While Hawaii is often associated with paradise, luxury resorts, and a high cost of living, not all of its communities share equally in the state’s prosperity.
Economic hardship is a reality for some towns, and recent data highlights one place in particular: Makaha. For 2024, Makaha has been named the poorest town in Hawaii, based on key economic indicators such as median household income and poverty rate.
Economic Snapshot: Makaha
Makaha is a small town located on the western coast of Oahu. Despite its beautiful beaches and scenic views, the town faces significant economic challenges compared to other Hawaiian communities.
Key Statistics (2024):
Median Household Income: $57,235
This is the lowest median income of any town in Hawaii, well below the state average.
Poverty Rate: 24%
Nearly one in four Makaha residents live below the poverty line, the highest rate in the state.
Population: 10,042
Of these, approximately 2,408 residents are considered to be living in poverty.
Why Is Makaha So Poor?
Several factors contribute to Makaha’s economic struggles:
- Limited Job Opportunities: The local economy relies heavily on tourism and service-sector jobs, which often pay low wages and can be seasonal or unstable.
- High Cost of Living: Hawaii’s overall high cost of living—especially for housing and groceries—makes it difficult for residents with low incomes to get ahead.
- Geographic Isolation: Makaha’s location on Oahu’s leeward coast means fewer job opportunities and less access to economic resources compared to urban centers like Honolulu.
- Educational and Social Challenges: Lower educational attainment and limited access to social services can perpetuate cycles of poverty.
The Human Impact
For many Makaha families, these economic realities translate into daily struggles to afford basic necessities like food, housing, and healthcare. Community organizations and local government agencies work to provide assistance, but the need often outpaces available resources.
How Does Makaha Compare to the Rest of Hawaii?
While Hawaii as a whole has a relatively high median income compared to other states, the wealth is unevenly distributed. Towns like Makaha stand in stark contrast to affluent areas such as Honolulu or Kailua, highlighting the disparities that exist even in paradise.
Makaha’s designation as the poorest town in Hawaii serves as a reminder that beneath the state’s idyllic image, real economic challenges persist for many residents. Addressing these issues will require continued efforts from policymakers, community leaders, and residents alike to create more opportunities and support for those in need.
Sources:
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-hawaii/
- https://hiappleseed.org/blog/official-poverty-data-obscures-reality-in-hawaii
- https://uhero.hawaii.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/HawaiiHousingFactbook2025.pdf