Let the numbers do the talking.
Aiea, HI vs Waianae, HI
Aiea, HI vs Waianae, HI: What the data shows
Aiea, HI is in Aiea, HI while Waianae, HI is in Waianae, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Waianae, HI is the more affordable option at $620,000 median — $237,500 less than Aiea, HI's $857,500. WYLT rates Aiea, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Waianae, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Aiea, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waianae, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aiea, HI has Low flood risk and Waianae, HI has Low flood risk.
Waianae, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Aiea, HI scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Waianae, HI's 15/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Aiea, HI has the higher school rating — Aiea, HI rates 8.1/10 and Waianae, HI rates 7/10.
| Category | Aiea, HI | Waianae, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $858K | $620K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $108K ✓ Higher income | $80K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 15/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 33/100 | 39/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | Families seeking good schoolsCommuters to Honolulu downtownRemote workers who need a quiet space | Families with school‑age kidsFirst‑time homebuyers seeking affordabilityRemote workers looking for a quieter lifestyle |
Bottom line
If you’re looking for stronger schools and a shorter commute to Honolulu and can afford the higher home price, Aiea is the better choice—though it’s car‑dependent and pricey. Waianae offers more affordable homes and a lower cost of living, making it ideal for first‑time buyers or those who prioritize budget over a walkable urban feel. Ultimately, choose Aiea for families that need top‑rated schools and can handle higher costs, or Waianae for budget‑conscious buyers who want a quiet, car
Share this comparison