Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii on the island of Oahu, provides a blend of island traditions and modern living. Living in Honolulu means enjoying extraordinary perks. Proximity to stunning beaches provides endless opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing, while lush hiking trails offer beautiful panoramic views.
You will have your pick of neighborhood options, from high-rise condos in downtown to the quieter, tree-lined streets in suburbia. Read on to discover the most affordable neighborhoods in this island paradise!
1. Manoa
5. Kakaako
Manoa
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Honolulu: $1,706/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Manoa: $1,341/month
- Median Home List Price in Manoa: $1.425M
Manoa is like a hidden gem tucked between verdant mountains. This peaceful residential neighborhood is steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to the native Hawaiian community who valued its fertile lands for agriculture. Later, it became a hub of sugarcane farming before transforming into the enclave it is today. The University of Hawaii at Manoa also calls this neighborhood home, adding layers of academic history and lively energy to its otherwise serene ambiance.
Things to do in Manoa
The breathtaking Manoa Falls Trail is a must-see—for an easy yet rewarding hike, it leads you through a lush rainforest ending at a stunning 150-foot waterfall. Alternatively, spend a morning at the Lyon Arboretum, exploring its miles of walking paths and diverse botanical gardens on nearly 200 acres.
For a touch of local culture, visit the weekly Manoa Marketplace Farmers’ Market, where you can sample fresh poke and pick up tropical fruits grown just miles away. And on those rare rainy Manoa afternoons, cozy up at Morning Glass Coffee for a cup of locally roasted coffee and a hearty cheddar biscuit.
Transportation
While driving is a popular option, the neighborhood maintains a pedestrian-friendly layout, with many parks, shops, and restaurants within walking distance. The area’s city bus system, TheBus, has multiple stops in the neighborhood, connecting Manoa to major hubs across Oahu.
Nuuanu-Punchbowl
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Honolulu: $1,706/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Nuuanu-Punchbowl: $1,327/month
- Median Home List Price in Nuuanu-Punchbowl: $782,500
The Nuuanu-Punchbowl neighborhood, situated just minutes from downtown Honolulu, takes its name from two defining landmarks: Nuuanu Valley, a lush corridor leading into the mountains, and Punchbowl Crater, an extinct volcanic tuff cone that now houses the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.
Walk its tree-lined streets, and you’ll see a blend of classic plantation-style homes with spacious lanais alongside carefully restored mid-century gems and sleek, modern builds. For those who appreciate architectural details, the neighborhood also houses a few historic residences reminiscent of Hawaii’s royal past, adding another layer of charm.
Things to do in Nuuanu-Punchbowl
History buffs can visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, a solemn yet breathtakingly beautiful site with sweeping views of Honolulu. For outdoor enthusiasts, Nuuanu Valley is home to lush hiking trails like the Judd Trail or the Pali Lookout, both showcasing Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty.
Nearby cultural attractions like Queen Emma Summer Palace offer a peek into Hawaiian monarchy history. After exploring, invigorate your taste buds at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue with a plate of chicken katsu!
Transportation
Commuting from Nuuanu-Punchbowl is simple and convenient. The neighborhood is a short drive away from downtown Honolulu. TheBus provides multiple transit routes throughout the area. Cyclists will appreciate the growing network of bike-friendly streets, and with easy access to highways like H-1 and Pali Highway, reaching other parts of the island is a breeze.
McCully-Moiliili
McCully-Moiliili is a lively neighborhood located just southeast of downtown Honolulu. The area’s name reflects its origins, honoring two distinct influences. McCully is named after Judge Lawrence McCully, a prominent 19th-century figure in Hawaii’s judicial system, while Moiliili traces back to Hawaiian roots, meaning “pebble” or “small stone,” a reference to the area's once-abundant coral and limestone formations.
Things to do in McCully-Moiliili
The annual Moiliili Summer Fest lights up the neighborhood each July with food, crafts, and live entertainment, making it a can’t-miss event for locals. The annual Mochi Fair at the KoKo Marina Center celebrates all things mochi each August. For shopping enthusiasts, Ala Moana Center, one of the world’s largest outdoor malls, is just a quick hop away and features everything from high-end brands to local boutiques, as well as a daily hula show.
Transportation
McCully-Moiliili’s central location means that many residents can walk or bike to nearby attractions or workplaces. For longer commutes, TheBus has several routes that make stops in the area, linking residents to destinations like Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, and the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Downtown Honolulu
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Honolulu: $1,706/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown Honolulu: $1,703/month
- Median Home List Price in Downtown Honolulu: $560,000
Downtown Honolulu is an historic district holds a significant place in the islands’ story, dating back to the days of the Hawaiian monarchy when it served as the political and economic center.
Landmarks like Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, tells tales of the royal family and pivotal events in Hawaiian history. Today, downtown continues to thrive as the core of Honolulu’s business and government activity, blending its past with the pulse of contemporary life.
Things to do in Downtown Honolulu
Art patrons will enjoy exploring the Honolulu Museum of Art and the Hawaii State Art Museum, both showcasing collections that highlight Hawaii’s unique creative spirit. Grab a 2.5-hour walking tour through the Chinatown Historic District and uncover an exciting food scene, bars, and local boutiques.
Spend an afternoon at the serene Foster Botanical Garden or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront at Aloha Tower Marketplace, where you can enjoy ocean views, casual dining, and monthly events. Downtown also hosts regular events like First Friday art walks and farmers’ markets, keeping the calendar packed with community fun.
Transportation
Getting around from downtown Honolulu is a breeze, with convenient commuting options. Thanks to its central location, many workplaces, shops, and attractions are within walking distance. Major roadways like the H-1 Freeway and Nimitz Highway provide quick connections to other neighborhoods on the island. Public transit is also easily accessible, with TheBus offering extensive routes across Oahu right from downtown stops.
Kakaako
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Honolulu: $1,706/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Kakaako: $2,010/month
- Median Home List Price in Kakaako: $835,000
Kakaako, once an industrial hub, has become one of Honolulu’s most dynamic neighborhoods with innovative city living. Historically, this coastal area served as a salt pond region for native Hawaiians and later transitioned into a central industrial zone during the 20th century. The name "Kakaako" reflects its Hawaiian roots, thought to mean “place of the young taro shoots,” a nod to its agricultural past.
The architecture in Kakaako is a fascinating mix of the old and new. You’ll find sleek, high-rise condominiums boasting glass facades and state-of-the-art designs coexisting with revitalized warehouses turned into trendy restaurants, shops, and studios. Murals splashed across building walls have become a defining characteristic of the area, making every walk through Kakaako feel like a visit to an open-air gallery.
Things to do in Kakaako
Kakaako is packed with things to do and see, making it ideal for renters craving excitement and variety. If you’re a fan of events, Kakaako hosts farmers' markets, outdoor movie nights, and community gatherings that keep the neighborhood buzzing year-round.
The waterfront Kakaako Waterfront Park offers sprawling green spaces perfect for picnics, jogging, or simply soaking in stunning ocean views. At the SALT at Our Kakaako complex, you’ll find 85,000 square feet of retail space filled with a lively mix of boutique shops, artisanal eateries, and local breweries.
Transportation
Walking or biking is a breeze, aided by the area’s well-planned pedestrian pathways. TheBus system offers multiple routes connecting Kakaako to the rest of the island, while major thoroughfares like Ala Moana Boulevard and Ward Avenue make driving straightforward.
Honolulu offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern conveniences. From soaking up the sun on world-famous beaches, exploring the local arts scene, or enjoying the perks of a thriving oasis, the city has something for everyone. So, why wait? Start exploring rentals in Honolulu today!
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s June 2025 reports
