According to recent data, Makaha has been identified as the poorest town in Hawaii. Located on the island of Oahu, Makaha faces significant economic challenges that have led to this unfortunate distinction.
Key Statistics for Makaha
- Population: 10,042
- Median Income: $57,235 (lowest in Hawaii)
- Poverty Rate: 24.0% (highest in Hawaii)
- Number of People in Poverty: 2,408
Factors Contributing to Makaha’s Economic Struggles
- Low Median Income: With a median household income of just $57,235, Makaha residents earn significantly less than those in other parts of Hawaii.
- High Poverty Rate: Nearly a quarter of Makaha’s population lives below the poverty line, which is the highest rate in the state.
- Limited Job Opportunities: The combination of low pay and a lack of jobs contributes to the economic hardship faced by many residents.
Comparison to Other Areas
While Makaha tops the list of poorest places in Hawaii, other areas facing similar challenges include:
- Waianae
- Wahiawa
- Nanakuli
- Hilo
These towns also struggle with low median incomes and high poverty rates relative to the rest of the state.
Broader Context
It’s important to note that Hawaii as a whole faces unique economic challenges due to its high cost of living. While the state’s official poverty rate may appear low compared to other states, the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM), which accounts for the cost of living, reveals that Hawaii actually has the 10th highest poverty rate in the nation at 15%.
Despite these challenges, Makaha and other struggling communities in Hawaii continue to work towards economic improvement and better opportunities for their residents.
Source
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-hawaii/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Hawaii_locations_by_per_capita_income
- https://www.civilbeat.org/2011/11/13539-fact-check-white-house-waianae-among-hawaiis-poorest-areas/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Hawaii/comments/1e0rpzj/hawaii_is_americas_worst_state_for_business_in/
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewdepietro/2024/10/01/here-are-the-richest-places-in-hawaii-per-the-latest-census-data/