Population
1,000 - 5,000
~1,629 residents
Median Income
$92,188
Household median
Home Value
$402,200
Median price
Area Type
Rural
51.6 sq mi
Location
Detailed Information
Demographics
- Population Range:
- 1,000 - 5,000
- Median Income:
- $92,188
- Classification:
- Rural
Housing Market
- Median Value:
- $402,200
- Price Range:
- $325,000 - $475,000
- Land Area:
- 51.6 sq mi
Data Quality: 100%
ExcellentData from US Census Bureau 2023 • US Census Bureau
Zillow Home Value Index
Real-time market data powered by Zillow • Updated October 2025
Metro Area: Hilo, HI
Typical Home Value in 96781
Price Appreciation
Historical Price Trend
Historical home values show market trends over time. Values are smoothed and seasonally adjusted.
Investment Insight
Declining values: Home values decreased by -1.61% over the past year, which may present buying opportunities.
💡 Note: Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Consider local market factors, job growth, and development plans when evaluating real estate investments.
Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) data provided by Zillow Group. ZHVI represents the typical home value for homes in the 35th to 65th percentile range. Data is updated monthly and reflects market trends as of October 31, 2025.
Median Income
$92,188
vs state avg
Median Home Value
$402,200
vs state avg
Population
1,629
Rural
Quality of Life
71/100
Good
What's It Like to Live in Papaikou?
Key insights about ZIP 96781 at a glance

Population
1,629
Rural community

Median Income
$92k
Household earnings

Median Home Value
$402k
Housing market

Affordability
4.4
Price-to-income ratio
Your Day in Papaikou

Start your day with quality education options in Papaikou

Explore local shops and restaurants in Papaikou

Unwind in green spaces and community areas in Papaikou
Quick Compare
See how this stacks up
Explore Papaikou, HI
Visual guide to life in this area






Economy & Employment
Job market and economic indicators

Median Household Income
$92,188

Median Home Value
$402,200

Home-to-Income Ratio
4.4x
Education & Schools
Educational opportunities and demographics in 96781

Local Schools
Papaikou offers diverse educational opportunities for all ages
85%
Estimated graduates
358
School-age residents
School Quality
Above Average
Based on area demographics
Healthcare & Wellness
Medical facilities and health resources in your area

Quality Healthcare Access
Papaikou area has multiple medical facilities serving the community
5-10
Healthcare facilities nearby
< 5mi
Average distance to hospital
Parks & Recreation
Outdoor spaces and recreational activities

Community Parks
Multiple green spaces and recreational facilities for families
Parks
3-5 nearby
Sports
Fields & courts
Trails
Walking paths
Events
Community gatherings
Shopping & Dining
Retail, restaurants, and local businesses

Local Shopping
Papaikou offers diverse shopping and dining experiences
Restaurants
20+ dining options
Retail Stores
Major & local shops
Cafes & More
Local favorites
Pros & Cons of Living in ZIP 96781
Advantages
- High median income at $92,188, well above state average
- Low population density offers peace and quiet
- Rural character with natural surroundings
- Small, tight-knit community atmosphere
Considerations
- Limited access to urban amenities and services
Living in Papaikou, HI 96781
Papaikou offers a unique lifestyle in the heart of HI. This rural community provides residents with a close-knit community feel.
Spacious Living
Large lots, privacy, and connection to nature.
Car-Dependent
Personal vehicle necessary for most daily activities.
Who Lives Here
Middle to upper-middle class families, working professionals, and dual-income households.
Lifestyle & Activities
Rural residents who appreciate open spaces, privacy, and connection to nature.
Household Composition
Family households with multi-generational homes and long-term residents.
What's Life Like Here? (AI Insights)
Data & Demographics
Demographic Distribution
Age Distribution
Education Levels
ZIP 96781 by the Numbers
Interactive data visualizations for Rural living
Total Population
0
Median Income
$0
Home Value
$0
Quality Score
0/100
Comparative Metrics
1.6% of max (100,000)
61.5% of max (150,000)
50.3% of max (800,000)
12.74
out of 100
Affordability
3.26
out of 100
Community Size
61.46
out of 100
Economic Strength
Transportation & Commute
Average commute time is approximately 35 minutes, typical for rural areas.
Distance to Major Cities
Regional Hub
15-40 miles
25-60 min
drive time
Note: Commute times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, time of day, and specific locations.
Weather & Climate
Climate Type
Varied regional climate
Seasonal Pattern
Four distinct seasons with typical North American weather patterns
Weather Highlights
- Seasonal variety
- Regional weather characteristics
- Diverse outdoor activities
Discover Papaikou Amenities
Everything you need, right in your neighborhood

Schools
12+ locations

Healthcare
8+ locations

Shopping
50+ locations

Parks
15+ locations
How Does Papaikou Stack Up?
See how ZIP 96781 compares to state and national averages
Income Comparison
Home Value Comparison
Ready to Explore More?
Compare Papaikou with other areas or find your perfect ZIP code match
Living Here: Pros & Cons (AI Analysis)
Who Lives Here?
Community Profile
ZIP code 96781 in Papaikou, HI (Hawaii) is a small community with approximately 1,629 residents. The area is classified as rural, offering a peaceful, rural environment.
Income Demographics
The median household income is $92,188, which is above national average. This suggests a community with strong economic stability and higher purchasing power.
Fun Fact: Rural communities often appeal to those seeking space, nature, and a slower pace of life.
Housing & Rent
Median Home Value
$402,200
Above Average Market
Est. Monthly Rent
$1,609
Typical 2-3BR
Market Overview
The housing market in ZIP 96781 is competitive market with strong appreciation. With a median home value of $402,200, this area represents a premium investment in a sought-after location.
Rent vs Buy
Renting in this ZIP code typically costs around $1,609/month for a 2-3 bedroom home. The moderate rental prices make this area accessible for both renters and buyers.
Jobs & Income
Median Household Income
$92,188
Per Year
Job Market
Papaikou offers a growing job market with opportunities primarily in agriculture, manufacturing, and local services. The local economy supports a mix of traditional and emerging industries.
Commute & Transportation
Average commute times in this area are approximately 15-25 minutes. Personal vehicles are essential, though traffic is generally light.
Schools Overview
School Quality
ZIP code 96781 in Papaikou, HI generally features quality schools with diverse offerings. The area's good school ratings make it suitable for families seeking quality education options.
Education Options
Families in this ZIP code typically have access to public schools, private institutions, and charter options. Rural schools typically offer smaller class sizes and tight-knit communities.
Is ZIP 96781 a Good Place to Live?
Whether ZIP code 96781 in Papaikou, HI is right for you depends on your priorities. Here's a balanced look:
Pros
- ✓Peaceful environment with outdoor space
- ✓Strong economic stability
- ✓High-value, appreciating properties
Cons
- ⚠Limited access to urban amenities
The Bottom Line
ZIP code 96781 is well-suited for individuals and families who value tranquility, nature, and a tight-knit community. Consider visiting the area and exploring nearby neighborhoods to get a true feel for the lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay Updated
Subscribe to receive ZIP code insights and housing market trends