What to know when moving to Kailua Kona, HI
Kailua Kona at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 34.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 29.1% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- The median household income is $94,091, which supports a range of lifestyles.
- The Reality Check:
- Median gross rent is $1,692, which may be steep for some budgets.
- Commute:
- Only 0.5% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $730,600 if you're considering buying.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Kailua Kona features a good mix of homeowners and renters, with 29.1% of residents renting their homes. The community is relatively well-educated, with 34.8% of the population holding at least a bachelor's degree. This area enjoys a warm climate, but prepare for an average of 80.7 inches of rainfall annually, which translates to about 210 rainy days per year.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a low housing cost, as the median gross rent sits at $1,692.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,692, which may stretch your budget.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $730,600, reflecting the higher cost of living.
- 34.8% of residents have a bachelor's degree, indicating a relatively educated populace.
- The poverty rate is 12.5%, contributing to the economic landscape.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Hawaii has a lower violent crime rate compared to the national average, with 201.9 incidents per 100,000 people in 2025, a 26.8% decrease from 2022. Property crime is slightly higher at 1,601.9 per 100,000 people, which is 3.6% above the national rate of 1,546.9. However, significant improvements have been seen, particularly in burglary, which decreased by 25.9% during the same period.
- Violent crime: 201.9 per 100,000 vs. national 325.3, down 26.8% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,601.9 per 100,000 vs. national 1,546.9, down 38.2% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has dropped by 56% since 2022, now at 1.2 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Hawaii).
Schools & Higher Ed
In Kailua Kona, there is 1 postsecondary institution available.
- Mauna Loa Helicopters is located in Kailua Kona.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES.
Weather & Getting Outside
Kailua Kona experiences significant rainfall, with an annual total of 80.7 inches and around 210 rainy days. The climate is warm, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
- La'aloa Beach Park (aka Magic Sands) - 4.6 stars from 5,200 reviews
- Kahalu'u Beach Park - 4.6 stars from 4,097 reviews
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park - 4.7 stars from 2,739 reviews
- Kekaha Kai State Beach - 4.7 stars from 2,299 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Hawaii County shows a relatively stable economy with an unemployment rate of 2.5% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 2.5% in December 2025.
- Employment: 89,258 people employed.
- Labor force: 91,574 people.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.