What is the Cheapest Town to Live on the Big Island, Hawaii?

Aloha! If you’re wondering about the cheapest town to live on the Big Island, Hawaii, you’re not alone. With its mix of lush landscapes, small-town charm, and more affordable real estate options, places like Pahoa and Mountain View provide great alternatives to higher-cost towns. Today, we’ll explore some of the most affordable towns on the Big Island, where you can enjoy island life on a budget.

Let’s take a look at some of the most affordable areas, considering factors like housing costs, groceries, access to amenities, and overall living expenses. I’ll also include some FAQs at the end to answer more specific questions.

1. Pahoa – An Affordable Option with a Unique Vibe

Pahoa is often considered one of the most affordable places to live on the Big Island. Located in the Puna District, Pahoa offers a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path lifestyle that appeals to those who appreciate a slower pace.

• Housing Costs: Pahoa has some of the lowest housing costs on the island. You can find single-family homes ranging from $300,000 to $500,000, and land parcels are also relatively affordable if you’re considering building.
• Amenities: While Pahoa is on the smaller side, it has basic amenities like grocery stores, local restaurants, and cafes. Pahoa Town even has a health food store, a farmer’s market, and an eclectic selection of shops.
• Living Expenses: Groceries and gas tend to be pricier in Pahoa, as with most rural parts of the island, but the lower housing costs help balance it out.
• Pros: Affordable homes, artistic community, beautiful natural surroundings, and a peaceful lifestyle.
• Cons: Fewer amenities than larger towns, limited healthcare facilities, and located in Lava Zone 1 (which can affect property insurance and mortgage options).

2. Hilo – Affordable Living with Urban Conveniences

Hilo is another affordable option on the Big Island, and it comes with the bonus of being the island’s largest city. With its lush, tropical surroundings, Hilo offers a beautiful natural setting and more urban amenities than you’ll find in Pahoa.

• Housing Costs: In Hilo, home prices are more affordable than in the Kona area, with the median home price typically between $400,000 and $600,000. Rentals are also more reasonable compared to other parts of the island.
• Amenities: Hilo has everything you’d need for comfortable living—grocery stores, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, and a university.
• Living Expenses: While groceries and utilities are similar to other parts of Hawaii, you can save on transportation costs because Hilo is a well-developed town where most essentials are nearby.
• Pros: Access to urban amenities, lower housing costs, beautiful botanical gardens, and proximity to parks and waterfalls.
• Cons: Hilo is known for its rainy weather, which some people love and others find challenging.

3. Mountain View – Affordable Rural Living

If you’re seeking a rural lifestyle but still want to be within a reasonable drive to a city, Mountain View is worth considering. Located between Hilo and Volcano, it offers a quiet, countryside setting with affordable property prices.

• Housing Costs: Homes and land in Mountain View are affordable, with properties ranging from $250,000 to $450,000 for single-family homes. You can find larger plots of land here, ideal if you’re looking to live a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
• Amenities: While Mountain View itself has limited amenities, you’re within a 30-minute drive of Hilo for all major services. Mountain View also has a small grocery store and a few local eateries.
• Living Expenses: You may save on housing and property costs, but expect to spend on gas and transportation to reach larger stores in Hilo.
• Pros: Rural charm, affordable land, and a close-knit community.
• Cons: Limited amenities, need for transportation, and high rainfall.

4. Na’alehu – Affordable with a True Small-Town Feel

Na’alehu, located in the southern part of the island, is one of the most affordable and scenic towns on the Big Island. This charming area offers a small-town vibe, with residents who are deeply connected to the land and ocean.

• Housing Costs: In Na’alehu, homes are generally quite affordable, with prices averaging from $300,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and location.
• Amenities: While Na’alehu is quite small, it has basic amenities, including a grocery store, a post office, a few local restaurants, and a community center. For additional amenities, you’ll need to drive about 40 minutes to Hilo or Kona.
• Living Expenses: Similar to other rural areas, grocery prices are a bit higher, and gas can be costly. However, you save with affordable housing and the natural abundance.
• Pros: Quiet lifestyle, strong community feel, natural beauty, and affordable housing.
• Cons: Limited amenities, distance from larger towns, and limited job opportunities nearby.

5. Honokaa – Affordable Small Town with Nearby Beaches and Hikes

Located in the Hamakua Coast, Honokaa is a small town with beautiful surroundings and a community-oriented atmosphere. If you love nature and are looking for affordable property close to lush landscapes and scenic coastlines, Honokaa might be for you.

• Housing Costs: Home prices range from $400,000 to $600,000, with a mix of historical homes and newer constructions.
• Amenities: Honokaa has essential amenities like grocery stores, local eateries, and a hospital. The town is known for its local theater and access to the scenic Waipio Valley.
• Living Expenses: Daily costs are moderate, with slightly elevated grocery and gas prices, though property taxes are relatively low.
• Pros: Beautiful surroundings, close to outdoor recreation, strong community, and affordable housing.
• Cons: Limited entertainment and dining options, and it’s a bit further from major shopping centers.

Town	Housing Cost	Amenities	Climate
Pahoa	$300,000-$500,000 for single-family	Basic groceries, local shops	Tropical, occasional rain
Hilo	$400,000-$600,000 for median homes	Hospitals, shopping malls	Rainy, lush green
Mountain View	$250,000-$450,000 for homes	Small grocery, local eateries	Cooler, countryside
Na’alehu	$300,000-$500,000 for homes	Basic amenities, quiet lifestyle	Rural, scenic coast

FAQs About Living in the Cheapest Towns on the Big Island

1. Which town on the Big Island is the most affordable overall?

Pahoa generally ranks as one of the most affordable towns, with very low housing costs compared to other areas on the island. It’s popular among those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path lifestyle.

2. Are utilities and groceries more affordable in these towns?

Not necessarily. Utilities and groceries tend to be comparable across the island, though they may be slightly more affordable in towns closer to major grocery stores, like Hilo.

3. What is Lava Zone 1, and how does it affect housing?

Lava Zone 1 indicates a high level of volcanic activity risk, and homes in these zones may have limited financing and insurance options. Pahoa and parts of Mountain View fall within Lava Zone 1, so it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re considering buying property there.

4. What’s the best town on a budget with easy access to a beach?

Hilo and Honokaa offer relatively affordable living and are close to beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and hiking spots. Hilo has easier access to shopping and healthcare facilities, making it convenient for residents.

5. Can I find affordable rentals in these towns?

Yes, Hilo and Pahoa are known for affordable rentals, although it may take some searching as housing demand has been high in recent years. Renting can be a great option if you’re not ready to buy.

Living affordably on the Big Island is possible, but it does require a little research into what each town has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the lush, tropical setting of Hilo, the small-town charm of Honokaa, or the rural vibe of Mountain View, there’s a place for everyone that won’t break the bank. Each town offers its own unique blend of community, nature, and cost savings, so take your time, explore, and find the one that feels right for you.

Looking for affordable living on the Big Island? Reach out today to learn more about real estate options in Pahoa, Hilo, Mountain View, and beyond!