Is Heeia Safe, Pros and cons of living in Heeia
Heeia, a census-designated place in Honolulu County, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and community living. Nestled on the windward side of Oahu, north of Kaneohe, this area provides residents with a distinct island lifestyle. Its name, derived from Hawaiian, means “washed away,” alluding to historical events that shaped its past. The community is characterized by its residential areas, many of which are situated along the picturesque Kaneohe Bay.
The demographics of Heeia paint a picture of a mature and diverse population. With a median age of 44.3 years, the community skews older, indicating a potentially quieter lifestyle. The population is fairly balanced between males and females, with a significant portion identifying as Asian or multiracial. This diversity contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of the area, reflecting Hawaii’s broader demographic landscape.
Is it Safe to Live in Heeia?
Heeia generally presents a safe environment for its residents, holding a crime safety grade of B as of May 2026 (DoorProfit). This indicates that the area experiences below-average crime rates when compared to national statistics. However, it is important to note that safety can vary significantly between neighborhoods within Heeia, making localized research advisable.
When examining crime data, Heeia’s overall crime rate is notably lower than the national average. Specifically, violent crimes in Heeia are reported to be 84% lower than the national average (Area Vibes). This suggests a low risk of violent incidents for those living in or visiting the area. Property crime rates are also lower than the national average, contributing to the overall sense of security.
Crime Statistics Overview
Detailed crime statistics for Heeia show a favorable comparison to national benchmarks. The chance of becoming a victim of crime in Heeia is approximately 1 in 178, a figure that places the community in a safer position than 82% of U.S. cities (Area Vibes). While year-over-year crime has seen an increase of 17%, the overall rates remain significantly lower than national averages.
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program and local law enforcement agencies provide the data for these safety assessments. While specific crime indices are not always readily available for every small locality, the general safety grade and comparative statistics offer a good indication of the crime landscape in Heeia. It is always recommended to research specific neighborhoods for the most detailed local crime information.
Cost of Living and Housing in Heeia
The cost of living in Hawaii is notoriously high, and Heeia is no exception, though specific local data can be nuanced. The median household income in Heeia was reported as $176,250 annually (Point2Homes). This relatively high income level is necessary to navigate the expenses associated with living in Hawaii.
Housing prices in Heeia reflect the broader high-cost market of Hawaii. The median real estate price in Heeia is approximately $1,479,462, positioning it as more expensive than 83.0% of neighborhoods in Hawaii and 95.5% of neighborhoods nationwide (NeighborhoodScout). This high home value indicates a significant investment is required for property ownership in this area.
Housing Market Trends
Rental prices in Heeia are also a considerable expense, though they may be lower compared to some other Hawaii neighborhoods. The average rental price in Heeia is reported at $2,860 per month (NeighborhoodScout). This figure is lower than 72.8% of Hawaii neighborhoods, suggesting that while still high, renting might offer a more accessible entry point than purchasing a home.
The housing market in Heeia is characterized by single-family homes and townhomes, with a majority of residences being owner-occupied. Many homes in the area were built between 1940 and 1969, indicating a mature housing stock. Home and apartment vacancy rates are around 7.8%, which is near the national average, suggesting a stable rental market (NeighborhoodScout).
Job Market and Economy in Heeia
Heeia is part of the broader economic landscape of Honolulu County, which significantly influences its job market. The unemployment rate in Honolulu County was 2.2% as of February 2026, indicating a strong local job market (USAFacts). This low unemployment rate suggests ample opportunities for those seeking employment within the region.
While specific major employers within Heeia are not detailed, the largest employers in Hawaii provide a general overview of the job market. These include the Hawaii State Department of Education, healthcare systems like Queen’s Medical Center, and various sectors such as tourism, agriculture, light manufacturing, and the military (Livability.com).
Average Salaries and Income
The average annual household income in Heeia was reported as $213,473 in 2024, with a median household income of $176,250 (Point2Homes). These figures are substantially higher than the national average, reflecting the high cost of living and the demand for skilled labor in Hawaii.
The median income for households led by residents aged 45 to 64 is notably high, reaching $213,214 (Point2Homes). This suggests that established professionals in Heeia experience a strong earning potential. Overall, the economic indicators point to a robust income level for residents, necessary for sustaining life in this high-cost area.
Climate and Environment in Heeia
Heeia enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and consistent humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures typically range between 69°F and 84°F, with daily highs rarely dipping below 64°F or exceeding 86°F (myPerfectWeather). This temperate climate makes outdoor activities pleasant year-round.
Rainfall is a notable aspect of Heeia’s climate, with an average annual precipitation of about 59 inches (myPerfectWeather). The rainy season typically spans from July to May, with January often experiencing the most rain. Conversely, a drier period occurs from late May to early July, with June being the driest month.
Weather Patterns
The weather in Heeia is generally described as warm, muggy, and mostly clear, influenced by trade winds (myPerfectWeather). Summer months can feel particularly humid, from May through December. The ocean temperature also varies seasonally, being warmest from August to November, with September seeing an average of 80°F.
Daily high temperatures in the summer months, like September, average around 84°F, while winter months, such as January, see average highs of approximately 78°F (myPerfectWeather). This consistent warmth makes Heeia an attractive destination for those seeking a tropical environment.
Education and Schools in Heeia
Heeia is served by Heeia Elementary School, a public institution catering to students from Pre-Kindergarten to 6th grade. The school is part of the Hawaii Department of Education and has received mixed ratings, with a Niche grade of B- and a GreatSchools Rating of 7 out of 10 (Homes.com).
Academically, Heeia Elementary School shows varying proficiency levels. Approximately 39% of students achieve proficiency in math, and 47% are proficient in reading (Homes.com). The student-teacher ratio at the school is 12:1, which is lower than the Hawaii state average of 14:1, potentially allowing for more individualized attention.
School Performance and Diversity
While Heeia Elementary School ranks in the bottom 50% for overall test scores in Hawaii, its math proficiency is slightly above the state average (Public School Review). Minority enrollment is high, at 96% of the student body, with a majority identifying as Hispanic (Public School Review).
Compared to nearby schools like Kaneohe Elementary, Heeia Elementary has a lower overall testing rank. However, its student-teacher ratio is more favorable. The school’s performance data, including test scores and student demographics, provides a comprehensive view for prospective families.
Demographics and Community Profile
Heeia is home to approximately 5,144 residents, with a slight year-over-year population increase noted (Point2Homes). The median age in Heeia is 44.3 years, indicating a population that is generally mature (Point2Homes). The gender distribution is nearly even, with 49.3% males and 50.7% females.
The racial makeup of Heeia is diverse, with Asians forming the largest group at 43.2%, followed by individuals of two or more races at 28.2%, and White individuals at 15.9% (Census Dots). A smaller percentage identifies as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. This demographic composition reflects the multicultural environment characteristic of Hawaii.
Household and Income Demographics
Heeia consists of about 1,600 households, with an average of three members per household (Point2Homes). The majority of these households are families, with 85% being family units and the remaining 15% comprising individuals living alone or with non-relatives. This suggests a strong family presence within the community.
The median household income in Heeia is $176,250 (Point2Homes). While a significant portion of families live above the poverty line, 2.2% of Heeia families live below it (Census Dots, Point2Homes). The average renter’s household income is $129,833, with a rent-to-income ratio of 32.4% (Point2Homes).