Let the numbers do the talking.
Kailua, HI vs Waipahu, HI
Kailua, HI vs Waipahu, HI: What the data shows
Kailua, HI is in Kailua, HI while Waipahu, HI is in Waipahu, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Waipahu, HI is the more affordable option at $930,000 median — $283,900 less than Kailua, HI's $1,213,900. WYLT rates Kailua, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Waipahu, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Kailua, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Waipahu, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Kailua, HI has Low flood risk and Waipahu, HI has Low flood risk.
Waipahu, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Kailua, HI scores N/A/100 versus Waipahu, HI's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Kailua, HI rates 8.2/10 and Waipahu, HI rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Kailua, HI | Waipahu, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.21M | $930K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $122K ✓ Higher income | $105K |
| Price Volatility | High | Moderate ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 11/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 24/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Best for | Young families seeking quality schoolsBeach lovers and outdoor enthusiastsRemote workers who value scenic surroundings | Families with childrenPeople seeking a strong school districtResidents who plan to drive to work |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing scenic surroundings and a strong community vibe, Kailua may be the better choice despite its higher cost. However, for families seeking a more affordable option with similar school quality, Waipahu is a slightly more budget-friendly alternative. Ultimately, both neighborhoods require a car-centric lifestyle, so the decision comes down to whether the unique benefits of each area justify the costs.
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