Honolulu
Branches located in Hawaii
About Honolulu, Hawaii
Welcome to Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-renowned beaches. Situated on the island of Oahu, Honolulu is a cosmopolitan city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. From the historic landmarks of Pearl Harbor to the majestic hikes of Diamond Head, Honolulu provides a plethora of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Discover the aloha spirit and the diverse cultural tapestry that make Honolulu a truly special place to call home.
Average Home Price in Honolulu
The average home price in Honolulu, HI, is approximately $700,000.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in Hawaii
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Hawaii State Veterans Home
Hawaii offers long-term care services for veterans in the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home in Hilo, providing a range of services from nursing to specialized care for veterans and their spouses.
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Hawaii Veteran Financial Benefits
Veterans in Hawaii may be eligible for various financial benefits, including state tax exemptions on certain veteran benefits, special vehicle registration rates, and property tax exemptions.
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Hawaii Veteran Employment Benefits
The state provides veterans with employment support and resources, including priority service in job referrals and training programs, as well as veterans' preference in state government employment.
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Hawaii Veteran Education Benefits
Veterans and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers at University of Hawaii system schools, ensuring access to higher education opportunities.
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Hawaii Veteran Recreation Benefits
Veterans in Hawaii can enjoy discounted rates at state parks, golf courses, and other recreational facilities, acknowledging their service with opportunities for relaxation and leisure.
Honolulu Neighborhoods and Surrounding Areas
Honolulu is a mosaic of distinctive neighborhoods, each offering unique characteristics and a sense of community. From the historic charm of Downtown to the serene landscapes of Manoa, explore what makes each area special:
- Waikiki: Known globally for its iconic beaches, Waikiki is the heart of Hawaii's tourism. This bustling neighborhood is filled with world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a vibrant place to live with a plethora of high-rise condos offering spectacular ocean views.
- Manoa: Nestled in a lush valley with rainbows frequenting its skies, Manoa is home to the University of Hawaii. Its residential streets are lined with historic homes and offer a serene, cooler climate compared to other parts of Honolulu, thanks to its proximity to the mountains.
- Kaka'ako: This rapidly evolving neighborhood is becoming Honolulu's modern urban center, blending residential high-rises with innovative commercial spaces. Kaka'ako is known for its colorful street art, trendy boutiques, and the popular Salt at Our Kaka'ako complex, which hosts a variety of local shops and eateries.
- Hawaii Kai: Developed by Henry J. Kaiser in the 1960s, Hawaii Kai is a planned community known for its marina lifestyle, offering a range of water activities. The area boasts a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with shopping centers and dining options catering to every need.
- Kapahulu: Bordering Waikiki, Kapahulu is a lively area known for its unique blend of local eateries, shops, and residential options. It provides easy access to both the hustle and bustle of city life and the tranquility of Diamond Head and nearby beaches.
- Ala Moana: Famous for the Ala Moana Center, the world's largest open-air shopping center, this neighborhood offers luxury condominiums with amenities that rival five-star resorts, adjacent to the expansive Ala Moana Beach Park.
- Kaimuki: A historic neighborhood with a small-town feel, Kaimuki is known for its classic bungalows, specialty boutiques, and some of the best dining options in Honolulu, offering a taste of local flavors and international cuisine.
- Kahala: Kahala is one of Honolulu's most affluent neighborhoods, featuring luxurious homes and estates. Known for its wide, sandy beaches and the prestigious Kahala Hotel & Resort, it's a haven of tranquility and opulence.
- Palolo: A residential valley adjacent to Kaimuki, Palolo is characterized by its working-class homes and tight-knit community. The area offers stunning views of the valley and is known for its diverse population and small-town vibe within the city.
- Nuuanu: Nuuanu is located just north of Downtown Honolulu and is rich in history and natural beauty, featuring lush landscapes and elegant homes, many of which are of historical significance. The area is cooler and offers a peaceful retreat from the urban center.
- Downtown Honolulu: The historical and commercial heart of the city, Downtown Honolulu is a blend of the island's past and present, with significant landmarks like Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha statue, alongside modern business and government buildings.
- Chinatown: Honolulu's Chinatown is one of the oldest in the United States, offering a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, arts, markets, and some of the city's most adventurous dining and nightlife.
- Makiki: Situated between Downtown and Manoa, Makiki is a densely populated area known for its older condo buildings and single-family homes, providing a more affordable option for city living with proximity to schools and amenities.
- Moiliili: Moiliili is a historic neighborhood with a diverse community, known for its mix of residential and commercial properties. The area is home to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, adding a youthful energy to the community.
- Salt Lake: Named after the extinct volcanic crater (Aliamanu Crater) that forms a part of the neighborhood, Salt Lake is a residential area known for its numerous high-rise condos, townhouses, and single-family homes, offering a suburban feel with ample amenities.
- Aiea: Located west of Honolulu, Aiea offers panoramic views of Pearl Harbor and the southern shores of Oahu. The neighborhood is family-friendly with a mix of older and newer homes, and is known for the popular Pearlridge Shopping Center.
- Pearl City: A suburban area with a variety of housing options, from older plantation-style homes to newer developments. Pearl City is well-established, offering numerous parks, schools, and shopping centers.
- Waialae - Kahala: Waialae - Kahala is known for its luxury properties, golf course, and proximity to some of Honolulu's most prestigious schools. The neighborhood offers a quiet, upscale environment with beautiful beachfront homes and well-manicured streets.
- Mililani: Located in Central Oahu, Mililani is a planned community known for its high quality of life, community amenities, and well-maintained neighborhoods. It's a popular choice for families looking for suburban comfort.
- Waipahu: Waipahu is a historic plantation town that has evolved into a residential community with diverse housing options, rich cultural heritage, and convenient access to shopping and dining.
- Ewa Beach: Ewa Beach is a rapidly growing area known for its newer developments, golf courses, and access to beaches. The neighborhood offers a mix of affordable and upscale housing options with a strong sense of community.
- Kapolei: Known as "Oahu's Second City," Kapolei is a master-planned community with a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial developments. It's an emerging urban center with a growing number of amenities and job opportunities.
- Kaneohe: Located on the Windward side of Oahu, Kaneohe is known for its lush landscapes, stunning views of the Koolau Mountains, and access to Kaneohe Bay. The neighborhood offers a mix of residential properties, from single-family homes to condos.
- Kailua: A beach town known for its laid-back lifestyle, Kailua offers some of the best beaches in Hawaii, along with a vibrant town center filled with local boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Waimanalo: A small, rural community on the Windward coast, Waimanalo is known for its local charm, agricultural lands, and beautiful beaches. It offers a quieter way of life, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
These neighborhoods, each with their own distinct flavor and lifestyle, contribute to the rich tapestry that makes Honolulu not just a tourist destination, but a diverse and vibrant place to live.
Military in Honolulu
Honolulu is a significant military hub in the Pacific, hosting several key installations that play crucial roles in national defense and provide support to service members and their families:
- Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam: Situated about 8 miles west of Downtown Honolulu, this joint base is a central military facility combining U.S. Naval operations and Air Force activities. It serves as a primary base for the U.S. Pacific Fleet and offers comprehensive amenities, including housing, healthcare, and family support services.
- Fort Shafter: Located approximately 4 miles northwest of Honolulu's city center, Fort Shafter has been the senior Army headquarters in Hawaii since 1907. It is the home base for the U.S. Army Pacific Command, the Army Corps of Engineers Pacific Ocean Division, and other significant units, providing key administrative and operational support.
- Tripler Army Medical Center: Just about 6 miles from downtown Honolulu, Tripler is one of the largest military medical facilities in the Pacific region. Known for its distinct pink coral buildings, it offers a full range of medical services to military personnel and their families.
- Camp H.M. Smith: Located approximately 10 miles northeast of Honolulu in Halawa Heights, Camp H.M. Smith is the headquarters of the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM). It also houses the Marine Forces Pacific, providing critical operational capabilities in the region.
The presence of these installations underscores Honolulu's strategic importance to U.S. military operations in the Pacific and offers a supportive environment for military personnel and their families living in the area.
Local Universities in Honolulu
- University of Hawaii at Manoa: The flagship campus of the University of Hawaii system, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Hawaii Pacific University: A private university known for its diverse student body and programs in business, nursing, and marine science.
- Chaminade University of Honolulu: A private Marianist university offering programs in the liberal arts, business, and education.
VA Home Loans in Honolulu with MHS Lending
With its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community, Honolulu offers an appealing lifestyle for veterans and military families. MHS Lending is here to assist with navigating the Honolulu real estate market through VA Home Loan services, ensuring veterans can find their ideal home in this Pacific paradise.
Partnering with MHS Lending in Honolulu provides:
- Expertise in Local Real Estate: Our deep understanding of Honolulu's housing market and neighborhoods ensures you find a home that meets your needs and preferences.
- Specialized VA Loan Support: Our focus on VA Loans simplifies the home buying process, providing you with knowledgeable guidance and support.
- Commitment to Veterans: Our dedication to serving those who have served our country is at the forefront of our mission, ensuring a personalized and respectful home buying experience.
Explore the opportunities for homeownership in Honolulu with MHS Lending. Let us guide you through the benefits of VA Home Loans and help you secure your dream home in Hawaii's capital. Get Started Now.
