Let the numbers do the talking.
Kailua-Kona, HI vs Lahaina, HI
Kailua-Kona, HI vs Lahaina, HI: What the data shows
Kailua-Kona, HI is in Kailua-Kona, HI while Lahaina, HI is in Lahaina, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Kailua-Kona, HI is the more affordable option at $685,700 median — $183,600 less than Lahaina, HI's $869,300. WYLT rates Kailua-Kona, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Lahaina, HI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Kailua-Kona, HI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Kailua-Kona, HI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Lahaina, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Kailua-Kona, HI has Low flood risk and Lahaina, HI has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Kailua-Kona, HI has the higher school rating — Kailua-Kona, HI rates 7.1/10 and Lahaina, HI rates 7/10.
| Category | Kailua-Kona, HI | Lahaina, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $686K ✓ Lower price | $869K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $90K | $93K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7/10 |
| Best for | RetireesSeasonal workersRemote workers | RetireesSmall familiesRemote workers with budget |
Bottom line
For retirees or families who can afford the cost, Lahaina may be preferable due to its slightly better school rating, but only if you don't mind paying nearly $200,000 more for the median home price. For remote workers or seasonal professionals on a tighter budget, Kailua-Kona might be a more viable option, despite its lack of walkable amenities. Overall, both areas prioritize high-end living styles, so buyers should carefully consider their priorities.
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