Hawaii Housing Market & Affordability 2026
Median home prices, homeownership rates, affordability trends, and housing policy in Hawaii for 2026.
$850,000
Median Home Price
Very Low
Affordability Rating
58%
Homeownership Rate
+1.5%
Year-over-Year Change
Housing Market Overview
Hawaii has the least affordable housing market in the nation relative to incomes. Geographic constraints on land combined with strict land-use regulations, high construction costs, and strong demand from mainland buyers create a severe shortage. The state relies heavily on tourism employment with wages insufficient for housing costs.
Key Housing Data
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $850,000 |
| Year-over-Year Change | +1.5% |
| Affordability Rating | Very Low |
| Homeownership Rate | 58% |
| Renter Cost Burden | 41% |
| Housing Inventory | Critically Low |
| Zoning Environment | Extremely Restrictive |
| Rent Control | Limited |
| Property Tax Burden (Rank) | #1 nationally |
Political Context
The Democratic-controlled legislature has passed multiple housing bills but implementation has been slow. Native Hawaiian land trusts provide some affordable housing. Vacation rental regulation has been contentious, with some pushing to convert short-term rentals to long-term housing.