Average Rent in Hawaii County, HI
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 203,684
Market Overview
Hawaii County, HI has rental prices ranging from $1,605/month to $2,910/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,615/month — 15% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $77,215/year, spending $1,615/month on a 1-bedroom represents 25% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hawaii County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,081/month, Hawaii County ranks #5 most expensive of the 7 cities tracked in Hawaii — pricier than 97% of all US cities in our data.
The Hawaii County Rental Market
The Hawaii County, HI area has a population of about 203,684 and 27% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Hawaii County, HI have risen by $5/month (0.2%) over the past year, from $2,076 to $2,081. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hawaii County, HI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $64,600. The local median household income of $77,215 exceeds that threshold by $12,615, making Hawaii County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hawaii County, HI has an unemployment rate of 3.5%, 0.4 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Hawaii County, HI Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in HIlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Honolulu | $1,836 | $1,951 | $2,542 | $3,520 | — |
| Kahului | $1,850 | $2,030 | $2,656 | $3,351 | — |
| Maui County | $1,186 | $1,335 | $1,675 | $2,416 | — |
| Kauai County | $1,599 | $1,609 | $2,105 | $2,588 | — |
| Kalawao County | $1,339 | $1,370 | $1,797 | $2,325 | — |
| Kalawao County | $1,621 | $1,778 | $2,326 | $2,932 | — |
Rent or Buy in Hawaii County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hawaii County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Hawaii County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Hawaii CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in HISee how Hawaii County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hawaii CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋HI Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections