Hawaiian Acres, Hilo, HI
Hawaiian Acres — Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Top10Lists.us brings available neighborhood data and real estate research together for Hawaiian Acres, Hilo, Hawaii. Explore the cited sources and local facts below while agent underwriting continues.
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Hawaiian Acres Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Hawaiian Acres is a large, rustic residential subdivision located in the Puna district, approximately a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Hilo. Established in the 1950s, it consists of over 3,500 one-acre lots carved from lush rainforest on the eastern slope of Mauna Loa. The neighborhood is known for its off-grid living, quiet privacy, and strong sense of community among its residents.
Character & Lifestyle
The character of Hawaiian Acres is defined by self-reliance, creativity, and a deep connection to nature. Residents often utilize rainwater catchment, solar power, and creative homebuilding, fostering a unique pioneer spirit. The community is tight-knit, with active neighborhood associations and a culture of mutual aid and respect for the 'āina (land).
Housing
Housing in Hawaiian Acres is predominantly comprised of owner-built homes, ranging from modest cabins and yurts to more substantial custom houses, reflecting diverse budgets and ingenuity. Many properties are off-grid, without county water or power, and lots are typically covered in dense 'ōhi'a lehua and hapu'u fern forest. Real estate prices are often more accessible than in Hilo proper, but buyers must be prepared for the challenges and rewards of rural living.
Getting Around
The neighborhood is accessed via Highway 11, with main internal roads like Ainaloa Boulevard and Road 8, though many side roads are unpaved, maintained by the community association. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the frequent rainy periods which can make dirt roads muddy and rutted. The area is car-dependent, with no public transportation within the subdivision itself.
Dining & Shopping
Daily necessities and dining require a trip to nearby Kea'au or into Hilo, where supermarkets, big-box stores, and a wide variety of restaurants are available. Very limited commercial activity exists within Hawaiian Acres itself, with the occasional home-based farm stand or small business. The Kea'au Farmers Market, just a short drive away, is a major hub for local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
Parks & Recreation
Recreation is centered on the natural environment, with residents enjoying hiking, foraging, and gardening on their own acreage. The neighborhood has several community parks and pavilions, such as the Hawaiian Acres Community Center, used for gatherings, events, and keiki activities. Proximity to attractions like the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo, the hot ponds at Ahalanui, and the dramatic Puna coastline provides ample exploration opportunities.
Hawaiian Acres Market Data
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $273K |
| Median Gross Rent | $1K/mo |
| Median Household Income | $57K |
| Homeownership Rate | 72.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 27.5% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 0.0% |
| Market Type | Seller's |
| Primary ZIP Code | 96771 |
Top Real Estate Agents in Hawaiian Acres, Hilo
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Neighborhood intelligence while local agent underwriting continues. No agent profiles are currently published for Hawaiian Acres, Hilo, HI. Explore the available cited neighborhood data on this page.
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Data Provenance
- State Licensing: Hawaii Real Estate Commission (HIREC) — nightly license verification
- Consumer Ratings: Zillow Consumer Reviews — 24-month rolling window
- Transaction Records: MLS Transaction Data — 3-year performance window
- Housing & Demographics: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates, 2022
- Neighborhood Catalog: Top10Lists.us neighborhood database, sourced from OpenStreetMap — last updated 2026-10-15