Let the numbers do the talking.
Waianae, HI vs Wailuku, HI
Waianae, HI vs Wailuku, HI: What the data shows
Waianae, HI is in Waianae, HI while Wailuku, HI is in Wailuku, HI — both in the same state. On home prices, Waianae, HI is the more affordable option at $515,800 median — $192,300 less than Wailuku, HI's $708,100. WYLT rates Waianae, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wailuku, HI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Waianae, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wailuku, HI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Waianae, HI has Low flood risk and Wailuku, HI has Low flood risk.
Waianae, HI is the more walkable neighborhood. Waianae, HI scores 15/100 (car-dependent) versus Wailuku, HI's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Wailuku, HI has the higher school rating — Waianae, HI rates 7/10 and Wailuku, HI rates 7.7/10.
| Category | Waianae, HI | Wailuku, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $516K ✓ Lower price | $708K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $80K | $107K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 ✓ More walkable | 8/100 |
| Transit Score | 39/100 ✓ Better transit | 20/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| 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 | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑age kidsFirst‑time homebuyers seeking affordabilityRemote workers looking for a quieter lifestyle | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers |
Bottom line
Waianae is better suited for families with younger children, first-time homebuyers, and those seeking a quieter lifestyle, where affordability is a top priority. On the other hand, Wailuku makes more sense for families and individuals who value a strong school system and are willing to tolerate a higher cost of living. Ultimately, the choice comes down to prioritizing affordability or having access to a more stable and desirable community.
Share this comparison