Makawao, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,353
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$96,444/yr
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,833
2.7% year-over-year change

Makawao population

How many people live in Makawao

Makawao is home to 7,353 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.2% of Makawao locals are male, and 54.8% are female.

Total population
7,353
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.2%
3,325
Female
54.8%
4,028
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,325 45.2% -3.9%
Female 4,028 54.8% 5.9%
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 Makawao is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 8.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
8.5%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,484 20.2% 3.4%
15 to 24 624 8.5% -11.4%
25 to 44 1,812 24.6% 10.8%
45 to 64 1,917 26.1% -4.7%
Over 65 1,516 20.6% 2.7%
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 Makawao, 92.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 14.8% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 34.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.4%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,771 92.1% 1.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 468 6.4% 3.3%
Non-citizens 114 1.6% -18.0%
Racial breakdown
White
28.6%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
18.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
14.8%
Two or more races
34.9%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 2,099 28.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14 0.2%
Asian 1,343 18.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,087 14.8%
Two or more races 2,566 34.9%
Other 244 3.3%

Households in Makawao

A peek inside Makawao households

Makawao has 2,641 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.5% are families, while the remaining 26.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,641
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
699
Family households
1,942
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 699 26.5% -5.5%
Family households 1,942 73.5% 4.1%
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 Makawao

The housing landscape of Makawao

Makawao's housing consists of 2,833 units, with 85.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.9% 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
2,833
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,410 85.1%
1 unit, attached 223 7.9%
2 units 8 0.3%
3 or 4 units 30 1.1%
5 to 9 units 11 0.4%
10 to 19 units 86 3%
20 to 49 units 37 1.3%
50 or more units 22 0.8%
Mobile home 6 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Makawao

In Makawao, the median construction year is 1982. About 2.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 79 2.8% 11.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 106 3.7% 0.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 77 2.7% 13.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 299 10.6% -14.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 701 24.7% 15.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 808 28.5% 2.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 493 17.4% -0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 123 4.3% -30.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 147 5.2% 47.0%
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.

Makawao occupancy rates

Out of the 2,641 occupied housing units in Makawao, 67.1% are owner-occupied, while 32.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,641
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
868
Owner occupied
1,773
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 868 32.9% -4.5%
Owner occupied 1,773 67.1% 4.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
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.

Makawao housing costs

Housing costs in Makawao come to a median of $1,920 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,908.

Median housing costs per month
$1,920/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 Makawao
$1,908/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 Makawao

Makawao education at a glance

About 30.2% of the population in Makawao went to high school, while 31.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 17.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 84 1.5% -2.3%
High school diploma 1,693 30.2% -5.1%
College diploma 1,760 31.4% 13.5%
Associate degree 574 10.2% -3.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,004 17.9% -4.5%
Graduate degree 486 8.7% -6.2%
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 Makawao

How much people earn in Makawao

The average annual household income in Makawao was $125,884 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $96,444, reflecting a +0.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Makawao
$125,884/year
6.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Makawao
$96,444/year
0.3% year-over-year change

Makawao income by age

In Makawao, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $116,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $103,750 overall. Overall, 89.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $116,500 1.9%
45 - 64 $103,750 5.8%
Over 65 $74,556 -2.1%
Above poverty level
6,577
Below poverty level
747
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,577 89.8% 2.2%
Below poverty level 747 10.2% -2.4%

Employment in Makawao

Workforce and job types in Makawao

The job market in Makawao is powered by 3,340 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 22% run their own businesses, 59.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,340
1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
2,664
Blue collar
676
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,664 79.8% 0.8%
Blue collar 676 20.2% 6.3%
Employer type
Self employees
22%
Private companies
59.2%
Governmental workers
12.8%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 734 22% 22.7%
Private companies 1,977 59.2% -4.7%
Governmental workers 428 12.8% -6.5%
Not for profit companies 201 6% 34.0%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
3.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Makawao stands at 3.4%, 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 Makawao

How people get around in Makawao

Commuting methods vary: 84.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,670 84.2% 3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 9 0.3% 12.5%
Walk 67 2.1% -35.0%
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 Makawao by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
96768 18,569 6,425 $100,391 $134,023

Explore more communities

FAQs about Makawao demographics 

What is the total population of Makawao?

Makawao has a total population of 7,353 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Makawao?

The gender ratio in Makawao is as follows:
  • 45.2% males (3,325 residents)
  • 54.8% females (4,028 residents)

What is the median age in Makawao?

The median age in Makawao is 42.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Makawao?

The age distribution in Makawao is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (1,484 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.5% (624 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (1,812 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (1,917 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (1,516 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Makawao?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Makawao is as follows:
  • White: 28.6% (2,099 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (14 residents)
  • Asian: 18.3% (1,343 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 14.8% (1,087 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 34.9% (2,566 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (244 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.1% of the population in Makawao.

How many housing units are there in Makawao?

There are 2,833 housing units in Makawao, reflecting a +2.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Makawao has a total of 2,641 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Makawao?

Makawao has a median household income of $96,444, representing a +0.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Makawao, with a workforce of 3,340 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.8% (2,664 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.2% (676 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 22% (734 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.2% (1,977 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.8% (428 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (201 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