19 Best Places to Live in Hawaii [2024]

If you're thinking about moving to Hawaii, congratulations! It's hard not to find happiness a place that smells like tropical flowers when you exit the airplane. Hawaii has long been known for its tropical landscapes, unique island heritage, and inviting aloha spirit, and living in Hawaii allows you to experience the magic of those characteristics all year long.

Of course, with high moving costs and few resources that provide in-depth comparisons of these cities for renters, finding the perfect place to settle down can be hard. In this guide, however, we’ll provide you with all you need to know about securing an apartment in your ideal haven, whether it’s the bustling streets of Oahu or the hidden gems of Maui.

19 Best Places to Live in Hawaii

How We Chose the Best Places in Hawaii

While what constitutes the "best" city or town can vary widely, we made our selections based on consideration of economic opportunities, rent prices (presenting a mix of both high-end and affordable neighborhoods), overall desirability and trendiness of an area, transit scores/location, and features of a location that make it either appealing or outstanding (such as proximity to great amenities or destinations).

Also, a note about data: All of the rental data included here comes from the current listings on our website. Where possible, we have included averages, and if averages aren’t available, we defer to starting rents. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

1. Honolulu

• Population: 337,088
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,000
• Median household income (Honolulu County): $92,600
• Walk score: 66
• Transit score: 56
• Bike score: 51

It might be a bit cliche to pick Honolulu as our top recommendation for Hawaii, but honestly, we're fine with being cliche. Living in Honolulu gives you access to everything from high-rise apartment buildings to sandy beaches. The state capital sits on the southern shores of Oahu, and for many people, it’s a bucket list travel destination. Plus, you’re never far from some of the island’s finest outdoor excursions, such as the Diamond Head Crater Trailhead, the Koko Crater Railway Trailhead, and Manoa Falls. So between availability of housing, economic strength, and proximity to great destinations, we had to make Honolulu our top choice.

If the hustle and bustle aren't what you’re after, though, we have plenty more picks from parts of the islands where life moves more slowly.

2. Maunawili

• Population: 2,071
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $4,600
• Median household income: $159,583
• Walk score: 11
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 7

Maunawili might just be the most beautiful place to live in Hawaii. Not only does this small town offer easy access to both Kailua Beach Park and Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, both of which provide endless outdoor activities, but since you’re also just north of Honolulu, you can enjoy easy commutes and better access to job opportunities.

While you won’t find any local commercial businesses in Maunawili, the high number of tourists coming through has opened the area up to plenty of unique activities, from hiking tours to some of the best surfing in the world. The city has a prevalent coastal culture, though be prepared to pay big for it.

3. Kailua

• Population: 40,514
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,500
• Median household income: $133,327
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 44

Kailua residents continuously boast about their high quality of life, and it’s easy to see why. With an easy commute in the city, loads of highly rated public schools, and plenty of new developments to check out, it’s one of the best cities on Oahu.

The city’s motto is “shop, dine, explore,” and even with its suburban feel, you can expect to see tourists filtering in and out of the area year-round. The true jewels of the city are the many nearby beaches, offering some of the clearest blue waters your eyes will ever see.

4. Mililani Town

• Population: 28,121
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,200
• Median household income: $108,192
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 36
• Bike score: 30

Mililani Town lies in central Oahu and is different than its neighboring city, Mililani Mauka, in that it has higher-rated schools, plenty of amenities, and growing job opportunities. The town association oversees public space upkeep, and residents have access to several restaurants and shopping centers throughout the Oahu region.

From familiar American chain businesses to one of the best golf clubs in the state, the Mililani Golf Club, there’s never a dull moment in Mililani Town. Of course, as what some call the best part of Hawaii to visit, living here can be costly, so get ready to spend a pretty penny on rent.

5. Wailuku

• Population: 17,697
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,370
• Median household income:** **$83,393
• Walk score: 74
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 26

Wailuku offers a different vibe than the bustling, tourist-centric places in Hawaii. The Maui town offers a simple style of living with relatively easy access to larger amenities and plenty of outdoor activities, from Kepaniwai Park to the Maui Zipline Company.

Wailuku is one of the most family-friendly cities on the island — and with a quiet atmosphere and proximity to the sea, it is great for anyone who wants to pick up watersports like surfing or snorkeling. Just note that while you will enjoy the tranquility Wailuku has to offer, finding employment opportunities can be quite difficult.

6. Waikele

• Population: 7,509
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,830
• Median household income: $106,042
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

Waikele (a census-designated area within Waipahu) has become a very popular Oahu town for millennials over the past few years, as it’s relatively affordable compared to the rest of Hawaii. As former sugar plantation land, there’s plenty of history here.

However, there’s still plenty to do in modern-day Waikele, whether it’s taking the kids out for a day at Pasty T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park or hitting a round at the Waikele Country Club. There’s even a popular outlet mall in the area with numerous designer stores. In terms of rentals, you can expect to find a decent mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and gated communities in Waikele.

7. Holualoa

• Population: 6,107
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,800
• Median household income: $84,205
• Walk score: 1
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 19

Holualoa sits adjacent to Kailua-Kona, which is best known for its world-famous coffee. While here, you’ll no doubt immerse yourself in the region’s coffee culture, whether sipping coffee at a local cafe or taking a tour of the Kona Coffee plant.

Located on the western portion of the Big Island (aka the Island of Hawaii), residents here enjoy proximity to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and a pleasant downtown area. You’ll also find plenty of wonderful art galleries and a bustling arts scene. Do note that rent prices in Holualoa are slightly higher than most cities on the Big Island, though crime rates are a bit lower.

8. Waimalu

• Population: 13,817
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,420
• Median household income: $80,613
• Walk score: 24
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 10

Waimalu sits between Aiea and Pearly City atop the East Loch of Pearl Harbor, offering one of the most unique historical backgrounds of any place in the state. The population here is relatively transient, with more than 50% of people renting, keeping the area feeling fresh.

There are endless activities to enjoy, including the Pearlridge Farmers Market, a bowling alley, Tropics Mini Golf, and the Pearl Country Club. There’s also ample green space open to the public at Pearl City District Park, Waiau District Park, and Newtown Park. Overall, it might just be the best place to live on Oahu if you’re looking for a relatively low cost of living and a laid-back lifestyle.

9. Haiku-Pauwela

• Population: 8,595
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,100
• Median household income: $87,072
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 2

Many say that Maui is one of the best Hawaiian islands to live on, and with the beauty and tranquility of places like Haiku-Pauwela, it’s hard to argue. This north-shore community is extremely safe yet more affordable for renters than most of Maui.

You’ll find endless hiking and biking opportunities and a plethora of seaside restaurants that you can enjoy with the whole family. The local zip line tour is one of the biggest attractions on the island. While living here, you’ll also get to take advantage of shopping at the Pauwela Store, one of the main, family-owned staple shops in the area.

10. Kapaa

• Population: 11,652
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,800
• Median household income: $94,457
• Walk score: 1
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 13

Kapaa is the most populated town on the island of Kauai, though residents here get to enjoy relatively lower rental costs than in other parts of Hawaii. The city is a popular tourist destination, which is one of the reasons you’ll find so many restaurants, stores, and watersport rental shops here.

The Kinipopo Shopping Village, in particular, is one of the highlights of the area, where you can find several boutique stores and bakeries. However, if you want to take advantage of the natural splendor that the region has to offer, you can head to sites like the Sleeping Giant Trailhead or the Kauai Path.

11. Wailua Homesteads

• Population: 5,863
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $3,730
• Median household income: $109,940
• Walk score: 27
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 35

Head to the eastern side of Kauai, and you’ll find one of the best places in Hawaii for families seeking peace and quiet — the Wailua Homesteads. This small community enjoys low crime rates and the seemingly untouched beauty of the natural landscape.

As you make your way up the hill from the heart of Wailua, you’ll find a number of unique apartments and homes, many with fantastic views of the ocean. While you won’t find plenty of big-city amenities here, you will find a great local corner store and some of the best hiking trails Hawaii has to offer.

12. Waikapu

• Population: 4,002
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,185
• Median household income: $110,076
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

While Waikapu isn’t necessarily the cheapest place to live in Hawaii, this small Maui town offers a relatively low cost of living and a tight-knit community to match. Upon its founding, the city was known for its sugar production, drawing plantation workers in from all over the island, which helped boost its economy.

Nowadays, you’ll find an accessible and amenity-rich town square, well-maintained public gardens, and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, making it an excellent location for families. Plus, you’re within 45 minutes of some of Maui’s best beaches, including Napili Bay, Wailea Beach, and Kaanapali Beach.

13. Ocean Pointe

• Population: 14,965
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,830
• Median household income: $127,254
• Walk score: 11
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 54

Take a short drive to the south of Mililani, and you’ll find Ocean Pointe, a relatively small coastal housing development adjacent to the gorgeous Mamala Bay. With its up-and-coming trajectory, it’s getting more expensive by the day, so snapping a place up sooner rather than later is a good idea.

From Coral Crater Adventure Park to Hawaii Prince Golf Club to miles of white sand beaches, there are endless opportunities for entertainment in Ocean Pointe.

14. Kapolei

• Population: 21,411
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,680
• Median household income: $116,218
• Walk score: 48
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 45

Right up there next to Honolulu, Kapolei is known as the “second city” of Hawaii. Here, you’ll find plenty of rental options and job opportunities, no matter what style of life you’re looking for.

With just over 21,000 residents in Kapolei, you won’t feel the hustle and bustle as much as you would in Honolulu. There’s still plenty to do here, however, from taking on the big slides at Wet ’n’ Wild Hawaii to enjoying a bit of retail therapy at the Ka Makana Alii shopping mall. This town has plenty of shopping options, including Walmart, Safeway, Target, Costco, and more.

15. Princeville

• Population: 1,969
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,591
• Median household income: $70,625
• Walk score: 18
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 36

With an excellent coastal location, a diverse population, and some of the best public schools in the region, Princeville has it all. You’ll find over 9,000 acres of condos, apartments, vacation homes, and more, so you’ll no doubt find the perfect place to call home.

You’re also never far from some of Kauai’s best scenic spots, including the Hanalei Pier and Queen’s Bath. Even beyond that, the lush green spaces are never-ending, and with close access to Pali Ke Kua Beach and Princeville Makai Golf Club, there’s always something to do.

16. Kula

• Population: 6,492
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $4,500
• Median household income: $86,938
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A

Though Kula has a large population of retirees, just about anyone can enjoy living in this quaint Maui town. It’s a super laid-back place that’s removed from the rest of the hustle and bustle of the more popular areas of Hawaii — perfect for anyone who’s looking for a slower pace of life.

Just note that while there are many excellent schools and lush natural spaces in the area, it’s not very developed overall, so beyond ocean sports, you might have difficulty staying entertained or enjoying extracurriculars. With that said, if slow-paced activities are attractive to you, be it wine tasting or touring the botanical gardens, then it’s one of the best towns on the prettiest island in Hawaii.

17. Pearl City

• Population: 45,295
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,250
• Median household income: $108,772
• Walk score: 27
• Transit score: 36
• Bike score: 22

Back on Oahu, we have Pearl City, which sits just north of Honolulu’s international airport. The city is relatively large, and with so many things to do, you’ll never have a dull moment. Whether it’s soaking in the history at the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, knocking down some pins at Leeward Bowl, or heading into neighboring Honolulu for more attractions, the fun never ends.

Approximately 50% of the population of Pearl City comprises military members, who promote a very tight-knit community. Plus, with less than a 20-minute drive to downtown Honolulu, you’re never far from job opportunities and additional nightlife.

18. Kaneohe

• Population: 37,430
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,440
• Median household income: $118,770
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: 36
• Bike score: 28

Living in Oahu, you’ll find just about any kind of lifestyle you’d like, and in the most populated city on Oahu’s windward side, you can enjoy the true laid-back island lifestyle surrounded by the mountains and ocean.

Residents in Kaneohe enjoy ocean sports, from snorkeling to fishing to scuba diving and beyond. You can take a boat to the iconic Kaneohe Bay or paddle a kayak to Coconut Island. From military members staying on Mokapu Peninsula’s Marine Corps Base to college students attending Winward Community College, the population here is just as diverse as the landscape. Green space surrounds the town, so you can spend a calming afternoon at the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, the Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden, or the Puu Maelieli Trail.

19. Paia

• Population: 2,410
• Average two-bedroom apartment rent: $2,812
• Median household income: $112,292
• Walk score: 62
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 42

Paia is one of Maui’s most historic towns. As a place that was once a booming plantation community, it’s now home to restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries. With the prime wind and waves from the North Shore, people come here from around the world to surf, kitesurf, and windsurf.

As for the town itself, it’s small-town charm all the way. In fact, it has somewhat of a hippy vibe, and you’ll find plenty of health food stores, surf shops, and coffee spots around town to match. If a high quality of life is one of your top priorities and you’re still searching for where to live in Hawaii, Paia is a solid choice.

Find Your Next Apartment in Hawaii

Hawaii is an absolutely wonderful place to lay roots, and with some of the most beautiful cities and towns on Earth, you’ll be able to enjoy Hawaiian living in any fashion you find suitable.

We hope our list of the best places in Hawaii gave you the inspiration to find your ideal rental. When you’re ready to take the leap and start looking, take our personalized quiz. With us, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.