Let the numbers do the talking.
Hilo, HI vs Lihue, HI
Hilo, HI vs Lihue, HI: What the data shows
Hilo, HI is in Hilo, HI while Lihue, HI is in Lihue, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilo, HI is the more affordable option at $421,800 median — $266,100 less than Lihue, HI's $687,900. WYLT rates Hilo, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Lihue, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Hilo, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lihue, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hilo, HI has Low flood risk and Lihue, HI has Low flood risk.
Lihue, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Hilo, HI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Lihue, HI's 21/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Lihue, HI has the higher school rating — Hilo, HI rates 7.3/10 and Lihue, HI rates 7.6/10.
| Category | Hilo, HI | Lihue, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $422K ✓ Lower price | $688K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $75K | $88K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 21/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | RetireesMilitary familiesOutdoor enthusiasts | FamiliesRetireesNature lovers |
Bottom line
For families with limited job requirements, Lihue might be a better fit due to its higher school ratings and slightly better accessibility. However, for retirees, military families, or those prioritizing affordability and community, Hilo could be a more suitable choice. Ultimately, both neighborhoods come with trade-offs, so deciding based on individual needs is key.
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