Let the numbers do the talking.
Hilo, HI vs Kailua, HI
Hilo, HI vs Kailua, HI: What the data shows
Hilo, HI is in Hilo, HI while Kailua, HI is in Kailua, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilo, HI is the more affordable option at $421,800 median — $792,100 less than Kailua, HI's $1,213,900. WYLT rates Hilo, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Kailua, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Hilo, HI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hilo, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kailua, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hilo, HI has Low flood risk and Kailua, HI has Low flood risk.
Hilo, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Hilo, HI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Kailua, HI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Kailua, HI has the higher school rating — Hilo, HI rates 7.3/10 and Kailua, HI rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Hilo, HI | Kailua, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $422K ✓ Lower price | $1.21M |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $75K | $122K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 24/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | RetireesMilitary familiesOutdoor enthusiasts | Young families seeking quality schoolsBeach lovers and outdoor enthusiastsRemote workers who value scenic surroundings |
Bottom line
For retirees or military families seeking a more affordable lifestyle in a tight-knit community, Hilo might be the better choice due to its modest cost of living and lower median home price. On the other hand, young families or beach enthusiasts who prioritize quality schools and scenic surroundings may prefer Kailua's excellent schools and beauty, even with its high cost of living. Ultimately, Kailua is more suitable for those who value education and outdoor lifestyle, and can afford its significantly higher prices.
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