Waimea Town, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
11,126
-9.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$94,702/yr
7.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,578
-3.1% year-over-year change

Waimea population

How many people live in Waimea

Waimea is home to 11,126 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.2% of Waimea locals are male, and 52.8% are female.

Total population
11,126
-9.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.2%
5,253
Female
52.8%
5,873
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,253 47.2% -13.3%
Female 5,873 52.8% -6.0%
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 Waimea is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
44
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
9%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
24.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,963 17.6% -13.4%
15 to 24 1,005 9% -11.9%
25 to 44 2,798 25.2% -11.1%
45 to 64 2,616 23.5% -14.2%
Over 65 2,744 24.7% 1.4%
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 Waimea, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 43.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.4%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,880 88.8% -5.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 824 7.4% -15.4%
Non-citizens 422 3.8% -50.7%
Racial breakdown
White
23%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
19.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
13.2%
Two or more races
43.6%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 2,554 23%
Black or African American 3 0%
Asian 2,166 19.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1,474 13.2%
Two or more races 4,848 43.6%
Other 81 0.7%

Households in Waimea

A peek inside Waimea households

Waimea has 4,185 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,185
-5.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,481
Family households
2,704
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,481 35.4% -4.1%
Family households 2,704 64.6% -5.9%
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 Waimea

The housing landscape of Waimea

Waimea's housing consists of 4,578 units, with 81.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.4% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,578
-3.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,722 81.3%
1 unit, attached 200 4.4%
2 units 312 6.8%
3 or 4 units 41 0.9%
5 to 9 units 81 1.8%
10 to 19 units 108 2.4%
20 to 49 units 54 1.2%
Mobile home 42 0.9%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 18 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
103
255.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waimea

In Waimea, the median construction year is 1983. About 7.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 348 7.6% 49.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22 0.5% -63.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 222 4.8% 15.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 220 4.8% 1.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 790 17.3% -22.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 584 12.8% -13.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 987 21.6% 0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 953 20.8% -2.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 349 7.6% 2.4%
Built in 2020 or later 103 2.2% 255.2%
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.

Waimea occupancy rates

Out of the 4,185 occupied housing units in Waimea, 69.2% are owner-occupied, while 30.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,185
-5.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,291
Owner occupied
2,894
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,291 30.8% -8.8%
Owner occupied 2,894 69.2% -3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Waimea housing costs

Housing costs in Waimea come to a median of $1,693 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,740.

Median housing costs per month
$1,693/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 Waimea
$1,740/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 Waimea

Waimea education at a glance

About 32.3% of the population in Waimea went to high school, while 16.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 20.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 239 2.8% -4.0%
High school diploma 2,787 32.3% -14.6%
College diploma 1,429 16.6% -1.1%
Associate degree 916 10.6% -15.1%
Bachelor's degree 1,740 20.2% -12.1%
Graduate degree 1,515 17.6% 8.4%
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 Waimea

How much people earn in Waimea

The average annual household income in Waimea was $106,612 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $94,702, reflecting a +7.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waimea
$106,612/year
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waimea
$94,702/year
7.3% year-over-year change

Waimea income by age

In Waimea, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,183. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $118,322 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $2,499, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $75,688 in earnings. Overall, 87.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $2,499 0.0%
25 - 44 $90,183 0.4%
45 - 64 $118,322 6.1%
Over 65 $75,688 -0.9%
Above poverty level
9,435
Below poverty level
1,295
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,435 87.9% -10.1%
Below poverty level 1,295 12.1% -9.1%

Average renter income in Waimea

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waimea, their median household income was $104,185 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$104,185
Rent-to-income ratio
20%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Waimea

Workforce and job types in Waimea

The job market in Waimea is powered by 5,465 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, 21.5% run their own businesses, 52.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,465
-9.3% year-over-year change
White collar
4,470
Blue collar
995
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,470 81.8% -5.0%
Blue collar 995 18.2% -24.8%
Employer type
Self employees
21.5%
Private companies
52.4%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,175 21.5% -11.1%
Private companies 2,866 52.4% -9.9%
Governmental workers 852 15.6% 0.5%
Not for profit companies 572 10.5% -15.8%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
0.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waimea stands at 4.8%, 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 Waimea

How people get around in Waimea

Commuting methods vary: 96.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% 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 4,342 96.1% -10.6%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.4% -80.0%
Bicycle 10 0.2% -16.7%
Walk 147 3.2% -23.8%
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.

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FAQs about Waimea demographics 

What is the total population of Waimea?

Waimea has a total population of 11,126 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 -9.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waimea?

The gender ratio in Waimea is as follows:
  • 47.2% males (5,253 residents)
  • 52.8% females (5,873 residents)

What is the median age in Waimea?

The median age in Waimea is 44.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waimea?

The age distribution in Waimea is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (1,963 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9% (1,005 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (2,798 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (2,616 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.7% (2,744 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waimea?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waimea is as follows:
  • White: 23% (2,554 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (3 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% ( residents)
  • Asian: 19.5% (2,166 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 13.2% (1,474 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 43.6% (4,848 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (81 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Waimea.

How many housing units are there in Waimea?

There are 4,578 housing units in Waimea, reflecting a -3.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waimea has a total of 4,185 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waimea?

Waimea has a median household income of $94,702, representing a +7.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Waimea, with a workforce of 5,465 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.8% (4,470 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.2% (995 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 21.5% (1,175 residents)
  • Private companies: 52.4% (2,866 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (852 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (572 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