Is Schofield Barracks Safe, Pros and cons of living in Schofield Barracks
Schofield Barracks, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, is a significant U.S. Army installation and census-designated place. It serves as the headquarters for U.S. Army Hawaii and is home to the 25th Infantry Division. The area offers a unique living experience, blending military life with the tropical allure of Hawaii.
This guide explores the various facets of living in Schofield Barracks, covering safety, cost of living, employment, climate, education, and demographics. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone considering a move to this vibrant community.
Is it Safe to Live in Schofield Barracks?
Schofield Barracks generally presents a safe environment for its residents. The overall crime rate is reported to be significantly below the national average, with violent crime rates also being notably lower than in most of the United States. This safety profile is a key factor for individuals and families choosing to reside in the area.
While the overall crime rate is low, specific crime statistics can vary. For instance, larceny/theft is noted as the most common crime type, with a rate significantly above the national average for that specific category. However, when considering the totality of crime, Schofield Barracks is considered safer than a large percentage of U.S. cities.
Crime Statistics Overview
The crime rate in Schofield Barracks is approximately 12.55 per 1,000 residents annually. This figure is lower than the Hawaii state average and the national average. Residents often consider the northwest part of Schofield Barracks to be the safest.
When analyzing crime by type, property crime is more prevalent than violent crime, aligning with national trends. However, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is estimated to be around 1 in 50 annually, while the chance of being a property crime victim is about 1 in 3.
Cost of Living in Schofield Barracks
The cost of living in Schofield Barracks is considerably higher than the U.S. national average, with monthly expenses for singles and families of four reflecting this higher rate. This is largely driven by the general cost of goods and services in Hawaii due to its island location and the expense of importing items.
Despite the higher overall costs, military personnel often find the cost manageable due to the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), which is adjusted for Hawaii’s high cost of living. Renting may also be a more economical choice for some compared to purchasing a home, given the local housing market.
Housing Costs
Housing expenses are a primary contributor to the elevated cost of living in Schofield Barracks. The median home value is substantial, and rental prices also tend to be higher than the national average. For example, the median rent for all bedroom counts and property types in Schofield Barracks as of May 2026 is $1,925, which is slightly lower than the national average but significantly higher than the state average.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Schofield Barracks typically ranges from $600 to $1200 per month, with a median of around $900. Houses for rent can command a higher price, with an average monthly cost of $3,500.
Daily Expenses
Beyond housing, daily expenses such as food, utilities, transportation, and healthcare also contribute to the cost of living. Food expenses are noted to be above the national average. Household bills in Schofield Barracks are also higher than the U.S. median, accounting for a significant portion of annual household income.
While the cost of living is high, Hawaii is ranked highly for healthcare access and affordability, which can be a mitigating factor for residents.
Job Market and Major Employers
The primary employer in Schofield Barracks is the U.S. Army itself, providing numerous employment opportunities for service members and civilians. The military installation supports a wide range of roles, from administrative and technical positions to specialized military occupations.
Beyond direct military employment, the surrounding communities offer job opportunities, particularly in sectors like retail trade, public administration, and healthcare. The job market can be competitive, influenced by factors such as company downsizing and the island’s overall economic landscape.
Employment and Salary Insights
The average annual salary in Schofield Barracks is approximately $50,244 as of April 2026. Salaries can vary significantly based on occupation, experience, and specific roles within the military or civilian sectors. For instance, U.S. Army salaries in Schofield Barracks average around $53,989 annually.
Key employment sectors for residents include retail trade, public administration, and healthcare and social assistance. The unemployment rate in the county where Schofield Barracks is located was 2.3% in 2018.
Climate and Weather
Schofield Barracks experiences a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures typically range from the low 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The hottest months are generally July and August, with average highs around 84°F, while the coolest months are January and February, with average lows around 61°F.
Rainfall is present throughout the year, with an annual average of around 42 inches. December and January tend to be the wettest months, while June experiences the least amount of rain. The air can feel humid, particularly during the summer months from May to November.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
The climate is often described as warm, muggy, and partly cloudy during the summers, transitioning to comfortable, wet, and mostly clear conditions in the winters. The area is also noted to be windy year-round. While hurricanes and severe storms are rare, the islands are volcanically active, though major volcanic activity is not expected on Oahu.
The most comfortable weather for outdoor activities typically occurs from January to April and parts of December, when temperatures are mild and humidity is lower.
Education and Schools
Schofield Barracks is served by public schools operated by the Hawaii Department of Education. Key schools within the Schofield Barracks CDP include Samuel K. Solomon Elementary School and Daniel K. Inouye Elementary School. These schools are part of the local school district, which is evaluated based on statewide assessment scores and student growth.
Families seeking educational options can explore various public schools in the surrounding areas of Mililani, Wahiawa, and Waialua. Some schools have received recognition, such as Blue Ribbon status, and offer programs designed to support military dependents.
School Performance and Options
Sergeant Samuel K. Solomon Elementary School is rated better than a significant percentage of schools in Hawaii and nationwide. Families can utilize resources like MySchoolHives to compare school ratings, rankings, and academic performance metrics across different schools and districts.
For middle school options, Wahiawa Middle School is noted for its interdisciplinary teaching teams and transition center, making it well-suited for military families. Mililani Middle School is also highlighted as one of the largest middle schools in the state.
Demographics of Schofield Barracks
Schofield Barracks has a population of approximately 16,270 residents as of 2024. The demographic makeup is diverse, with a significant percentage of the population identifying as White (Non-Hispanic), followed by Black or African American.
The median age in Schofield Barracks is quite young, around 22.7 years. This youthful demographic is reflected in the age distribution, with a large portion of the population falling into the under-15 and 15-24 age groups.
Population and Diversity
Citizenship is high in Schofield Barracks, with 97.1% of residents being U.S. citizens. The foreign-born population is around 7.25%, which is comparable to the national average. The racial makeup includes a substantial Caucasian population, alongside African American, Asian, and other racial groups.
Gender-wise, the population is predominantly male, with males making up about 62.4% of the residents and females comprising 37.6%. This gender imbalance is also reflected in the ratio of males to females aged 18 and over.
Household and Income Statistics
Schofield Barracks has a median household income reported at $80,388. The poverty rate is relatively low, standing at 2.62%. Households in Schofield Barracks typically have an average of three members.
The median individual income varies across different sources, with some indicating around $34,801 and others suggesting higher figures for specific roles or overall averages. For example, the average per capita income is cited as $49,756.