Kauai County, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
73,731
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,668/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
30,471
0.3% year-over-year change

Kauai County population

How many people live in Kauai County

Kauai County is home to 73,731 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Kauai County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
73,731
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
36,550
Female
50.4%
37,181
Value Percent YoY change
Male 36,550 49.6% -0.4%
Female 37,181 50.4% 0.7%
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 Kauai County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
22.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,027 17.7% -0.8%
15 to 24 7,309 9.9% -1.2%
25 to 44 18,260 24.8% 0.5%
45 to 64 18,605 25.2% -1.5%
Over 65 16,530 22.4% 3.2%
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 Kauai County, 83.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 30.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 9.9% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 27.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
83.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.4%
Non-citizens
6.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 61,391 83.3% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 7,673 10.4% 6.1%
Non-citizens 4,667 6.3% -5.7%
Racial breakdown
White
29.6%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
30.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
9.9%
Two or more races
27.2%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 21,863 29.6%
Black or African American 639 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 146 0.2%
Asian 22,560 30.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7,288 9.9%
Two or more races 20,053 27.2%
Other 1,182 1.6%

Households in Kauai County

A peek inside Kauai County households

Kauai County has 23,632 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.8% are families, while the remaining 31.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,632
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,383
Family households
16,249
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,383 31.2% 5.2%
Family households 16,249 68.8% -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 Kauai County

The housing landscape of Kauai County

Kauai County's housing consists of 30,471 units, with 69.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.2% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
30,471
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 21,110 69.3%
1 unit, attached 1,891 6.2%
2 units 1,128 3.7%
3 or 4 units 982 3.2%
5 to 9 units 1,048 3.4%
10 to 19 units 1,030 3.4%
20 to 49 units 1,073 3.5%
50 or more units 2,138 7%
Mobile home 71 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
299
73.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Kauai County

In Kauai County, the median construction year is 1983. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,216 4% -4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 921 3% -2.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,823 6% -4.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,186 7.2% 9.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,906 22.7% -2.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 6,351 20.8% 2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,943 16.2% -3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,893 12.8% 0.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,933 6.3% 4.9%
Built in 2020 or later 299 1% 73.8%
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.

Kauai County occupancy rates

Out of the 23,632 occupied housing units in Kauai County, 68.6% are owner-occupied, while 31.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,632
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,422
Owner occupied
16,210
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,422 31.4% -3.3%
Owner occupied 16,210 68.6% 2.7%
Unoccupied housing units
22.4%
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.

Kauai County housing costs

Housing costs in Kauai County come to a median of $1,848 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,870.

Median housing costs per month
$1,848/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 Kauai County
$1,870/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 Kauai County

Kauai County education at a glance

About 35.1% of the population in Kauai County went to high school, while 22.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 18.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,650 2.8% -13.7%
High school diploma 20,408 35.1% -0.7%
College diploma 13,061 22.5% 4.6%
Associate degree 6,562 11.3% -1.2%
Bachelor's degree 10,881 18.7% -3.3%
Graduate degree 5,533 9.5% 9.9%
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 Kauai County

How much people earn in Kauai County

The average annual household income in Kauai County was $126,466 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,668, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Kauai County
$126,466/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Kauai County
$97,668/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Kauai County income by age

In Kauai County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $107,320. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $110,874 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,417, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $74,413 in earnings. Overall, 90.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,417 N/A
25 - 44 $107,320 3.6%
45 - 64 $110,874 1.2%
Over 65 $74,413 -0.4%
Above poverty level
65,756
Below poverty level
6,585
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 65,756 90.9% -0.1%
Below poverty level 6,585 9.1% 3.6%

Employment in Kauai County

Workforce and job types in Kauai County

The job market in Kauai County is powered by 36,757 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.8% run their own businesses, 60.8% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
36,757
2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
30,062
Blue collar
6,695
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 30,062 81.8% 5.1%
Blue collar 6,695 18.2% -7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
14.8%
Private companies
60.8%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,432 14.8% 0.5%
Private companies 22,333 60.8% 3.8%
Governmental workers 6,524 17.8% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 2,468 6.7% 0.6%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Kauai County stands at 3.8%, 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 Kauai County

How people get around in Kauai County

In Kauai County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
3.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 30,061 86.4% 0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 474 1.4% 41.9%
Motorcycle 60 0.2% 22.4%
Bicycle 69 0.2% 9.5%
Walk 868 2.5% -3.3%
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 Kauai County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
96703 3,366 822 $98,214 $101,976
96705 2,522 701 $118,438 $133,919
96714 1,592 487 $132,448 $143,762
96716 2,650 776 $105,000 $118,839
96722 2,377 1,032 $100,938 $153,432
96741 6,183 2,209 $110,873 $148,656
96746 19,329 6,669 $88,802 $126,409
96747 1,012 268 $95,625 $125,346
96752 3,809 1,094 $90,174 $100,802

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FAQs about Kauai County demographics 

What is the total population of Kauai County?

Kauai County has a total population of 73,731 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Kauai County?

The gender ratio in Kauai County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (36,550 residents)
  • 50.4% females (37,181 residents)

What is the median age in Kauai County?

The median age in Kauai County is 43.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Kauai County?

The age distribution in Kauai County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (13,027 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (7,309 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (18,260 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (18,605 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.4% (16,530 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Kauai County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Kauai County is as follows:
  • White: 29.6% (21,863 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (639 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (146 residents)
  • Asian: 30.6% (22,560 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 9.9% (7,288 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.2% (20,053 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (1,182 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 83.3% of the population in Kauai County.

How many housing units are there in Kauai County?

There are 30,471 housing units in Kauai County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Kauai County has a total of 23,632 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Kauai County?

Kauai County has a median household income of $97,668, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Kauai County?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Kauai County, with a workforce of 36,757 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (30,062 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (6,695 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.8% (5,432 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.8% (22,333 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (6,524 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.7% (2,468 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