Let the numbers do the talking.
Hilo, HI vs Wailuku, HI
Hilo, HI vs Wailuku, HI: What the data shows
Hilo, HI is in Hilo, HI while Wailuku, HI is in Wailuku, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilo, HI is the more affordable option at $421,800 median — $286,300 less than Wailuku, HI's $708,100. WYLT rates Hilo, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wailuku, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Hilo, HI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hilo, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wailuku, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hilo, HI has Low flood risk and Wailuku, HI has Low flood risk.
Wailuku, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Hilo, HI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Wailuku, HI's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Wailuku, HI has the higher school rating — Hilo, HI rates 7.3/10 and Wailuku, HI rates 7.7/10.
| Category | Hilo, HI | Wailuku, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $422K ✓ Lower price | $708K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $75K | $107K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 8/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 20/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| 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 | 7.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | RetireesMilitary familiesOutdoor enthusiasts | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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