Waipahu, HI demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
40,482
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$103,895/yr
5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,800
3.3% year-over-year change

Waipahu population

How many people live in Waipahu

Waipahu is home to 40,482 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Waipahu locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
40,482
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
19,386
Female
52.1%
21,096
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,386 47.9% 0.9%
Female 21,096 52.1% 2.1%
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 Waipahu is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
21.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,801 16.8% -1.0%
15 to 24 4,935 12.2% -0.3%
25 to 44 10,412 25.7% 1.6%
45 to 64 9,700 24% 1.8%
Over 65 8,634 21.3% 4.2%
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 Waipahu, 52.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 30.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 16.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 2.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.8% are African American and 70.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 13.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
52.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
30.6%
Non-citizens
16.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,251 52.5% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 12,400 30.6% 5.1%
Non-citizens 6,831 16.9% 1.8%
Racial breakdown
White
2.8%
Black or African American
0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
70.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
11.8%
Two or more races
13.6%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 1,125 2.8%
Black or African American 314 0.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 19 0%
Asian 28,389 70.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4,756 11.8%
Two or more races 5,511 13.6%
Other 368 0.9%

Households in Waipahu

A peek inside Waipahu households

Waipahu has 9,282 households, with an average of 4 members in each. Of these, 79.7% are families, while the remaining 20.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,282
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
4
Non-family households
1,884
Family households
7,398
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,884 20.3% 8.5%
Family households 7,398 79.7% 2.1%
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 Waipahu

The housing landscape of Waipahu

Waipahu's housing consists of 9,800 units, with 48.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.7% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,800
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,711 48.1%
1 unit, attached 1,340 13.7%
2 units 166 1.7%
3 or 4 units 552 5.6%
5 to 9 units 942 9.6%
10 to 19 units 782 8%
20 to 49 units 437 4.5%
50 or more units 812 8.3%
Mobile home 58 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
185
125.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waipahu

In Waipahu, the median construction year is 1971. About 0.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 51 0.5% -19.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 195 2% 47.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 782 8% -14.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,633 37.1% 4.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,333 23.8% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 751 7.7% -10.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 559 5.7% 21.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,015 10.4% 13.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 296 3% 59.1%
Built in 2020 or later 185 1.9% 125.6%
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.

Waipahu occupancy rates

Out of the 9,282 occupied housing units in Waipahu, 59.7% are owner-occupied, while 40.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,282
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,744
Owner occupied
5,538
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,744 40.3% 2.9%
Owner occupied 5,538 59.7% 3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
5.3%
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.

Waipahu housing costs

Housing costs in Waipahu come to a median of $1,817 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,658.

Median housing costs per month
$1,817/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 Waipahu
$1,658/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 Waipahu

Waipahu education at a glance

About 41.5% of the population in Waipahu went to high school, while 22.2% pursued college studies. Another 10.8% earned an associate degree and 14.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,170 6.8% -3.7%
High school diploma 13,347 41.5% -2.5%
College diploma 7,125 22.2% 2.4%
Associate degree 3,460 10.8% 11.9%
Bachelor's degree 4,722 14.7% 14.1%
Graduate degree 1,306 4.1% 0.2%
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 Waipahu

How much people earn in Waipahu

The average annual household income in Waipahu was $130,160 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $103,895, reflecting a +5.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waipahu
$130,160/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waipahu
$103,895/year
5.3% year-over-year change

Waipahu income by age

In Waipahu, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,545. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $130,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,417, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $95,107 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,417 N/A
25 - 44 $87,545 -3.0%
45 - 64 $130,000 12.7%
Over 65 $95,107 18.4%
Above poverty level
34,748
Below poverty level
4,661
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 34,748 88.2% 1.2%
Below poverty level 4,661 11.8% 6.7%

Employment in Waipahu

Workforce and job types in Waipahu

The job market in Waipahu is powered by 19,529 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 67.5% are employed by private companies, and 17.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,529
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
15,139
Blue collar
4,390
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,139 77.5% 5.9%
Blue collar 4,390 22.5% -2.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
67.5%
Governmental workers
17.8%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,271 6.5% 5.7%
Private companies 13,179 67.5% 3.2%
Governmental workers 3,482 17.8% 13.4%
Not for profit companies 1,597 8.2% -9.0%
Unemployment rate
4.1%
1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waipahu stands at 4.1%, 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 Waipahu

How people get around in Waipahu

In Waipahu, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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
1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 14,463 74.1% 0.8%
Taxicab 43 0.2% -2.3%
Bus or trolleybus 2,696 13.8% 17.6%
Motorcycle 10 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 6 0% N/A
Walk 564 2.9% 1.6%
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 Waipahu by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
96797 72,435 20,564 $114,654 $134,839

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FAQs about Waipahu demographics 

What is the total population of Waipahu?

Waipahu has a total population of 40,482 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waipahu?

The gender ratio in Waipahu is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (19,386 residents)
  • 52.1% females (21,096 residents)

What is the median age in Waipahu?

The median age in Waipahu is 40.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waipahu?

The age distribution in Waipahu is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (6,801 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (4,935 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (10,412 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (9,700 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.3% (8,634 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waipahu?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waipahu is as follows:
  • White: 2.8% (1,125 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.8% (314 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (19 residents)
  • Asian: 70.1% (28,389 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 11.8% (4,756 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 13.6% (5,511 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (368 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 52.5% of the population in Waipahu.

How many housing units are there in Waipahu?

There are 9,800 housing units in Waipahu, reflecting a +3.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waipahu has a total of 9,282 households, with an average of 4 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waipahu?

Waipahu has a median household income of $103,895, representing a +5.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.9% in Waipahu, with a workforce of 19,529 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.5% (15,139 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.5% (4,390 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (1,271 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.5% (13,179 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.8% (3,482 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (1,597 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