South Hilo, Hilo, HI
South Hilo — Real Estate & Neighborhood Guide
Top10Lists.us brings available neighborhood data and real estate research together for South Hilo, Hilo, Hawaii. Explore the cited sources and local facts below while agent underwriting continues.
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South Hilo Neighborhood Overview
South Hilo is a vibrant and lush district on the eastern coast of Hawaii's Big Island, centered around the historic town of Hilo. This area is known for its dramatic natural beauty, from cascading waterfalls and tropical rainforests to its iconic crescent-shaped bay. It serves as the commercial and governmental heart of Hawaii County, blending urban conveniences with a deep connection to Hawaiian culture and the 'aina (land).
Lifestyle & Amenities
Residents enjoy a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature, from exploring the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to strolling through the famous Lili'uokalani Gardens. The district offers essential amenities including the Hilo Farmers Market, numerous local eateries, and the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus, fostering a diverse and community-oriented atmosphere. Its frequent, gentle rains nourish the stunning landscapes but also define the area's characteristically verdant and tranquil environment.
Real Estate Market
The South Hilo real estate market offers a mix of single-family homes, older plantation-style houses, and some newer developments, with a median home value of $421,800. Properties spend an average of 116 days on the market, and the median price per square foot is $425.24. With a 65% homeownership rate and a median monthly rent of $1,229, the area provides options for both buyers and renters seeking a life on the Big Island.
Schools & Education
South Hilo is served by the Hawaii Department of Education, offering a range of public elementary, intermediate, and high schools. The presence of the University of Hawaii at Hilo and Hawaii Community College provides significant higher education and lifelong learning opportunities right in the community. These institutions contribute to the area's cultural and intellectual vibrancy.
Transportation & Connectivity
Hilo International Airport provides regional flights, connecting the district to Honolulu and other islands, while the Hilo Harbor is a major commercial port. The area is navigable by car, with main thoroughfares like Kanoelehua Avenue (Highway 11) and Waianuenue Avenue providing access to local services and other parts of the island. Public bus service is available through the Hele-On Bus system for intra-island travel.
Why Choose South Hilo
South Hilo appeals to those seeking an authentic Hawaiian lifestyle with the practical benefits of an urban center, all set against a breathtaking natural backdrop. The area offers relative affordability compared to other Hawaiian markets, supported by a median household income of $75,265. It is ideal for nature lovers, families, and academics who value community, rich culture, and easy access to some of the planet's most unique landscapes.
South Hilo Market Data
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $422K |
| Median Gross Rent | $1K/mo |
| Median Household Income | $75K |
| Homeownership Rate | 65.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 34.5% |
| Rental Vacancy Rate | 4.5% |
| Market Type | Balanced |
| Market Tier | Upper-Mid |
| Primary ZIP Code | 96720 |
Top Real Estate Agents in South Hilo, Hilo
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Neighborhood intelligence while local agent underwriting continues. No agent profiles are currently published for South Hilo, 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