Let the numbers do the talking.
Honolulu, HI vs Lahaina, HI
Honolulu, HI vs Lahaina, HI: What the data shows
Honolulu, HI is in Honolulu, HI while Lahaina, HI is in Lahaina, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Lahaina, HI is the more affordable option at $869,300 median — $234,400 less than Honolulu, HI's $1,103,700. WYLT rates Honolulu, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Lahaina, 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. Lahaina, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Honolulu, HI has Low flood risk and Lahaina, HI has Low flood risk.
Honolulu, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Honolulu, HI scores 55/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Lahaina, HI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Honolulu, HI has the higher school rating — Honolulu, HI rates 8/10 and Lahaina, HI rates 7/10.
| Category | Honolulu, HI | Lahaina, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.1M | $869K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $110K ✓ Higher income | $93K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| 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+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies looking for good schoolsRetirees seeking a beach lifestyle | RetireesSmall familiesRemote workers with budget |
Bottom line
For families looking for good schools and a decent walkability, Honolulu may be the better choice due to its higher school rating and slightly better walk score. However, both areas are likely too expensive for most families on a moderate income. Ultimately, retirees or remote workers who prioritize a lower cost of living may prefer Lahaina over Honolulu.
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