This Town Has Been Named the Poorest in Hawaii

Makaha has been identified as the poorest town in Hawaii based on recent economic data. With a poverty rate of 24% and median household income around $57,235, it tops lists for economic hardship among Hawaii communities.​

Economic Profile

Located on Oahu’s Waianae Coast, Makaha faces high poverty driven by limited job opportunities, tourism dependence, and housing costs exceeding national averages.

Over 2,400 residents live below the poverty line, far above Hawaii’s 9.6% statewide rate, amid rising inflation and post-pandemic recovery challenges. Unemployment hovers near 10%, with many in low-wage service or manual labor roles tied to nearby resorts.

Community programs focus on youth empowerment through education and job training, mirroring user interests in mentorship. Gardening initiatives and local farming offer sustainable paths, though infrastructure lags.​

Contributing Factors

High living expenses—rent at $1,800 monthly median—strain families, exacerbated by Waianae’s isolation from urban jobs.

Historical underinvestment, native Hawaiian demographics (over 60% population), and health disparities like diabetes rates twice the state average compound issues. Wildfires and climate impacts hit similar Leeward areas hard, displacing workers.

Federal aid via SNAP serves 30% of households, but long-term fixes need workforce development in construction and tech, aligning with user expertise areas.​

Community Efforts

Local nonprofits provide food banks, health clinics, and vocational programs. Waianae Comprehensive Health Center tackles wellness gaps, while youth sports foster resilience—key for career development. Construction projects for affordable housing promise 500 units by 2027, boosting local employment.​

Despite stigma, Makaha boasts strong cultural ties, beaches, and community spirit, attracting eco-tourism potential.

Comparisons

Town	Poverty Rate	Median Income	Key Challenge
Makaha	24% ​	$57,235	Job scarcity
Waianae	18.4%	$77,435 ​	Isolation
Nanakuli	16.5%	$77,453	Housing costs
Hilo	14.8%	$75,589	Tourism flux ​
Hawaiian Ocean View	Varies	Lowest prior ​	Rural poverty

Makaha leads 2025 rankings, though Waianae Coast towns cluster high.​

Outlook

Hawaii’s 2026 economic forecast predicts modest growth via construction, but tourism slips strain safety nets. Makaha could benefit from infrastructure investments, emphasizing education for youth in AI-impacted fields.

SOURCES:

• https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-hawaii/
• https://247wallst.com/income/2025/06/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/