Let the numbers do the talking.
Honolulu, HI vs Kailua-Kona, HI
Honolulu, HI vs Kailua-Kona, HI: What the data shows
Honolulu, HI is in Honolulu, HI while Kailua-Kona, HI is in Kailua-Kona, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Kailua-Kona, HI is the more affordable option at $685,700 median — $73,300 less than Honolulu, HI's $759,000. WYLT rates Honolulu, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Kailua-Kona, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Kailua-Kona, HI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Honolulu, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kailua-Kona, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Honolulu, HI has Low flood risk and Kailua-Kona, HI has Low flood risk.
Honolulu, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Honolulu, HI scores 38/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Kailua-Kona, HI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Honolulu, HI has the higher school rating — Honolulu, HI rates 8/10 and Kailua-Kona, HI rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Honolulu, HI | Kailua-Kona, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $759K | $686K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $86K | $90K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 38/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 57/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 12 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | Urban lifestyleFood loversYoung professionals | RetireesSeasonal workersRemote workers |
Bottom line
For a tight budget, Honolulu's affordable commute and slightly better schools might make it a slightly better option, despite the exorbitant costs. Young professionals who value urban living will likely prefer Honolulu's food scene and nightlife options. For retirees or remote workers looking for a laid-back lifestyle, Kailua-Kona's tranquil atmosphere might be a better fit.
Share this comparison