Ewa Gentry CDP: The Data Profile (2026)

Ewa Gentry CDP represents a distinct statistical outlier within the Hawaiian economic landscape. With a population of 26,738, it operates as a high-density suburban satellite to Honolulu, characterized by a median income of $131,755. This figure is 76.7% higher than the US median of $74,580, yet the educational attainment rate sits at 29.6%, trailing the national average of 33.1%. This discrepancy suggests a demographic heavily weighted toward skilled trades, military support roles, and local government employment rather than the tech or finance sectors typically associated with such high incomes.

The statistical target demographic is the "High-Earning Local Stabilizer." These are households earning between $120,000 and $180,000 who prioritize proximity to Honolulu job centers (via the H-1 freeway) over the isolation of the North Shore or the extreme luxury of Hawaii Kai. They are budget-conscious regarding the 143.7 housing index but have the capital to absorb the 189.9 healthcare and restaurant premiums.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living in Ewa Gentry is driven almost entirely by the 143.7 Housing Index and the staggering 189.9 Healthcare Index. While groceries and transportation hover near the national average at 106.9, the energy sector is a critical outlier. Electricity costs 42.86 cents/kWh, which is 167.9% higher than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh. This necessitates a rigorous budget for climate control.

Disposable Income Analysis:
To maintain a "comfortable" lifestyle defined as spending less than 30% of gross income on the above expenses, a single adult requires a gross annual salary of approximately $155,600. A family of four requires a combined income of $307,200. Given the local median income of $131,755, the average household is "cost-burdened" relative to national standards, spending closer to 35-40% of income on basic survival costs, leaving significantly less disposable income for investment compared to the mainland US.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Ewa Gentry is defined by a 143.7 index, making it 43.7% more expensive than the US average. The median home price reflects a premium for land in a constrained island environment. The Price per Square Foot is significantly inflated compared to the national curve.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
With a median home price of $875,000, the entry barrier is immense. However, the 3.4% mortgage rate environment of 2026 (post-Fed stabilization) keeps monthly payments competitive with renting. A 20% down payment ($175,000) is required to avoid PMI, locking out many first-time buyers. Renting a 3BR unit at $3,400 is financially superior for those without significant capital, as the opportunity cost of the $175,00 down payment (invested at 5% yield) offsets the mortgage interest savings. Buying is only recommended for those planning a stay of 10+ years to ride out the 43.7% premium volatility.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The economic stability of Ewa Gentry is robust but fragile regarding Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates. The unemployment rate is 2.2%, well below the US average of 4.0%, indicating a tight labor market. However, the 29.6% college education rate suggests the workforce is less mobile for high-end remote tech roles.

Commute & RTO Impact:
Ewa Gentry acts as a bedroom community for Honolulu. The average commute is 28 minutes covering 14 miles, heavily reliant on the H-1 Freeway. In a full RTO scenario, traffic congestion can extend this to 45-60 minutes. The cost of fuel and the 42.86 cents/kWh electricity cost make commuting expensive. Local industry is anchored by the military (Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam), construction, and retail services, providing stability but lower ceiling for wage growth compared to the tech sector.

Quality of Life Audit

Ewa Gentry offers a "High-Health, Low-Air" profile. The Health Score of 84.5/100 is exceptional, driven by low obesity (24.8% vs 31.9% US) and smoking rates (9.7% vs 14.0% US). However, the air quality is a significant concern due to trade winds trapping industrial and traffic particulates.

Safety & Environment:

• Air Quality: The AQI of 58 and PM2.5 of 12.1 µg/m³ are concerning. Residents are advised to use air filtration systems indoors, as levels exceed the EPA's annual standard of 9.0 µg/m³.
• Crime: Violent crime is 2.1 per 1,000 residents (210 per 100k), roughly 45% lower than the US average. Property crime is 22.5 per 1,000 (2,250 per 100k), roughly 5% higher than the US average, driven by residential theft.
• Schools: The student-teacher ratio is 16:1, slightly above the ideal 15:1 but adequate for the region.
• Weather: Average highs of 84°F and lows of 72°F. High humidity (70%+) year-round is a major factor for comfort and electricity usage.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Economic Stability: An unemployment rate of 2.2% ensures job security for residents in local industries.
• Health Profile: A health score of 84.5 and obesity rate of 24.8% indicate a physically active population compared to the mainland.
• Income Potential: Median income of $131,755 provides purchasing power, provided housing costs are managed.

Cons:

• Cost of Living: The 189.9 healthcare index and 42.86 cents/kWh electricity create a high fixed-cost floor that erodes the high median income.
• Housing Premium: A 108.3% premium over the national median home price makes wealth accumulation through real estate difficult.
• Air Quality: PM2.5 levels of 12.1 µg/m³ pose a long-term health risk, contradicting the "paradise" narrative.

Recommendation:
Ewa Gentry is recommended for military families, local government employees, and healthcare professionals who have secured the high local income tier. It is not recommended for retirees on fixed incomes due to the 189.9 healthcare index, nor for remote workers who can live anywhere, as the $875,000 housing cost buys a modest home compared to mainland markets.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Ewa Gentry in 2026?
A single adult needs a gross salary of $155,600 to keep housing and living costs under 30% of income. A family of four needs a combined $307,200.

2. How does the cost of living compare to the US average?
Overall, Ewa Gentry is 43.7% more expensive than the US average, driven almost entirely by a 143.7 Housing Index and 189.9 Healthcare Index.

3. Is Ewa Gentry safe?
Yes. Violent crime is 45% lower than the national average at 2.1 per 1,000 residents. However, property crime is slightly elevated at 5% above the national average.

4. When is the best time to move to Ewa Gentry?
The best time to move is September to November. This avoids the peak tourism season (winter) which drives up rental inventory costs and the peak hurricane season (August), reducing logistical risks.