City Profile
Kapolei, Hawaii
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Kapolei, often referred to as Oahu's "Second City," is a master-planned community located on the island's west side. Designated as an urban center in 1977, it has rapidly grown into a vibrant hub offering a blend of urban amenities and a relaxed suburban lifestyle. The city is known for its modern infrastructure, family-friendly environment, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and recreational facilities. Its strategic location provides a relatively short commute to military bases and downtown Honolulu, making it an attractive destination for families and professionals seeking a balance between island living and urban convenience. Kapolei continues to expand, with ongoing development projects enhancing its appeal as a dynamic place to live and work.
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 56/100 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): 151.0 | 0.0 | 25% | 0.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $128,324 Income needed to live here: $85,000 Unemployment rate: 2.4% | 91.9 | 20% | 18.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 2.49% Job growth rate: 0.5% | 58.6 | 15% | 8.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 56.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=90 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
25 July 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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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Kapolei, Hawaii, is notably higher than the national average, with an index of 151, indicating it is 51% more expensive than the U.S. average as of June 2026. This elevated cost is primarily driven by housing, utilities, and groceries, which are significantly impacted by Hawaii's island geography and reliance on imported goods. For instance, average monthly utility costs, including electricity and internet, are around $396, while monthly groceries for one person average $459. Despite these higher expenses, Kapolei offers a diverse range of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes, which can be relatively more affordable compared to some of Oahu's more established and expensive neighborhoods.
Income
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Kapolei's economy is characterized by a solid labor market, with Honolulu County, where Kapolei is situated, reporting an unemployment rate of 2.4% in May 2026. The city benefits from a growing employment center, offering opportunities across various sectors. Key industries driving Kapolei's economy include Retail, Accommodation & Food Services, Healthcare & Social Assistance, Construction, and Technology. While Hawaii's overall non-agricultural job growth has been mixed, the private sector, particularly in Health Care & Social Assistance and Construction, has seen job gains. The city's development as Oahu's "Second City" continues to foster economic expansion and job creation.
The average salary in Kapolei is $46,510 per year. You would need approximately $85,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Kapolei is largely car-dependent, with a walkability score of 40 out of 100 and a transit score of 30 out of 100, indicating limited public transit options as of July 2026. The average commute time for workers is 31.2 minutes. While the city has bus lines, most errands require a car. Traffic congestion can be a drawback, particularly during commute hours, as Honolulu County experienced an average congestion level of 50.5% in 2025. The ongoing development of a rail transit system is expected to improve connectivity in the future.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Kapolei
What people ask about living in and moving to Kapolei, Hawaii.
How are public schools rated in Kapolei?
Kapolei is served by the state’s public school system, which publishes school performance reports on its department website. Generally, schools in the area perform at or slightly above the state average, with particular strengths in STEM and Hawaiian cultural programs. For precise ratings, test scores, and enrollment procedures, visit the school district’s online portal and review the latest annual report cards. You...
How does the cost of living in Kapolei compare to the U.S. average?
Kapolei’s cost‑of‑living index is 151, meaning it is about 51 % higher than the national average of 100. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and dining out tend to be more expensive than on the mainland, while housing costs are a major driver of the higher index. The average rent in Kapolei is $3,420 per month, which is well above the U.S. median. To manage the higher cost, many residents supplement incom...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Kapolei?
The average rent across all housing types in Kapolei is $3,420 per month. One‑bedroom units generally fall below this average but still tend to be in the $2,800‑$3,200 range, depending on location, age of the building, and amenities. Rental listings are posted on regional housing websites and through local property management firms. When searching, filter for “Kapolei” and specify the number of bedrooms to see curren...
What are the average salaries in Kapolei and what industries dominate?
The average annual salary in Kapolei is $46,510. The local economy is anchored by tourism, retail, and government services, with many jobs also in education, healthcare, and construction. While the average salary is lower than many mainland metros, wages in specialized fields such as engineering, finance, or healthcare can be higher than the city average. Job seekers should check the city’s employment portal, regiona...
Where can I find primary care and emergency services in Kapolei?
Kapolei has several medical clinics offering primary‑care services, as listed on the state health department’s provider directory. For emergency care, the nearest hospital is located a short drive away in a neighboring city, with ambulance services coordinated by the county’s emergency management office. You can search for doctors by specialty, insurance acceptance, and patient reviews on the health department’s webs...
What should I know about moving my belongings to Kapolei?
When moving to Kapolei, consider that shipping costs to Hawaii are higher than mainland moves due to distance and island logistics. Many moving companies offer container services that deliver to the island’s main port, after which local carriers handle final delivery. It’s important to obtain quotes that include insurance and any storage fees. The city’s planning department provides guidelines on parking permits for...
What’s the overall lifestyle like in Kapolei?
Kapolei blends suburban convenience with a laid‑back island atmosphere. Residents enjoy relatively affordable housing compared with Honolulu, though the cost of living remains above the national average. The community offers a mix of shopping centers, schools, and recreational spaces, while still being close to beaches and natural attractions. The moderate safety score and active neighborhood groups contribute to a f...
Is Kapolei a safe place to live?
Kapolei has a safety score of 74 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety compared with other U.S. communities. The city’s police department provides regular crime statistics on its website, and the score reflects lower rates of violent crime but a higher incidence of property offenses typical of growing suburban areas. Residents often participate in neighborhood watch programs and use community safety apps....
What public transportation options are available in Kapolei?
Kapolei is served by the regional transit authority, which operates bus routes connecting the city to downtown Honolulu, the airport, and surrounding suburbs. There are also commuter express services during peak hours that reduce travel time to major employment centers. Schedules and route maps are available on the transit authority’s website, and mobile apps provide real‑time bus tracking. For longer trips, the city...
What outdoor activities are popular in Kapolei?
Kapolei offers easy access to coastal parks, surf spots, and nearby nature trails that are popular for hiking, biking, and paddle‑boarding. The city’s parks department maintains several beachfront areas with picnic facilities and public restrooms, while the regional trail system connects to larger state parks featuring moderate hikes with ocean views. Information on trail conditions, beach advisories, and equipment r...
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