Hilo, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
50,404
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$81,779/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,265
1.9% year-over-year change

Hilo population

How many people live in Hilo

Hilo is home to 50,404 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Hilo locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
50,404
4.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
24,057
Female
52.3%
26,347
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,057 47.7% 4.6%
Female 26,347 52.3% 4.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Hilo is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.5% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 23.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.5%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
23.6%
Over 65
22.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,334 16.5% 4.0%
15 to 24 6,195 12.3% 4.5%
25 to 44 12,526 24.8% 6.7%
45 to 64 11,898 23.6% 2.6%
Over 65 11,451 22.7% 4.6%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Hilo, 87.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 14.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 34.8% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 13.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 34.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.1%
Non-citizens
5.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 44,029 87.4% 2.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,587 7.1% 12.0%
Non-citizens 2,788 5.5% 24.4%
Racial breakdown
White
14.9%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
34.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
13.4%
Two or more races
34.7%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 7,518 14.9%
Black or African American 376 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 133 0.3%
Asian 17,522 34.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6,738 13.4%
Two or more races 17,497 34.7%
Other 620 1.2%

Households in Hilo

A peek inside Hilo households

Hilo has 17,750 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
17,750
3.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
6,563
Family households
11,187
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,563 37% 13.0%
Family households 11,187 63% -1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Hilo

The housing landscape of Hilo

Hilo's housing consists of 19,265 units, with 77.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,265
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,910 77.4%
1 unit, attached 421 2.2%
2 units 340 1.8%
3 or 4 units 505 2.6%
5 to 9 units 300 1.6%
10 to 19 units 549 2.8%
20 to 49 units 1,255 6.5%
50 or more units 915 4.8%
Mobile home 70 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
132
1,550.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hilo

In Hilo, the median construction year is 1978. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 997 5.2% -1.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,120 5.8% 13.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,330 6.9% 4.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,362 12.3% -7.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,580 23.8% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,363 17.5% 9.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,524 13.1% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,671 8.7% -10.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,186 6.2% 27.8%
Built in 2020 or later 132 0.7% 1,550.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Hilo occupancy rates

Out of the 17,750 occupied housing units in Hilo, 66.1% are owner-occupied, while 33.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
17,750
3.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,014
Owner occupied
11,736
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,014 33.9% 1.7%
Owner occupied 11,736 66.1% 4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Hilo housing costs

Housing costs in Hilo come to a median of $1,234 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,427.

Median housing costs per month
$1,234/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Hilo
$1,427/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Hilo

Hilo education at a glance

About 32.3% of the population in Hilo went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 13.8% earned an associate degree and 20.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 934 2.3% 7.5%
High school diploma 13,033 32.3% 7.4%
College diploma 7,780 19.3% -1.6%
Associate degree 5,582 13.8% 5.1%
Bachelor's degree 8,328 20.7% 8.0%
Graduate degree 4,643 11.5% 4.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Hilo

How much people earn in Hilo

The average annual household income in Hilo was $111,359 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $81,779, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hilo
$111,359/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hilo
$81,779/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Hilo income by age

In Hilo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,775. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $102,083 overall. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $84,775 19.3%
45 - 64 $102,083 0.4%
Over 65 $67,894 -4.4%
Above poverty level
41,635
Below poverty level
6,994
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 41,635 85.6% 3.6%
Below poverty level 6,994 14.4% 6.9%

Employment in Hilo

Workforce and job types in Hilo

The job market in Hilo is powered by 22,823 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.2% run their own businesses, 49.4% are employed by private companies, and 29% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,823
4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
18,892
Blue collar
3,931
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,892 82.8% 3.7%
Blue collar 3,931 17.2% 10.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.2%
Private companies
49.4%
Governmental workers
29%
Not for profit companies
9.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,788 12.2% 3.6%
Private companies 11,272 49.4% 3.6%
Governmental workers 6,612 29% 6.6%
Not for profit companies 2,151 9.4% 8.2%
Unemployment rate
6.9%
0.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hilo stands at 6.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Hilo

How people get around in Hilo

In Hilo, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
1.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 19,008 85.3% 4.0%
Taxicab 139 0.6% 321.2%
Bus or trolleybus 117 0.5% -26.9%
Subway or elevated 92 0.4% N/A
Bicycle 149 0.7% 8.0%
Walk 521 2.3% -12.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Hilo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
96720 52,979 18,520 $80,938 $111,033

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FAQs about Hilo demographics 

What is the total population of Hilo?

Hilo has a total population of 50,404 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +4.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hilo?

The gender ratio in Hilo is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (24,057 residents)
  • 52.3% females (26,347 residents)

What is the median age in Hilo?

The median age in Hilo is 42.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Hilo?

The age distribution in Hilo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.5% (8,334 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (6,195 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (12,526 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.6% (11,898 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.7% (11,451 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hilo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hilo is as follows:
  • White: 14.9% (7,518 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (376 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (133 residents)
  • Asian: 34.8% (17,522 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 13.4% (6,738 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 34.7% (17,497 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (620 residents)

What percentage of the population in Hilo are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.4% of the population in Hilo.

How many housing units are there in Hilo?

There are 19,265 housing units in Hilo, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Hilo and what is the average household size?

Hilo has a total of 17,750 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hilo?

Hilo has a median household income of $81,779, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Hilo?

The employment rate is 93.1% in Hilo, with a workforce of 22,823 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.8% (18,892 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.2% (3,931 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.2% (2,788 residents)
  • Private companies: 49.4% (11,272 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29% (6,612 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.4% (2,151 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025