Crime rates in Waipahu are higher than the national average. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Waipahu had a violent crime rate of 485 per 100,000 people in 2020. This is significantly higher than the national violent crime rate of 399 per 100,000 people. Property crime rates in Waipahu are also high, with a rate of 4,847 per 100,000 people in 2020. This is more than twice the national property crime rate of 2,220 per 100,000 people.
The median household income in Waipahu is $83,671, which is lower than the state median household income of $92,123. This means that Waipahu residents have a lower median income than the average Hawaiian resident. The poverty rate in Waipahu is also higher than the state average, with 10.8% of residents living below the poverty line in 2020. This is compared to the state poverty rate of 8.8%.
Despite these challenges, Waipahu is still a home to many people who love the city’s unique culture and community spirit. The city is also home to a number of parks and recreation facilities, as well as a variety of businesses and restaurants.
Here is a summary of the factors that contribute to Waipahu’s livability challenges:
Crime Rates
Waipahu has a relatively high crime rate, particularly property crimes. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Waipahu had a violent crime rate of 485 per 100,000 people in 2020. This is significantly higher than the national violent crime rate of 399 per 100,000 people. Property crime rates in Waipahu are also high, with a rate of 4,847 per 100,000 people in 2020. This is more than twice the national property crime rate of 2,220 per 100,000 people.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Waipahu is relatively high. The median home price in Waipahu is $720,000, which is significantly higher than the state median home price of $635,700. Rent is also expensive, with the median rent for a two-bedroom apartment being $2,300 per month. This is higher than the state median rent of $2,100 per month.
Job Opportunities
Job opportunities in Waipahu are relatively limited. The unemployment rate in Waipahu is 7.5%, which is higher than the national unemployment rate of 3.5%. There are also few high-paying jobs available. The median household income in Waipahu is $83,671, which is lower than the state median household income of $92,123.
Amenities
Waipahu lacks amenities that are often found in larger cities. There are few museums, theaters, or other cultural attractions. The city also has a limited number of parks and green spaces.
These factors can make it challenging for some residents to live a comfortable and fulfilling life in Waipahu. However, it’s important to note that these challenges are not insurmountable. There are efforts underway to address crime rates, improve the economy, and enhance the city’s amenities. Additionally, Waipahu has many positive qualities, such as its strong sense of community and its rich cultural heritage.
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