Let the numbers do the talking.
Honolulu, HI vs Wailuku, HI
Honolulu, HI vs Wailuku, HI: What the data shows
Honolulu, HI is in Honolulu, HI while Wailuku, HI is in Wailuku, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Wailuku, HI is the more affordable option at $708,100 median — $50,900 less than Honolulu, HI's $759,000. WYLT rates Honolulu, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Wailuku, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Honolulu, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wailuku, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Honolulu, HI has Low flood risk and Wailuku, HI has Low flood risk.
Honolulu, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Honolulu, HI scores 38/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Wailuku, HI's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Honolulu, HI has the higher school rating — Honolulu, HI rates 8/10 and Wailuku, HI rates 7.7/10.
| Category | Honolulu, HI | Wailuku, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $759K | $708K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $86K | $107K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 38/100 ✓ More walkable | 8/100 |
| Transit Score | 57/100 ✓ Better transit | 20/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 12 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 | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.7/10 |
| Best for | Urban lifestyleFood loversYoung professionals | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers |
Bottom line
For young professionals who value an urban lifestyle and can afford the high cost of living, Honolulu's 96813 area may be the better choice, despite its poor walkability. However, families or those seeking a more suburban experience may find Wailuku a more suitable option, thanks to its good schools and lower flood risk, if they can accept the need for a car and high expenses. Ultimately, the decision depends on prioritizing lifestyle or practicality.
Share this comparison