The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Hilo ranges from $1,400 to $1,600.

While this is lower than the Kona area within Hawaii's Big Island, it is slightly higher compared to most major cities on the mainland.

There is a noticeable difference in rent between downtown Hilo and the outskirts, such as Keaau and Pahoa. New constructions near downtown or Banyan Drive can go up to $1,700 to $1,900, while you can find listings in the outskirts for around $1,200.

In Hawaii, location is the biggest factor determining rent.

Studios range from $1,100 to $1,250, and 2-bedroom apartments are around $1,750 to $2,000. Due to the unique characteristics of Hawaii, there is a shortage of units, so vacancies do not last long regardless of size.

Over the past year, the rental trend has shown a gradual increase. It is at an annual rate of 2% to 4%, which is more stable compared to the sharp rise immediately after the pandemic, but the upward trend continues. Given the extremely limited new supply in the island region, it is unlikely that this trend will reverse in the short term.

Compared to nearby cities, Hilo is definitely cheaper than Kona, and it is close to half the price compared to Honolulu on Oahu. This is a clear advantage. For those considering a move to Hawaii with a limited budget, Hilo can be a realistic alternative.

While there isn't a large concentration of Korean residents in Hilo, small Korean households are scattered around downtown and the Keaau area. It is important to note that access to Korean markets is limited compared to Honolulu.

For Korean households, the low rent in Hilo is attractive, but the lack of Korean community infrastructure is a trade-off. If you want a balance between downtown access and rental prices, the Pahoa area seems to be a realistic option. It is recommended to check the moisture and mold management conditions in person before signing a lease.