Wheeler AFB, HI
Population 2,196 · Hawaii
About Wheeler AFB, HI
Wheeler AFB is a small town located in Hawaii with a population of 2,196 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,409 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 24.1 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 Wheeler AFB features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wheeler AFB one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $2,790, 140% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 871 total housing units, 0% are owner-occupied (0 units) and 100% are renter-occupied (784 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wheeler AFB shows an unemployment rate of 7.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 1.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Wheeler AFB have an average one-way commute time of 14.7 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
29.3% of Wheeler AFB 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 10.6% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, and 6.8% Asian residents, with 10.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wheeler AFB, HI
Compared to national averages, Wheeler AFB has a median household income of $88,409 (18% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $2,790 is 140% above the US average of $1,163. Within Hawaii, Wheeler AFB's income is 6% below the state average of $94,535, and home values are 100% below the state median of $766,495.
Why Live in Wheeler AFB, HI?
Wheeler AFB offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,409, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 1.8%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 14.7 minutes.
Wheeler AFB has a population of 2,196 with a median age of 24.1 years. Compare Wheeler AFB with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Hawaii.
Similar Cities Near Wheeler AFB
Cities in Hawaii with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanapepe | 2,288 | $90,319 | $736,000 | Compare |
| Maunawili | 2,288 | $176,528 | $1,404,800 | Compare |
| Waimea CDP (Kauai County), Hawaii | 2,070 | $87,222 | $573,900 | Compare |
| Koloa | 2,327 | $76,316 | $873,900 | Compare |
| Eleele | 2,339 | $122,308 | $684,900 | Compare |
| Honokaa | 2,353 | $85,556 | $551,800 | Compare |
| Kualapuu | 2,357 | $52,500 | $258,900 | Compare |
| Kapaau | 2,029 | $74,583 | $577,600 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wheeler AFB
What is the population of Wheeler AFB, HI?
The population of Wheeler AFB, HI is 2,196 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 Wheeler AFB?
The median household income in Wheeler AFB, HI is $88,409 per year, which is 18% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wheeler AFB?
The median home value in Wheeler AFB, HI is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Wheeler AFB?
The median monthly rent in Wheeler AFB, HI is $2,790, which is 140% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wheeler AFB?
The unemployment rate in Wheeler AFB, HI is 7.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wheeler AFB, HI a good place to live?
Wheeler AFB offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,196 and a median age of 24.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wheeler AFB, HI?
29.3% of residents in Wheeler AFB 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 Wheeler AFB?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wheeler AFB, HI: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $2,790/month, and median household income is $88,409. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wheeler AFB?
The poverty rate in Wheeler AFB, HI is 1.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Wheeler AFB, HI?
Wheeler AFB's population is 10.6% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 4.0% Black or African American, 6.8% Asian, and 9.7% two or more races. 10.5% of residents are foreign-born.