City Profile
Kaneohe, Hawaii
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Kaneohe is a scenic windward community on the island of Oahu, framed by the majestic Ko'olau mountain range and overlooking Kaneohe Bay. Historically rich as an agricultural and fishing center for ancient Hawaiians, it has evolved into a vibrant residential suburb with a strong sense of local community. People are drawn to Kaneohe for its breathtaking natural beauty, relaxed island pace, and convenient proximity to Honolulu via the Likelike or H-3 highways.
Hawaii is characterized by its unique island geography, diverse cultural heritage, and a pervasive "Aloha Spirit" emphasizing love, compassion, and community. The economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which is the largest industry, contributing significantly to the state's gross product. Other major industries include military defense, diversified agriculture, and emerging sectors like healthcare, technology, and renewable energy. Living in Hawaii is notably expensive, with a cost of living index nearly double the national average, primarily driven by high housing, utility, and grocery costs due to its isolated location and dependence on imports. The climate is tropical with year-round warm temperatures, consistent trade winds, and distinct wet and dry seasons, though local variations can range from humid tropical to alpine. The lifestyle is generally laid-back and deeply connected to outdoor activities and nature, with residents enjoying a high life expectancy.
How this 50/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 74 / 100 | 74.0 | 30% | 22.2 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 175.0 | 0.0 | 25% | 0.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $105,000 Income needed to live here: $85,000 Unemployment rate: 3.2% | 69.7 | 20% | 13.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.4% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 45.5 | 15% | 6.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 49.5 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
15 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Kaneohe is significantly higher than the U.S. national average, driven primarily by housing expenses, imported goods, and energy costs. Because Hawaii is an island state, nearly all consumer goods, fuel, and building materials must be shipped in, elevating daily expenses for residents. Despite these high costs, the exceptional quality of life, natural surroundings, and safety make it a highly desirable place to live for those who can afford it.
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Kaneohe's local economy is anchored by the nearby Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) in Kaneohe Bay, healthcare services, retail centers like Windward Mall, and tourism-adjacent businesses. Many residents also commute into downtown Honolulu for professional, government, and corporate employment opportunities. The remote work scene has expanded post-pandemic, allowing tech and professional service workers to enjoy island life while maintaining mainland or remote positions.
The average salary in Kaneohe is $72,000 per year. You would need approximately $85,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Kaneohe primarily relies on automobiles, as the community is heavily car-dependent despite being served by TheBus public transit system. Commuting to Honolulu requires navigating the Likelike Highway, Pali Highway, or the H-3 tunnel, which can experience heavy rush-hour congestion. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood, with commercial strips being pedestrian-friendly while hillside residential areas necessitate a vehicle.
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