Big Island Area Guide | Commercial Investment Strategies, LLC

Welcome to the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, offering an extraordinary mix of climates, landscapes, and lifestyles. From active volcanoes and lush rainforests to white-sand beaches and world-class resorts, the Big Island provides an unparalleled setting for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, snorkeling in Kona’s crystal-clear waters, or stargazing atop Mauna Kea, life here is as dynamic as the island itself.

One of the most appealing aspects of living on the Big Island is the variety of lifestyles it supports. Residents can start their mornings with locally grown Kona coffee, spend the afternoon hiking waterfalls in Hilo, and close the evening with oceanfront dining in Waimea or Kohala. The island’s size and diversity make Big Island real estate especially unique, offering everything from resort-style living to private off-grid retreats.

What to Love

Vast landscapes ranging from volcanic fields to tropical rainforests
Beautiful beaches including Hapuna, Punaluʻu (black sand), and Mauna Kea
Rich cultural history and community spirit
A balance of rural living, small towns, and luxury resort areas
A wide range of Big Island real estate options, including luxury resort villas, oceanfront estates, ranch-style homes, agricultural properties, and affordable condos

Local Lifestyle

Life on the Big Island is slower-paced and deeply connected to the land and ocean. The west side, particularly Kona and Kohala, offers sunny weather, resorts, and luxury communities with golf courses and beachfront homes. Hilo and the east side are greener, with waterfalls, rainforests, and a thriving local community. Waimea combines cool upcountry living with ranch lands and a strong sense of tradition. Whether you’re seeking resort-style luxury or a peaceful retreat, the Big Island offers a lifestyle to fit every preference.

Dining and Shopping

The Big Island is a food lover’s destination, with restaurants highlighting fresh seafood, grass-fed beef, and locally grown produce. Kona and Kohala feature fine dining at world-class resorts, while Hilo offers family-owned eateries and farmers markets showcasing local flavors. Waimea is known for farm-to-table restaurants and artisan cafés. Coffee lovers will find Kona coffee farms offering tours and tastings throughout the year.

Shopping on the Big Island is a mix of resort boutiques, local artisans, and open-air markets. Kailua-Kona has a range of shops from surf stores to galleries, while Hilo’s farmers markets are famous for local produce, crafts, and handmade goods. Resort areas along the Kohala Coast offer luxury shopping and curated island-inspired brands.

Things to Do and Entertainment

The Big Island offers endless outdoor adventure. Residents and visitors can hike across lava fields in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, snorkel with manta rays in Kona, or explore waterfalls like Akaka and Rainbow Falls near Hilo. Mauna Kea’s summit provides some of the best stargazing in the world, while the island’s many trails and beaches invite daily exploration.

Entertainment here blends natural beauty with cultural experiences. From local hula festivals and Hawaiian music performances to art galleries and resort events, the Big Island combines community traditions with modern amenities. Whether you’re seeking peaceful seclusion or luxury living, the island offers a lifestyle as expansive as its landscape.

Overview for Big Island, HI

42,087 people live in Big Island, where the median age is 46 and the average individual income is $49,807. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

42,087

Total Population

46 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$49,807

Average individual Income

Name

Demographics and Employment Data for Big Island, HI

Population Households Employment

Big Island has 14,578 households, with an average household size of 3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Big Island do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 42,087 people call Big Island home. The population density is 2,440.972 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

42,087

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

46

Median Age

48.38 / 51.62%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree

14,578

Total Households

3

Average Household Size

$49,807

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married

Single

Divorced

Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes

15 to 29 Minutes

30 to 59 Minutes

60+ Minutes

Schools in Big Island, HI

All ()

Primary Schools ()

Middle Schools ()

High Schools ()

Mixed Schools ()

The following schools are within or nearby Big Island. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Type

Name