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 — $418,000 less than Honolulu, HI's $1,103,700. 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 55/100 (somewhat walkable) 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 | $1.1M | $686K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $110K ✓ Higher income | $90K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 55/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 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 | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.1/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies looking for good schoolsRetirees seeking a beach lifestyle | RetireesSeasonal workersRemote workers |
Bottom line
For families or retirees on a moderate income, Honolulu might be a more suitable option due to its better schools, but they'll need to consider the high cost of living. Kailua-Kona, being more affordable, suits retirees, remote workers, or those seeking a vacation lifestyle, but might not be ideal for everyday living. Overall, Honolulu is the better choice if you prioritize education, while Kailua-Kona is more suitable for those who value affordability.
Share this comparison