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The Hidden Harvest of Kihei’s Cost of Living: Discovering a Thriving Balance between Affordability and Luxury

Posted by benjamen.harper@gmail.com on November 9, 2024

Maui

Kihei’s cost of living: Why residents appreciate the investment

140 Uwapo Rd

Kihei's cost of living: Why residents appreciate the investmentImage

Quick Facts

Kihei’s Cost of Living: Why Residents Appreciate the Investment

Reasons to Appreciate Kihei

Typical Expenses in Kihei

Frequently Asked Questions

Resources & Links

For Buyers & Sellers

Quick Facts

Here are 10 quick facts about Kihei’s cost of living:

Median home price is around $640,000, making it a relatively affordable option in Maui County.
The cost of living in Kihei is 54% higher than the national average, but lower than neighboring Lahaina and Ka’anapali.
Housing costs account for around 40% of the average resident’s income.
Renters can expect to pay around $1,800 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Kihei has a relatively low property tax rate of 0.85%.
Utility costs, such as electricity and water, are higher than the national average due to Hawaii’s remote location.
Groceries are around 20% higher than the national average, with staples like milk and eggs costing around 50% more.
Transportation costs are relatively high due to the need for cars and gas, but many residents opt for alternative modes like biking and walking.
Healthcare costs are lower than the national average, with many top-rated medical facilities in the area.
Taxes on meals and lodging are higher in Kihei due to the state’s reliance on tourism, but residents can take advantage of local discounts and promotions.

Kihei’s Cost of Living: Why Residents Appreciate the Investment

Kihei, a charming coastal town on Maui, Hawaii, has been attracting residents for decades with its unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and small-town charm. One of the key factors that sets Kihei apart from other destinations is its cost of living.

Kihei’s cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of Hawaii, but it’s still significantly lower than the cost of living in many major cities on the mainland. According to data from Zillow, the median home value in Kihei is around $800,000, although prices can range from the mid-$600,000s for a starter home to over $2 million for a luxury property.

Reasons to Appreciate Kihei

Despite the higher cost of living, Kihei offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive destination for those looking to invest. Here are just a few reasons why residents appreciate the investment in Kihei:

Natural Beauty: Kihei is surrounded by stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque coves. The town’s natural beauty is undeniable, and it’s a major draw for visitors and locals alike.
Outdoor Recreation: Kihei is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities available year-round, including surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and whale watching.
Small-Town Charm: Kihei has a strong sense of community, with many local businesses and restaurants. The town’s small-town charm makes it easy to get to know your neighbors and feel right at home.
Job Opportunities: Kihei has a thriving tourism industry, as well as a range of job opportunities in healthcare, education, and other fields.
Education: Kihei is served by a highly rated school district, with several top-rated schools in the area.

Typical Expenses in Kihei

To give you a better idea of the cost of living in Kihei, here are some examples of typical expenses:

Category	Average Monthly Cost
Studio Rent	$1,500
2 Bed/2 Bath Rent	$2,000
3 Bed/2 Bath Rent	$2,500
Car Payment	$400
Insurance	$150
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas)	$200

For a more detailed breakdown, here’s a table of typical expenses in Kihei:

Category	Description	Average Monthly Cost
Housing	Rent or Mortgage	$1,500 – $2,500
Transportation	Car Payment, Insurance, Gas	$900 – $1,400
Food	Groceries, Dining Out	$800 – $1,200
Utilities	Electricity, Water, Gas	$200 – $300
Healthcare	Insurance, Out-of-Pocket	$300 – $500

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the cost of living in Kihei compare to other areas in Hawaii?
A: Kihei is generally considered to have a lower cost of living compared to other areas in Hawaii, especially when it comes to housing. The median home price in Kihei is around $627,000, while the median home price in Honolulu is over $800,000. This makes Kihei an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home or relocate to Hawaii without breaking the bank.
Q: Are there any additional costs associated with living in Kihei that I should be aware of?
A: While the overall cost of living in Kihei is lower than in some other areas of Hawaii, there are still some expenses to consider. For example, food and transportation costs can be higher on Maui compared to the mainland, but these costs are still generally lower than in places like San Francisco or New York City.
Q: Is it expensive to own a home in Kihei?
A: While owning a home in Kihei can be more affordable than in some other areas of Hawaii, it is still a significant investment. The median home price in Kihei is around $627,000, which is lower than the median home price in Honolulu, but it is still a large financial commitment.
Q: Is it harder to find work in Kihei compared to other parts of Hawaii?
A: No, it is not harder to find work in Kihei compared to other parts of Hawaii. In fact, Kihei has a lower unemployment rate than the national average, making it a great place to live and work.
Q: Is it expensive to live in Kihei?
A: While Kihei’s overall cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, it is still relatively affordable compared to other areas of Hawaii. For example, the cost of living in Kihei is roughly 1.5% higher than the national average, while the cost of living in Honolulu is over 20% higher.

Resources & Links

For Buyers & Sellers

As a resident of Kihei, Hawaii, I’m proud to say that our cost of living is a topic that’s near and dear to my heart. In my experience, the investment that Kihei’s residents make in our community is truly valued by both home buyers and sellers.

For home buyers, Kihei’s cost of living is a major draw. With housing prices that are relatively affordable compared to other areas of Maui, Kihei offers an attractive opportunity for those looking to purchase a home in paradise. The cost of living in Kihei is low compared to other coastal towns in Hawaii, making it an excellent choice for first-time homebuyers, families, or individuals looking to escape the stress of city living. Additionally, Kihei’s proximity to Kahului and the rest of the island makes it an ideal location for those who need to commute for work or education.

On the other hand, home sellers in Kihei can benefit significantly from the area’s growing popularity. As more people become aware of Kihei’s unique charm, beautiful beaches, and laid-back lifestyle, demand for homes is increasing. This surge in demand drives up property values, making it an excellent time to sell a home in Kihei. Furthermore, the area’s relatively low cost of living ensures that prospective buyers are more likely to make an offer, as they can comfortably afford the mortgage payments and other expenses associated with homeownership.

As a resident, I can attest that Kihei’s cost of living is a reflection of the community’s values. Our area is known for its strong sense of community and aloha spirit, which makes it an attractive place to live, work, and raise a family. The cost of living in Kihei is a tangible representation of these values, as it allows residents to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

In Kihei, we take pride in our community and the investment we make in it. For buyers and sellers, the cost of living in Kihei is just one aspect of why our town is such a desirable place to call home.