Hawaii may have a reputation for jaw-dropping real estate prices, but there are still places across the islands where homeownership isn’t out of reach. According to the Zillow Home Value Index, these 18 towns have the lowest home prices in the state as of early 2025. From tucked-away plantation towns to under-the-radar beach communities, they offer rare opportunities to buy in without breaking the bank.
While still more affordable than most of Hawaii, many of these towns are seeing steady price growth, thanks to rising interest from local buyers and off-island newcomers alike. For anyone curious about where affordability still lives in the Aloha State, this list reveals the towns that balance cost, character, and long-term potential.
18. Waianae – 122% Home Price Increase Since 2011
- 2010: $277,388
- 2011: $263,507
- 2012: $257,781
- 2013: $279,407
- 2014: $296,327
- 2015: $315,585
- 2016: $353,650
- 2017: $381,637
- 2018: $422,056
- 2019: $435,890
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $507,699
- 2022: $607,103
- 2023: $588,319
- 2024: $603,186
- 2025: $584,275
Waianae’s home values more than doubled between 2011 and 2025, increasing 122% over that span. After consistent gains through 2022, prices dipped slightly in recent years but remained far above early-2010s levels. The biggest surge came between 2020 and 2022, when buyers sought more space and affordability away from Honolulu.
Waianae – Affordable Living on Oahu’s Leeward Coast
Waianae, on Oahu’s western shore, remains one of the island’s more affordable areas. Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed pace, the town offers a cost-effective alternative to the metro core. Increased interest during the pandemic years drove values upward, reflecting broader demand for suburban and rural homes across the islands.
Despite some volatility in recent years, Waianae still provides significant value relative to other Oahu communities. With public beach parks, hiking trails, and a strong sense of local identity, it’s a compelling choice for buyers seeking a quieter lifestyle within reach of city amenities.
17. Papaikou – 141% Home Price Increase Since 2011
- 2010: $293,296
- 2011: $242,208
- 2012: $253,875
- 2013: $277,934
- 2014: $309,604
- 2015: $330,689
- 2016: $358,535
- 2017: $364,825
- 2018: $368,827
- 2019: $387,410
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $468,916
- 2022: $570,697
- 2023: $589,101
- 2024: $586,070
- 2025: $583,974
Papaikou’s home prices grew 141% between 2011 and 2025, rising from $242,208 to $583,974. The largest increases occurred between 2020 and 2022. Though values have flattened since, the long-term upward trend highlights growing interest in Hawaii’s smaller communities.
Papaikou – Plantation Past, Scenic Present
This Big Island town, just a few miles from Hilo, blends lush scenery with quiet residential life. Papaikou’s rich plantation history is reflected in its architecture and layout, but today it’s better known for ocean views and rainforest proximity. It remains a popular choice for buyers priced out of more urban markets.
Limited development and natural beauty have helped stabilize home prices. Easy access to Hilo’s amenities combined with a peaceful, rural feel has made Papaikou increasingly attractive, especially to remote workers and retirees.
16. Papaaloa – 45% Home Price Increase Since 2019
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: N/A
- 2019: $401,771
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $461,657
- 2022: $574,024
- 2023: $574,681
- 2024: $571,693
- 2025: $582,240
Papaaloa’s home values climbed 45% from 2019 to 2025. A dramatic rise occurred between 2020 and 2022, followed by several years of stability. Prices ended 2025 just above $582K, reflecting consistent demand despite the town’s small size and limited housing stock.
Papaaloa – A Forested Escape on the Hamakua Coast
Set along Hawaii’s Hamakua Coast, Papaaloa offers sweeping ocean views, dense greenery, and a low-key lifestyle. The town is remote and residential, with few commercial centers, which appeals to buyers seeking privacy and nature over convenience.
As more people have moved into rural areas, prices in places like Papaaloa have ticked up. Still, the town remains relatively affordable compared to other coastal regions in the state. Its appeal lies in the quiet, elevated setting and access to scenic drives and waterfalls.
15. Ookala – 61% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $349,138
- 2019: $365,448
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $436,952
- 2022: $558,274
- 2023: $559,654
- 2024: $558,849
- 2025: $560,824
Ookala’s prices rose 61% from 2018 to 2025. Like many Hawaii towns, it saw a major upswing in the early 2020s, then plateaued. Recent years show minimal changes, with values hovering just above $560K.
Ookala – Pastoral Setting, Rising Demand
Located on the northern edge of Hawaii Island, Ookala is a sleepy village with rolling hills and ocean views. Formerly a sugar town, it now caters to homeowners looking for space, affordability, and distance from tourist hubs. It’s also conveniently located between Hilo and Waimea.
The town’s low density and rural charm have become selling points, especially during the post-2020 housing shift. While amenities are limited, the surrounding natural beauty and slower pace have drawn a steady trickle of new buyers.
14. Hilo – 79% Home Price Increase Since 2015
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: $300,850
- 2016: $320,320
- 2017: $330,505
- 2018: $345,009
- 2019: $355,459
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $413,108
- 2022: $498,389
- 2023: $520,125
- 2024: $527,682
- 2025: $537,663
Hilo’s home prices rose steadily from $300,850 in 2015 to $537,663 in 2025—a 79% increase. Unlike many other towns, the growth here has been consistent, even during years of market cooling elsewhere.
Hilo – Big Island’s Cultural and Economic Center
Maplemoths, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
As the largest town on Hawaii Island, Hilo balances affordability with amenities. It’s home to the University of Hawaii at Hilo, local government, and a busy port. Its real estate market has remained more stable than many other parts of the state.
With frequent rain, a strong local culture, and historic architecture, Hilo feels different from Hawaii’s resort towns. The steady appreciation in home values reflects both local demand and a growing reputation for livability, especially among long-term residents.
13. Pepeekeo – 53% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $345,885
- 2019: $358,167
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $423,836
- 2022: $519,158
- 2023: $551,343
- 2024: $534,507
- 2025: $529,962
Pepeekeo’s home prices climbed 53% from 2018 to 2025, rising from $345,885 to $529,962. Growth was strongest between 2020 and 2022, followed by some volatility in recent years as prices dipped slightly from their 2023 high.
Pepeekeo – Historic Sugar Roots and Ocean Views
Situated along the Hamakua Coast just north of Hilo, Pepeekeo is a small town with expansive views and a tranquil, rural setting. Once part of a major sugar plantation operation, it now features a mix of older homes and newer construction, often on larger lots with ocean vistas.
The town’s quiet character, proximity to scenic drives and waterfalls, and relatively low housing density have helped fuel demand in recent years. While values have dipped slightly from peak levels, they remain well above pre-2020 prices, reflecting a sustained interest in affordable coastal living.
12. Keaau – 95% Home Price Increase Since 2015
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: $237,611
- 2016: $253,298
- 2017: $272,016
- 2018: $289,731
- 2019: $296,863
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $353,190
- 2022: $450,308
- 2023: $461,245
- 2024: $465,080
- 2025: $463,394
Keaau’s home prices surged from $237,611 in 2015 to $463,394 in 2025—a 95% increase. Most of the appreciation occurred from 2020 through 2022, with more modest gains in the years since.
Keaau – Growing Gateway to East Hawaii
Just south of Hilo, Keaau is one of the Big Island’s fastest-growing residential areas. The town offers easy access to both urban services and agricultural land, and its master-planned communities have made it a popular choice for families and retirees alike.
With new construction and infrastructure development in recent years, Keaau has transformed from a quiet farming area to a sought-after suburb. Prices have risen accordingly, though they still remain below Hilo’s averages, making Keaau an appealing mid-point between affordability and convenience.
11. Paauilo – 54% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $292,426
- 2019: $301,039
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $364,947
- 2022: $447,619
- 2023: $459,339
- 2024: $463,673
- 2025: $451,120
Home prices in Paauilo increased by 54% between 2018 and 2025, reaching $451,120 this year. Prices peaked in 2024 before slipping slightly, reflecting a minor correction after years of strong growth.
Paauilo – Small Town with Sweeping Views
Located on the Hamakua Coast, Paauilo offers broad pastoral views, cool breezes, and a quiet lifestyle. This former plantation town remains sparsely populated, with homes scattered across farmland and elevated lots overlooking the ocean.
Its appeal lies in the combination of tranquility and beauty. Though inventory is limited, demand has increased as buyers seek alternatives to more expensive or congested areas. The recent dip in prices doesn’t undermine its long-term trend of appreciation.
10. Hoolehua – 69% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $258,947
- 2019: $280,142
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $389,259
- 2022: $478,831
- 2023: $472,070
- 2024: $492,665
- 2025: $436,540
Hoolehua experienced a 69% rise in home values between 2018 and 2025. After peaking in 2022, prices fluctuated and fell noticeably in 2025, landing at $436,540—still far above earlier years.
Hoolehua – Central Molokai Affordability
Located in central Molokai, Hoolehua offers rural charm and proximity to the island’s airport. Its real estate market is smaller and more volatile than most, with price swings often tied to just a few transactions. Still, the town has seen steady interest from buyers drawn to Molokai’s unspoiled landscapes and laid-back atmosphere.
Although prices dipped in 2025, the overall trend remains positive over the past decade. Hoolehua remains one of the least expensive places to buy property in Hawaii, making it attractive for off-grid living and those looking for true isolation from the bustle of tourism.
9. Kaunakakai – 73% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: $244,253
- 2011: $243,205
- 2012: $208,384
- 2013: $218,250
- 2014: $251,556
- 2015: $256,346
- 2016: $265,674
- 2017: $283,622
- 2018: $285,739
- 2019: $293,990
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $365,852
- 2022: $403,762
- 2023: $427,280
- 2024: $436,941
- 2025: $419,937
Kaunakakai’s home prices grew 73% from 2012 to 2025, despite recent softening. After hitting a high in 2024, prices declined in 2025, likely due to limited demand and macroeconomic headwinds.
Kaunakakai – Molokai’s Main Town Holds Its Value
Kaunakakai is Molokai’s largest town and commercial center, offering local markets, schools, and harbor access. Despite its central role on the island, it has retained its small-town charm and affordability. Real estate tends to be more affordable here than anywhere else on the neighboring islands.
The town’s home values have generally increased over the past decade, with ups and downs shaped by its niche market. As Molokai stays off the radar of most tourists and developers, Kaunakakai provides rare affordability for those looking to live in Hawaii without the high price tag.
8. Naalehu – 77% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $234,319
- 2017: $243,637
- 2018: $257,083
- 2019: $261,410
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $320,433
- 2022: $400,972
- 2023: $408,271
- 2024: $413,145
- 2025: $414,975
Naalehu’s home values increased 77% between 2016 and 2025, rising from $234,319 to $414,975. Prices saw their most rapid gains between 2020 and 2022, then stabilized with only minor increases through 2025.
Naalehu – America’s Southernmost Town with Small-Town Appeal
Located at the southern tip of the Big Island, Naalehu is the southernmost town in the United States. Its remote location and strong agricultural heritage give it a distinctly quiet, old-Hawaii feel. With a low cost of living relative to other areas, it’s become a refuge for budget-conscious buyers.
Though Naalehu is far from the island’s urban centers, its charm lies in its simplicity—small bakeries, weekend markets, and unspoiled scenery define daily life here. Home prices have appreciated but remain among the lowest in the state, reinforcing its appeal for those seeking seclusion and affordability.
7. Volcano – 46% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: $333,093
- 2011: $260,687
- 2012: $168,741
- 2013: $160,833
- 2014: $189,917
- 2015: $204,968
- 2016: $228,799
- 2017: $244,283
- 2018: $260,293
- 2019: $265,243
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $308,267
- 2022: $378,731
- 2023: $393,629
- 2024: $392,309
- 2025: $393,731
Volcano saw a 46% increase in home prices between 2012 and 2025. Despite some turbulence earlier in the decade, values have risen steadily since 2019, driven by increased interest in remote, high-elevation properties.
Volcano – A Cool Retreat at the Edge of a Crater
Volcano is best known for its proximity to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, offering a cool, forested environment vastly different from coastal communities. Its elevation and occasional volcanic activity may deter some buyers, but others are drawn to the area’s peaceful charm and unique character.
The town appeals to artists, retirees, and off-grid enthusiasts. Home prices have seen steady appreciation as interest in alternative living spaces has grown. Volcano’s distinct setting and cooler climate continue to offer a compelling, affordable alternative to more developed areas.
6. Kurtistown – 53% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $254,780
- 2019: $255,046
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $313,345
- 2022: $396,405
- 2023: $406,201
- 2024: $397,910
- 2025: $390,485
Kurtistown home prices rose from $254,780 in 2018 to $390,485 in 2025—an increase of 53%. The sharpest increases came between 2020 and 2022, with minor corrections since then.
Kurtistown – Lush Forests and Rural Vibes
Set in the Puna District on the Big Island, Kurtistown is a small community with a tropical climate, towering trees, and a mix of agricultural lots and residential enclaves. It remains a relatively affordable area compared to nearby towns like Keaau and Hilo.
Growth in Kurtistown has been steady, but modest, driven by buyers looking for space and affordability. While prices have slightly declined since 2023, the area still offers value, especially for those seeking a laid-back, natural setting away from tourist centers.
5. Mountain View – 90% Home Price Increase Since 2015
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: $176,443
- 2016: $198,892
- 2017: $211,303
- 2018: $221,888
- 2019: $234,139
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $276,700
- 2022: $337,979
- 2023: $343,380
- 2024: $337,237
- 2025: $335,342
Mountain View’s home prices climbed 90% from $176,443 in 2015 to $335,342 in 2025. Prices peaked in 2023 and have slightly declined since, but remain well above pre-pandemic levels.
Mountain View – Forested Lots and Off-Grid Living
Located in the rainforest inland from Hilo, Mountain View is known for its affordability, large lots, and alternative living options. Many homes here are off-grid or partially self-sufficient, making it a magnet for homesteaders and those seeking independence.
As buyers have spread out across the Big Island, Mountain View has seen increasing demand, particularly from remote workers and mainland transplants. While its infrastructure is limited, the town remains one of the most budget-friendly places to own property in Hawaii.
4. Maunaloa – 16% Home Price Increase Since 2018
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- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $282,396
- 2019: $282,906
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $295,155
- 2022: $316,136
- 2023: $353,715
- 2024: $342,240
- 2025: $326,624
Maunaloa’s home values grew just 16% from 2018 to 2025, one of the lowest increases in this list. Prices peaked in 2023 at $353,715, then declined steadily to $326,624 in 2025—indicating a cooling market possibly impacted by limited demand or lack of infrastructure investment.
Maunaloa – Western Molokai’s Quiet Frontier
Located on the sparsely populated west end of Molokai, Maunaloa offers unmatched quiet and remoteness. Once part of a planned resort development, the town still has remnants of shuttered commercial buildings, adding a surreal edge to its rural charm. With no major growth drivers nearby, prices here remain among the lowest in the state.
Though small, Maunaloa offers wide-open skies, beautiful coastal drives, and a close-knit community. For buyers prioritizing solitude, it represents a rare chance to own Hawaii real estate at a fraction of the cost elsewhere—though potential owners must be prepared for extremely limited services and amenities.
3. Pahoa – 77% Home Price Increase Since 2015
- 2010: N/A
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- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: $161,025
- 2016: $161,825
- 2017: $180,114
- 2018: $198,160
- 2019: $200,799
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $230,436
- 2022: $290,837
- 2023: $297,932
- 2024: $291,330
- 2025: $285,648
Pahoa’s home prices have grown 77% since 2015, rising from $161,025 to $285,648. After reaching a high in 2023, the market saw minor pullbacks, likely due to natural hazard concerns and infrastructure limitations.
Pahoa – Creative Spirit and Lava Zone Living
Pahoa, in the Puna District on the Big Island, is perhaps Hawaii’s most eclectic town. Known for its vibrant arts community, off-grid homes, and funky downtown, it attracts both creative types and cost-conscious buyers. Its location near active lava zones has kept prices lower than elsewhere—but also adds risk and complexity to ownership.
Despite those challenges, interest in Pahoa remains strong thanks to its affordability and alternative lifestyle options. The post-2020 housing rush sent prices soaring, and while values have eased slightly, the town still offers some of the lowest costs in the state.
2. Pahala – 58% Home Price Increase Since 2018
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- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $180,185
- 2019: $179,178
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $218,415
- 2022: $276,239
- 2023: $285,449
- 2024: $292,052
- 2025: $284,123
Pahala’s home values rose 58% from 2018 to 2025. The biggest jumps came between 2020 and 2022, though prices have since stabilized, closing 2025 at $284,123.
Pahala – A Plantation Town Frozen in Time
Yoshi Canopus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Pahala is a quiet village in the Kaʻū District on the Big Island, surrounded by former sugar cane fields and volcanic slopes. With just a few thousand residents, the town feels unchanged from decades past. That timelessness is part of its appeal—and part of why home prices remain low.
While the area lacks modern infrastructure and amenities, it offers clean air, spacious land, and strong community ties. The recent price increases reflect rising interest in rural Hawaii, but even so, Pahala is still one of the least expensive places to buy a home statewide.
1. Ocean View – 51% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: $270,740
- 2011: $182,820
- 2012: $118,827
- 2013: $119,470
- 2014: $124,530
- 2015: $127,543
- 2016: $142,778
- 2017: $158,838
- 2018: $171,718
- 2019: $173,715
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $219,621
- 2022: $279,197
- 2023: $284,714
- 2024: $279,130
- 2025: $275,310
Ocean View tops the list as Hawaii’s most affordable town in 2025, with a home value of $275,310. Though prices have risen 51% since 2012, the town remains far below statewide averages. Growth was strongest from 2020 to 2022, followed by slight declines.
Ocean View – Affordable Frontier on the Big Island
Ocean View spans a vast swath of land in the Kaʻū District, offering expansive lots and sweeping views of the Pacific. It’s a favorite for off-grid living, and most homes rely on catchment water and solar power. This independence keeps costs low—but also requires buyers to be self-reliant.
Despite modest infrastructure, Ocean View continues to draw homesteaders, retirees, and bargain hunters. Its mix of freedom, space, and affordability makes it a standout for those who prioritize cost and are ready to live outside the grid. In 2025, it remains the cheapest town in Hawaii by average home value.
