Construction Costs in Kailua-Kona, HI 2026

Estimate renovation and building costs in Kailua-Kona. Local labor rates average $51.03/hr with a material cost index of 172.

$51.03

Avg Labor Rate/hr

172

Material Cost Index

$747,000

Avg Home Price

172.1

Cost of Living Index

Kailua-Kona Overview

Population

14,627

Climate Zone

Very Hot-Humid (Zone 1)

Seismic Risk

moderate

Median Household Income

$75,900

Kailua-Kona Remodeling Cost Estimator

Leave blank for typical kitchen remodel size

Cost Breakdown

Materials$36,120
Labor$26,195
Permits (4%)$2,493

Estimated Total Cost

$64,808

Mid-range Kitchen Remodel280 sq ft in Kailua-Kona

Materials

$36,120

56% of total

Labor

$26,195

40% of total

Permits

$2,493

~$1,434 avg

73% Above National Average

The same kitchen remodel at the national average would cost approximately $37,492. Kailua-Kona has higher-than-average construction costs due to local demand and cost of living.

View Hawaii Statewide Costs

Compare Kailua-Kona costs with the Hawaii state average and other cities.

Project Cost Comparison: Kailua-Kona vs National Average

Project TypeKailua-Kona AverageNational AverageDifference
Kitchen Remodel$71,921$35,000+105%
Bathroom Remodel$25,356$18,000+41%
Roof Replacement$20,768$15,000+38%
Whole House Paint$5,942$3,800+56%
Flooring Install$8,163$7,000+17%
Deck Build$13,605$12,000+13%

Material Prices in Kailua-Kona

Concrete

$186 /cubic yard

$55 below the estimated Hawaii average of $241/yd³

Lumber

$6.44 /board foot

$3.02 below the estimated Hawaii average of $9.46/BF

Popular Projects in Kailua-Kona

🏠

#1 Roof Replacement

Among the most requested projects by Kailua-Kona homeowners

🔨

#2 Hurricane Shutters

Among the most requested projects by Kailua-Kona homeowners

❄️

#3 HVAC Upgrade

Among the most requested projects by Kailua-Kona homeowners

Construction Cost Overview for Kailua-Kona, HI

Construction and renovation costs in Kailua-Kona, HI reflect the city's cost of living index of 172.1 and a material cost index of 172 (where 100 represents the national baseline). With an average construction labor rate of $51.03 per hour and a median home price of $747,000, homeowners in Kailua-Kona should plan their renovation budgets carefully using local pricing data.

Kailua-Kona sits in IECC Climate Zone 1 (Very Hot-Humid), which influences insulation requirements, HVAC sizing, and overall material choices for both new construction and remodeling projects. Moderate seismic risk — some reinforcement required. The median household income of $75,900 in Kailua-Kona means that a mid-range kitchen remodel at $71,921 represents approximately 95% of annual household income.

Building permits in Kailua-Kona average $1,434, varying by project scope and local building department requirements. Major renovations involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work require permits in virtually all Hawaii jurisdictions. Scheduling projects during off-peak seasons can save 5-15% on labor costs as contractors have greater availability.

Other Cities in Hawaii

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Kailua-Kona, HI?
A mid-range kitchen remodel in Kailua-Kona, HI costs approximately $71,921 on average. Budget renovations start around $50,345, while premium remodels with custom cabinetry and high-end appliances can reach $107,882 or more. Labor rates in Kailua-Kona average $51.03/hour for general construction work.
What is the average construction labor rate in Kailua-Kona?
Construction labor in Kailua-Kona, HI averages $51.03 per hour. This is 73% above the national average. Specialized trades like licensed electricians and master plumbers typically charge 25-45% more than general construction labor rates.
Do I need a building permit for home renovations in Kailua-Kona?
Most significant renovations in Kailua-Kona, HI require building permits. Permit costs average around $1,434 depending on project scope. Projects involving structural changes, electrical rewiring, plumbing modifications, or additions almost always require permits. Cosmetic updates like interior painting, replacing fixtures, or installing new flooring typically do not.
How does Kailua-Kona's cost of living affect construction costs?
Kailua-Kona has a cost of living index of 172.1 (national average = 100), which directly impacts construction costs. Higher cost of living means higher labor rates, material delivery costs, and permit fees. The material cost index in Kailua-Kona is 172, reflecting local supply chain dynamics and demand levels.
What are the most popular home improvement projects in Kailua-Kona?
The most popular construction and renovation projects in Kailua-Kona, HI include Roof Replacement, Hurricane Shutters, HVAC Upgrade. Kitchen remodels offer the highest ROI in Kailua-Kona at approximately 60-75% of cost recovery upon resale. Bathroom renovations and roof replacements are also top priorities for Kailua-Kona homeowners looking to increase property value.

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