 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Wailua?
The median household income in Wailua, HI is $68,548 per year.
What is the median home value in Wailua?
The median home value in Wailua, HI is $697,300.
What is the average rent in Wailua?
The median monthly rent in Wailua, HI is $2,272.
What is the unemployment rate in Wailua?
The unemployment rate in Wailua, HI is 8.7%.