Hawaii is often pictured as a dreamy tropical escape, with its stunning beaches, lush scenery, and rich culture drawing visitors from around the globe. While it’s known for being pricey, finding an affordable vacation rental isn’t impossible—you just need to know where to look! Whether you’re planning a getaway, a long-term stay, or even considering a move, there are budget-friendly spots across the islands that let you experience Hawaii without breaking the bank. In this post, we’ll dive into the most affordable places to rent in Hawaii and share some tips for scoring the best deals.
1. Hilo, Big Island
When people think of Hawaii, places like Honolulu and Maui often come to mind, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Big Island has some great alternatives—like Hilo. As the largest city on the Big Island, Hilo offers a lower cost of living compared to hotspots like Kailua-Kona. Renting here is generally more affordable, with options ranging from cozy apartments to spacious homes at prices that beat those in other Hawaiian cities.
Beyond affordability, Hilo is packed with charm. Its relaxed vibe, stunning waterfalls, and easy access to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park make it an ideal choice for nature lovers who want to experience Hawaii’s beauty without the steep costs. Just keep in mind—Hilo is one of the rainiest places in Hawaii. But for many, the frequent showers only add to the island’s lush, tropical appeal!
Average Rental Prices in Hilo:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200–$1,600 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,600–$2,400 per month
Tip: Look for rentals a bit further from the city center to find even more affordable options. The surrounding neighborhoods and rural areas can offer lower rents while still being close enough to enjoy Hilo’s amenities.
2. Kailua, Oahu
Despite Oahu’s reputation for having some of Hawaii’s highest rental costs, if you know where to search, you can still find some affordable areas. Kailua, on the east side of the island, is one such location. Kailua, which is well-known for its gorgeous beaches, calm waters, and laid-back atmosphere, has a variety of rental alternatives that can be more affordable, particularly if you’re willing to go for a smaller room or a location a little further from the shore.
Compared to Honolulu, Kailua offers a more residential feel and slower pace of life, making it a great choice for families, professionals, or retirees who want to be close to Oahu’s cultural amenities but don’t want to pay Honolulu’s steep rental rates. While you won’t find the same urban excitement here, Kailua still provides easy access to some of Oahu’s most famous attractions, such as Lanikai Beach and the Mokulua Islands.
Average Rental Prices in Kailua:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,600–$2,200 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $2,200–$3,200 per month
Tip: For a more budget-friendly option, consider renting in neighborhoods like Enchanted Lake or beyond Kailua’s main commercial area, where prices tend to be lower.
3. Wailuku, Maui
Maui is famous for its luxury resorts and expensive beachfront properties, but if you’re looking for a more affordable option, Wailuku is worth considering. Located just a short drive from the island’s busiest tourist areas, Wailuku offers more budget-friendly rentals while still keeping you close to Maui’s top attractions. As the county seat of Maui County, it offers a more laid-back, authentic Hawaiian experience, with a slower pace of life compared to the hustle and bustle of Lahaina or Kihei.The area is filled with rich history, charming local shops, and is just a short drive from stunning beaches, making it a great base for exploring the island.
Renting in Wailuku can be significantly more affordable than in more popular tourist areas of Maui. You’ll find both apartments and single-family homes that offer great value, especially if you’re looking for a longer-term rental.
Average Rental Prices in Wailuku:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,500–$2,000 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $2,100–$2,800 per month
Tip: Look for rentals in areas a bit further from the town center, such as in neighborhoods like Waikapu or around the lush countryside of the Iao Valley, to find even more affordable rentals.
4. Pahoa, Big Island
For those who want a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Pahoa on the Big Island offers some of the most affordable rent in Hawaii. Located on the eastern side of the island, Pahoa is a rural community with a quirky, eclectic vibe. The town offers a mix of affordable apartments, houses, and cottages, many of which are much less expensive than properties in more popular areas of the state.
Pahoa is also known for its proximity to the Lava Tree State Monument and the Puna District, which is home to beautiful, wild landscapes. However, the town is less developed than other areas in Hawaii, and the cost of living is relatively low, making it a great choice for those who don’t mind a more remote lifestyle.
Average Rental Prices in Pahoa:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $800–$1,200 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,200–$1,800 per month
Tip: Renting further from the center of Pahoa or in nearby rural areas will offer you the most affordable options.
5. Kapaa, Kauai
Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle” due to its lush landscapes and relaxed vibe, offers a more tranquil pace of life than the other Hawaiian islands. While places like Princeville and Hanalei can be pricey, Kapaa on the eastern shore presents a more budget-friendly rental option. With its quaint small-town charm, stunning beaches, and easy access to outdoor activities, Kapaa offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and everyday convenience.
As a popular residential area for locals, Kapaa tends to have lower rental prices than some of the more tourist-focused towns on the island. Whether you’re interested in renting a cozy apartment, a townhouse, or a small house, you’ll find more budget-friendly options in Kapaa compared to other parts of Kauai.
Average Rental Prices in Kapaa:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,500–$2,100 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $2,200–$3,200 per month
Tip: Consider staying in neighborhoods like Wailua or beyond the main highway to find more affordable rentals, as these areas tend to have lower rents compared to central Kapaa.
6. Waimea, Big Island
Waimea, situated in the center of the Big Island, offers a serene, rural escape from the island’s more tourist-heavy spots like Kona and Hilo. Popular among those looking for a slower pace of life, Waimea also boasts more affordable housing options than many other areas in Hawaii. Steeped in ranching history and near Parker Ranch—one of the largest cattle ranches in the U.S.—Waimea provides a unique Hawaiian experience with the added benefit of budget-friendly rental prices.
Average Rental Prices in Waimea:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200–$1,600 per month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,800–$2,500 per month
Tip: Consider rentals a little further out from the town center, where properties are more affordable and you’ll enjoy a more peaceful, rural environment.
Conclusion
While Hawaii is undoubtedly an expensive place to live and vacation, there are still affordable rental options available for those who know where to look. Areas like Hilo, Kailua, Wailuku, Pahoa, Kapaa, and Waimea offer budget-friendly choices for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Hawaii without breaking the bank. By considering less tourist-heavy locations and opting for smaller or more rural properties, you can find great value in renting a place in this paradise. With a little research and flexibility, you can enjoy an affordable stay in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
