City Profile
Kihei, Hawaii
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Kihei is a vibrant census-designated place situated on the sunny southwest coast of Maui, Hawaii. Originally a modest collection of ancient Hawaiian fishing villages and later a ranching area, Kihei has evolved into one of Maui's premier resort and residential communities. Known for its miles of pristine coastline, including Kamaole Beach Parks, it offers residents a quintessential laid-back island lifestyle paired with modern conveniences. People are drawn to Kihei for its unmatched dry and sunny weather, stunning ocean sunsets, and proximity to some of the world's best humpback whale watching.
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 46/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 165.0 | 0.0 | 25% | 0.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $82,000 Income needed to live here: $68,000 Unemployment rate: 4.5% | 59.7 | 20% | 11.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.8% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 50.5 | 15% | 7.6 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 46.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (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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Expenses
Cost of Living
Living in Kihei entails a significantly higher cost of living compared to the United States national average, driven largely by Hawaii's island geography. Everything from imported groceries to building materials incurs steep shipping and transportation surcharges, pushing everyday expenses well above mainland baselines. Housing and energy costs are particularly burdensome, with electricity rates among the highest in the nation due to reliance on imported petroleum. Consequently, residents must budget extensively for utilities, fuel, and standard consumer goods.
Income
Salary Insights
The local economy of Kihei is heavily anchored by the tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors, supported by its extensive resort developments and vacation rentals. A significant portion of the workforce is employed by hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and small businesses catering to visiting tourists. Additionally, the Maui Research and Technology Center in nearby Kihei serves as a hub for the island's burgeoning tech and astronomical research sector. Remote workers have also increasingly chosen Kihei as a base, taking advantage of its inspiring natural environment.
The average salary in Kihei is $62,000 per year. You would need approximately $68,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Kihei relies heavily on personal automobiles, as public transit options are somewhat limited compared to major mainland metropolitan areas. The Maui Bus system does provide routes connecting Kihei to Kahului, Wailuku, and other parts of the island, but service frequencies are relatively low. Walkability and bikeability are quite high within specific beachside neighborhoods and commercial strips along South Kihei Road, though sidewalks can be sparse in outlying residential pockets. Most residents utilize cars to navigate the island's longer distances and steep terrain.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Kihei
What people ask about living in and moving to Kihei, Hawaii.
What should I know about moving my belongings to Kihei?
Moving to Kihei typically involves shipping items by sea or air, with sea freight being more economical for larger volumes but taking several weeks. Many relocation companies offer door‑to‑door service that includes packing, customs clearance, and delivery to your new address. Because of the island’s limited storage space, many newcomers downsize or use local storage facilities, which are listed on the city’s busines...
What kinds of jobs are most common for newcomers in Kihei?
Tourism and hospitality dominate the local job market, with many positions in hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Seasonal work is also common, especially during peak travel months. In addition, there are opportunities in healthcare, education, and retail that serve the resident population. For job seekers, the city’s employment services office, online job boards, and the regional chamber of commerce website lis...
How does the cost of living in Kihei compare to the U.S. average?
Kihei’s cost‑of‑living index is 165, meaning expenses are about 65 % higher than the national average (which is indexed at 100). This higher index is driven by housing, groceries, and transportation costs typical of island communities. With an average salary of $62,000 per year, a single household would need to allocate a larger share of income to rent and daily expenses than on the mainland. Planning a budget that c...
What public transportation options exist in Kihei?
Kihei is served by the county’s public bus system, which runs routes connecting the town to neighboring communities, shopping centers, and the main airport. Buses typically operate from early morning until late evening, with reduced service on weekends. For shorter trips, there are bike‑share programs and pedestrian‑friendly pathways along the coastline. Ride‑share services also operate in the area, offering flexible...
Is Kihei a good place to retire?
Kihei offers a relaxed, beach‑centric lifestyle with mild year‑round temperatures, making it attractive for retirees. The higher cost‑of‑living index (165) means budgeting is crucial; the average rent of $2,200 per month can be a significant expense, so many retirees consider shared housing or downsizing. Healthcare services are accessible through the island’s regional medical center and local clinics, which provide...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Kihei?
The average rent in Kihei is about $2,200 per month, which reflects the high demand for coastal housing. One‑bedroom units close to the shoreline often sit at or above this average, while apartments a few miles inland may be slightly cheaper. When budgeting, also factor in utilities, which can add $100‑$150 monthly. To get current listings, check regional rental websites, local classifieds, or the city’s housing auth...
What outdoor activities are popular for residents of Kihei?
Kihei’s coastal location makes snorkeling, paddleboarding, and surfing readily accessible, with several public beach access points and rental shops. Inland, there are trailheads that lead to scenic hikes through tropical forests and volcanic landscapes, offering options for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. The city also maintains parks with facilities for volleyball, jogging, and picnicking. For organized...
Are there public schools in Kihei that serve K‑12 students?
Kihei is served by the county school district, which operates several public elementary, middle, and high schools on Maui. The district’s website provides school boundary maps, enrollment procedures, and performance data, allowing families to identify which schools their address falls within. In addition to traditional public schools, there are charter and magnet options that focus on specific curricula, as well as p...
How safe is Kihei for families and solo residents?
Kihei has a safety score of 68 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety relative to other U.S. communities. Most incidents are property‑related, such as theft, rather than violent crime. The city’s police department publishes regular crime statistics on its website, and neighborhood watch groups are active in many areas. For families, it’s advisable to use standard precautions: secure doors and windows, keep...
Where can I find primary care and emergency services near Kihei?
The island’s health department oversees several clinics and a regional medical center that provide primary care, specialty services, and emergency treatment. In Kihei, there are community health centers offering walk‑in appointments and scheduled visits for chronic disease management. For urgent or emergency care, the nearest hospital with a full‑service emergency department is a short drive away and is reachable via...
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