Makaha, a coastal community on the island of Oahu, has been identified as the poorest town in Hawaii based on several key economic indicators. Despite its scenic beaches and natural beauty, Makaha faces persistent economic challenges that set it apart from other towns in the state.
Economic Hardship in Makaha
Makaha ranks as the poorest place in Hawaii due to a combination of low median household income and a high poverty rate. As of 2024, the median household income in Makaha is $57,235—the lowest in the state. The poverty rate stands at 24.0%, which is the highest among all Hawaiian towns. This means that nearly one in four residents live below the federal poverty line, a stark contrast to the state’s overall image of affluence and high cost of living.
The town’s population is just over 10,000 people, with about 2,400 individuals living in poverty. While the cost of living in Makaha is somewhat lower than in other parts of Hawaii, it still poses a significant burden for many families, especially when compared to their limited incomes.
Demographics and Community Profile
Makaha’s population is diverse, with a significant portion identifying as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. In 2025, the community’s population reached approximately 10,483, and the poverty rate remained high at 25.22%. The median age in Makaha is 37.1 years, indicating a relatively young population. The racial composition includes about 33% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, 22% White, 10% Asian, and nearly 28% identifying as two or more races.
The average household income is $78,003, but this figure is skewed by a small number of higher-earning households, and the median household income—at $63,291 in 2023—better reflects the reality for most residents. Notably, 21.5% of Makaha families live in poverty, which is above the state and national averages.
Factors Contributing to Poverty
Several factors contribute to Makaha’s economic struggles:
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Limited Job Opportunities: The town has fewer employment opportunities compared to urban centers like Honolulu, leading to higher unemployment and underemployment.
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Education and Training: Access to higher education and job training programs is limited, making it harder for residents to secure well-paying jobs.
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Cost of Living: While Makaha’s housing costs are lower than in other parts of Hawaii, the overall cost of living—including essentials like food and transportation—remains high, putting additional strain on low-income families.
Broader Context
Hawaii as a state struggles with high living costs and, when adjusted for these expenses, has one of the highest effective poverty rates in the nation. Official poverty data often underestimates the true extent of hardship in Hawaii, as it does not fully account for the high cost of essentials. In Makaha, these challenges are even more pronounced, making daily life difficult for many residents.
Makaha’s distinction as the poorest town in Hawaii highlights the economic disparities that exist even in places known for their natural beauty and tourist appeal. With the lowest median household income and the highest poverty rate in the state, Makaha’s residents face significant financial challenges. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, including improved access to education, job opportunities, and affordable housing, to ensure a better future for the community.
Sources
[1] https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-hawaii/
[2] https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/hawaii/makaha
[3] https://www.hawaii-demographics.com/makaha-demographics
[4] https://www.civilbeat.org/2011/11/13539-fact-check-white-house-waianae-among-hawaiis-poorest-areas/
[5] https://hiappleseed.org/blog/official-poverty-data-obscures-reality-in-hawaii
