Let the numbers do the talking.
Honolulu, HI vs Kailua, HI
Honolulu, HI vs Kailua, HI: What the data shows
Honolulu, HI is in Honolulu, HI while Kailua, HI is in Kailua, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Honolulu, HI is the more affordable option at $1,103,700 median — $110,200 less than Kailua, HI's $1,213,900. WYLT rates Honolulu, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Kailua, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Honolulu, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kailua, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Honolulu, HI has Low flood risk and Kailua, HI has Low flood risk.
Honolulu, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Honolulu, HI scores 55/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Kailua, HI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Kailua, HI has the higher school rating — Honolulu, HI rates 8/10 and Kailua, HI rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Honolulu, HI | Kailua, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.1M ✓ Lower price | $1.21M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $110K | $122K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 55/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 24/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 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 | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies looking for good schoolsRetirees seeking a beach lifestyle | Young families seeking quality schoolsBeach lovers and outdoor enthusiastsRemote workers who value scenic surroundings |
Bottom line
Both Honolulu and Kailua offer high-quality education and beautiful beaches, but Honolulu is marginally more convenient with a higher walk score and shorter commute. If being close to downtown Honolulu is a priority, Honolulu is worth considering, especially for young professionals and retirees who can afford the higher cost of living. For families and beach enthusiasts looking for a strong community vibe and quality schools, Kailua is a better value, as long as you can afford the high price and have a car.
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