Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Honolulu, HI

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Honolulu are Manoa, Nuuanu-Punchbowl, and Mccully-Moiliili. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Honolulu, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of December 16, 2025, the average rent in Honolulu is $1,713, which is 0.9% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.

Manoa

Average Rent

$1,734/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.8%

TransitScore® Rating

52/100

Units Available

24 Rentals

Surrounded by lush greenery, Manoa provides a serene retreat from the city's hustle. Known for its picturesque scenery and cool climate, this area is ideal for those who appreciate nature. Close to the University of Hawaii, Manoa offers a quiet ambiance with easy access to educational resources.

Nuuanu-Punchbowl

Average Rent

$1,799/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.9%

TransitScore® Rating

66/100

Units Available

28 Rentals

Nuuanu-Punchbowl combines historical depth with natural beauty, offering a peaceful environment. The area is known for lush landscapes and historic landmarks like the Nuuanu Pali Lookout. Affordable housing and proximity to downtown make it an attractive option for budget-conscious renters.

Mccully-Moiliili

Average Rent

$1,970/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.3%

TransitScore® Rating

66/100

Units Available

37 Rentals

Mccully-Moiliili offers an eclectic mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The neighborhood's central location provides easy access to Waikiki and Ala Moana. Residents appreciate the affordability and vibrant local culture that define this area.

Kalihi-Palama

Average Rent

$2,057/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.8%

TransitScore® Rating

65/100

Units Available

11 Rentals

Nestled next to Downtown Honolulu, Kalihi-Palama offers an accessible lifestyle with convenient transit options and affordable housing. This bustling neighborhood provides a range of recreational areas, ensuring residents can enjoy outdoor activities. Rich in cultural diversity, Kalihi-Palama is perfect for those seeking cost-effective living near the heart of the city.

Downtown Honolulu

Average Rent

$2,184/Month

TransitScore® Rating

78/100

Units Available

38 Rentals

Downtown Honolulu provides an exciting blend of historical sites and contemporary attractions. This area's affordable housing options make it accessible for those on a budget. With numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment venues, as well as the Punchbowl Crater in the backdrop, residents enjoy a lively urban experience.

Makiki-Lower Punchbowl-Tantalu

Average Rent

$2,240/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.9%

TransitScore® Rating

67/100

Units Available

38 Rentals

Makiki-Lower Punchbowl-Tantalus boasts a scenic hillside location with sweeping views of Honolulu. The neighborhood features numerous parks and hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its proximity to downtown, residents enjoy both tranquility and convenience.

Ala Moana-Kakaako

Average Rent

$3,056/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.5%

TransitScore® Rating

76/100

Units Available

36 Rentals

Ala Moana-Kakaako is an affordable neighborhood in Honolulu with an average rent price of $3,056. Compare this to the city average of $1,713. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.5%. Ala Moana-Kakaako provides easy access to Ala Moana Center, Ala Moana Plaza, and Foster Botanical Garden. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 97.

Diamond Head-Kapahulu-St Louis

Average Rent

$3,302/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.3%

TransitScore® Rating

60/100

Units Available

69 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Honolulu, Diamond Head-Kapahulu-St Louis might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,302, while the city’s average stands at $1,713. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.3%. Diamond Head-Kapahulu-St Louis is near Halawa Aloha Stadium Station, Waikiki Aquarium, and Waahila Ridge State Recreation Area.

Kaheka

Average Rent

$3,346/Month

TransitScore® Rating

74/100

Units Available

12 Rentals

Kaheka is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Kaheka is $3,346 while the city average is $1,713. Residents enjoy convenient access to Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden, Daniel K Inouye International, and Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 97.

Waikiki

Average Rent

$3,382/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.6%

TransitScore® Rating

64/100

Units Available

107 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Honolulu neighborhood on a budget, check out Waikiki. The average rent is $3,382, compared to the city average of $1,713. Rent prices have increased by 1.6%. Waikiki is convenient to University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Nature Center-Oahu, and Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 91.

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Methodology

Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.

We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.