Hawaii County offers building opportunities in Big Island, though flood risk requires careful site selection.
📊52/100AcreScore
💰$15KLand $/acre
🏠$415KHome Value
👥200,629Population
📈+3.2%Growth (10yr)
🌊35%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️Tropical, warm year-round with volcanic terrainClimateZone 11a
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Hawaii County has local zoning regulations. Check with the county building department for specific rules on your parcel. Barndominiums may require conditional use permits in some zones.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Residential
Varies
⚠️ Conditional
Agricultural
None
✅ Yes
Commercial
Varies
❌ No
Hawaii County has local zoning. Contact the county building department for specific regulations.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Check Hawaii requirements — licensed subs are typically needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Hawaii County Building Department
Hilo, HI
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 35%. Hawaii County has significant FEMA flood zone coverage — careful site selection and flood insurance may be required. Check FEMA maps for your specific parcel.
35%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Affordable land market. At roughly $15,000 per acre, Hawaii County offers good value for builders looking for rural acreage.
$15K
Median $/acre
$415K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.93%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Hawaii County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Hawaii County sits in the heart of Big Island. Hilo is 0 min away. Hawaii has a state income tax — factor that into your cost-of-living calculations.
📈
Steady Community
A stable community with steady growth — less speculation, more authentic rural living.
🏠
Established Community
Zoning provides predictability — you know what your neighbors can and can't build. Good for long-term property value.
At a Glance
Population200,629
10-Year Growth+3.2%
County SeatHilo
State Income TaxYes
ClimateTropical, warm year-round with volcanic terrain (Zone 11a)
How Close Is Everything?
Hilo0 min
Hilo International5 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Hawaii County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Hilo. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageGood
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Hawaii County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Hawaii County?
Check with the Hawaii County Building Department for specific zoning rules on your parcel. Some zones allow barndominiums outright, others may require conditional use permits.
How much does land cost in Hawaii County?
Median price is approximately $15,000 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Hawaii County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Hawaii County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Hawaii County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.93%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Hawaii County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Hawaii, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.