Ala Moana-Kakaako, Honolulu,HI

Thinking about moving to Honolulu? The Ala Moana-Kakaako neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a vibrant mix of urban living and beachside charm that’s hard to beat. This area is known for its trendy vibe, thanks to a variety of eclectic shops, art galleries, and some of the best local eateries. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore fresh poke bowls and innovative farm-to-table dishes or an art lover excited by colorful street murals and creative spaces, Ala Moana-Kakaako has something to satisfy your interests. Plus, the famous Ala Moana Center, one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world, is right here, making it easy to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place.

If being near the water is a priority, you’re in luck. Ala Moana Beach Park is a standout attraction that locals and newcomers alike adore. This spacious park offers a beautiful sandy beach, calm waters perfect for paddleboarding or swimming, and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation. It’s an ideal spot for families or anyone who enjoys outdoor activities without straying far from home. For those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, Kakaako’s weekly farmers’ markets and food truck events bring the community together with fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious street food. The neighborhood is also home to the SALT at Our Kakaako development, a hip retail and dining complex that blends historic buildings with modern design, making it a favorite local hangout.

One of the perks of living in Ala Moana-Kakaako is its convenient proximity to Downtown Honolulu, which is just a short drive or bus ride away. This makes commuting to work or attending cultural events in the city center hassle-free. Despite its urban feel, the neighborhood maintains a welcoming community spirit with plenty of residential options, from luxury high-rise condos to charming townhomes. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking to enjoy the aloha lifestyle, Ala Moana-Kakaako provides an exciting, accessible, and beautiful place to call home in Honolulu.

12% of the Ala Moana-Kakaako population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 12% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Exploring Ala Moana-Kakaako demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Ala Moana-Kakaako has a population of 23,387, which is larger than many other Honolulu neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 14,098, Ala Moana-Kakaako is more densely populated than many other Honolulu neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 47, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Ala Moana-Kakaako crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Ala Moana-Kakaako, home prices come in around $755,335, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Ala Moana-Kakaako can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,879, rental rates in Ala Moana-Kakaako are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Ala Moana-Kakaako. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Ala Moana-Kakaako offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.