The struggle for affordable and accessible housing in Hawaiʻi has been ongoing, particularly for Native Hawaiians facing systemic barriers to homeownership and rental stability.
Recognizing this, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) has taken significant steps to address these disparities through its workforce housing initiative in Kakaʻako Makai. This development aims to provide housing opportunities for Native Hawaiians employed in critical industries while fostering economic stability.
Hawaiʻi’s cost of living is among the highest in the nation, and housing affordability remains a pressing concern. According to economic data, Native Hawaiians represent 20.8% of the workforce across six key industries identified by OHA: healthcare, hospitality, education, law enforcement, civil service, and construction. These industries sustain the state’s economy and require a stable workforce. However, many Native Hawaiian workers struggle to find affordable housing near their workplaces.
A closer look at the data reveals that Native Hawaiians are overrepresented in construction (29.8%), law enforcement (28.2%), and education (21%). Despite strong participation, median incomes for Native Hawaiians often fall below statewide averages.
The median household income for Native Hawaiians is $83,317, approximately 94.6% of the overall state median, while the median family income is $93,214, or 89.9% of the state average. Lower income levels make homeownership difficult, with 54.7% of households reporting no more than $75,000 available for a down payment.
The mean annual salaries for these industries range from $44,850 in hospitality to $88,900 in healthcare. Despite significant Native Hawaiian representation, wage disparities persist, limiting access to homeownership. For example:
- Healthcare: Native Hawaiians make up 16.1% of the workforce, with an average salary of $88,900. Registered nurses earn an average of $119,710, while home health and personal care aides earn significantly less at $35,100.
- Hospitality: Native Hawaiians comprise 18.5% of the industry, with an average salary of $44,850. Positions such as fast-food workers earn $30,990, while office clerks make approximately $44,600.
- Education: Native Hawaiians make up 21% of employees, with a mean salary of $59,670. K-12 teachers earn $60,940, whereas teaching assistants earn $36,130.
- Law Enforcement: With 28.2% Native Hawaiian participation, law enforcement professionals earn a mean salary of $59,620. Police officers earn approximately $89,850 annually.
- Civil Service: Native Hawaiians represent 14.2% of this sector, earning an average salary of $53,420. Social service assistants make $41,020, while clerks earn around $44,600.
- Construction: The highest percentage of Native Hawaiian workers (29.8%), with an average salary of $79,770. Carpenters make $83,250, while construction laborers earn $65,570.
Despite being gainfully employed, high housing costs remain a barrier for Hawaiians. Nearly 45% of Hawaiians surveyed have considered leaving Hawaiʻi due to the lack of affordable housing. Housing projections indicate that approximately 14,407 units will be needed for Hawaiian households by 2025, with 57% required for households earning below 80% of the area median income (AMI).
OHA’s vision for Kakaʻako Makai includes workforce housing tailored to Native Hawaiians working in essential industries. By providing affordable ownership opportunities, OHA aims to create a stable community where Native Hawaiians can live and work without excessive housing costs.
The planned housing development aligns with city affordable housing guidelines, ensuring units remain accessible to families earning less than 140% of AMI. These homes will help alleviate economic pressures, as nearly half of Hawaiian households cannot afford mortgage payments higher than $2,000 per month.
OHA’s workforce housing initiative is a critical step in addressing systemic housing challenges faced by Native Hawaiians. Prioritizing affordability and accessibility, this development can serve as a model for future projects. Ensuring Hawaiians have stable, affordable homes will strengthen the workforce and help preserve Hawaiʻi’s cultural and economic vitality for generations to come.
