Waialua, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,050
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$88,269/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,254
1.0% year-over-year change

Waialua population

How many people live in Waialua

Waialua is home to 3,050 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.2% of Waialua locals are male, and 52.8% are female.

Total population
3,050
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.2%
1,440
Female
52.8%
1,610
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,440 47.2% -5.1%
Female 1,610 52.8% 7.5%
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 Waialua is 49, with the population distributed as follows: about 7.7% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
49
Age breakdown
Under 15
7.7%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
26.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 234 7.7% -27.3%
15 to 24 331 10.8% 0.3%
25 to 44 837 27.4% 16.4%
45 to 64 850 27.9% -5.6%
Over 65 798 26.2% 7.3%
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 Waialua, 79.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 14.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 35.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
79.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
14.6%
Non-citizens
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,417 79.2% -2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 445 14.6% 32.4%
Non-citizens 188 6.2% -11.3%
Racial breakdown
White
24.4%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
31.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
5.3%
Two or more races
35.7%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 745 24.4%
Asian 970 31.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 163 5.3%
Two or more races 1,089 35.7%
Other 83 2.7%

Households in Waialua

A peek inside Waialua households

Waialua has 1,092 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.8% are families, while the remaining 34.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,092
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
373
Family households
719
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 373 34.2% 8.4%
Family households 719 65.8% -0.3%
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 Waialua

The housing landscape of Waialua

Waialua's housing consists of 1,254 units, with 75.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 17.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style.

Housing units
1,254
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 952 75.9%
1 unit, attached 224 17.9%
2 units 14 1.1%
3 or 4 units 20 1.6%
5 to 9 units 28 2.2%
20 to 49 units 8 0.6%
50 or more units 8 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
38
533.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waialua

In Waialua, the median construction year is 1965. About 9.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 118 9.4% 19.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 80 6.4% 1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 346 27.6% -0.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 182 14.5% -13.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 307 24.5% -4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 17 1.4% -32.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 27 2.2% 35.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 113 9% -0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 26 2.1% 23.8%
Built in 2020 or later 38 3% 533.3%
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.

Waialua occupancy rates

Out of the 1,092 occupied housing units in Waialua, 63.9% are owner-occupied, while 36.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,092
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
394
Owner occupied
698
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 394 36.1% -9.0%
Owner occupied 698 63.9% 10.4%
Unoccupied housing units
12.9%
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.

Waialua housing costs

Housing costs in Waialua come to a median of $1,969 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,678.

Median housing costs per month
$1,969/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 Waialua
$1,678/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 Waialua

Waialua education at a glance

About 40% of the population in Waialua went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 58 2.2% -33.3%
High school diploma 1,070 40% 27.5%
College diploma 592 22.1% -2.5%
Associate degree 243 9.1% -14.1%
Bachelor's degree 546 20.4% -0.6%
Graduate degree 166 6.2% 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 Waialua

How much people earn in Waialua

The average annual household income in Waialua was $115,349 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $88,269, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waialua
$115,349/year
7.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waialua
$88,269/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Waialua income by age

In Waialua, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $109,205. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $121,250 overall. Overall, 89.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $109,205 -16.6%
45 - 64 $121,250 4.0%
Over 65 $46,477 9.8%
Above poverty level
2,700
Below poverty level
302
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,700 89.9% 3.6%
Below poverty level 302 10.1% -12.2%

Employment in Waialua

Workforce and job types in Waialua

The job market in Waialua is powered by 1,658 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.5% run their own businesses, 60.4% are employed by private companies, and 17.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,658
7.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,209
Blue collar
449
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,209 72.9% 8.5%
Blue collar 449 27.1% 5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
12.5%
Private companies
60.4%
Governmental workers
17.4%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 207 12.5% -8.0%
Private companies 1,001 60.4% 17.1%
Governmental workers 288 17.4% -12.5%
Not for profit companies 162 9.8% 24.6%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
58.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waialua stands at 7.9%, 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 Waialua

How people get around in Waialua

In Waialua, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,357 83.8% 2.9%
Bus or trolleybus 92 5.7% 441.2%
Walk 25 1.5% -7.4%
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 Waialua by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
96791 6,377 2,337 $97,470 $128,346

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FAQs about Waialua demographics 

What is the total population of Waialua?

Waialua has a total population of 3,050 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 Waialua?

The gender ratio in Waialua is as follows:
  • 47.2% males (1,440 residents)
  • 52.8% females (1,610 residents)

What is the median age in Waialua?

The median age in Waialua is 49.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waialua?

The age distribution in Waialua is as follows:
  • Under 15: 7.7% (234 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (331 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (837 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (850 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.2% (798 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waialua?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waialua is as follows:
  • White: 24.4% (745 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 31.8% (970 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 5.3% (163 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 35.7% (1,089 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (83 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 79.2% of the population in Waialua.

How many housing units are there in Waialua?

There are 1,254 housing units in Waialua, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waialua has a total of 1,092 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waialua?

Waialua has a median household income of $88,269, 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 Waialua?

The employment rate is 92.1% in Waialua, with a workforce of 1,658 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.9% (1,209 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.1% (449 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.5% (207 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.4% (1,001 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.4% (288 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (162 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