2

Studio Apartments for Rent in Keaau, HI

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  • /13

    $1,800 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • 480 Sq Ft
    • New modern studio with one bath

    15-1510-1510 14th Ave, Keaau, HI 96749

    Step into this bright and thoughtfully designed studio, offering the perfect blend of modern comfort and cozy charm. Built in 2025, this partially furnished space feels fresh, stylish, and ready to enjoy from day one. Clean lines, contemporary finishes, and an efficient layout make it easy to settle in and make the space your own.Large windows bring in natural light, creating an airy

    15-1510-1510 14th Ave, Keaau, HI 96749
  • /28

    $1,695 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • 700 Sq Ft
    • Pet-Friendly Furnished Studio in HPP | Fenced Yard Area

    15-1907-1550 22nd Ave, Keaau, HI 96749

    15-1907-1550 22nd Ave, Keaau, HI 96749

Why Live in Keaau

Keaau, located on the eastern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a growing suburb of Hilo. Known for its relative affordability, Keaau attracts residents with its large lots that provide space for hobby farms. Housing styles in Keaau include bungalows, plantation-style residences, and ranch-style homes, with many properties featuring low-pitched roofs that drain into catchment tanks. The community has a lower crime risk compared to the national average. Keaau features several county parks, such as Kurtistown Park and Herbert Shipman Park. They offer various recreational facilities like ball fields, skate ramps, and pickleball courts. The nearly 3-mile Puna Historic Trail leads to Haena Beach, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is about 20 miles west. Keaau's main commercial district has grocery stores such as Foodland and Keaau Filipino Food Mart, along with pharmacies and a hardware store. Dining options include roadside takeout stands and Kaleo’s Bar & Grill, which hosts live music. Nearby Pahoa offers a walkable downtown with eateries and shops, while Hilo provides an indoor mall and big-box stores. The weekly Makuu Farmers Market is just south of the community, and the annual Hawaii Island All Nations Powwow takes place in Keaau. State Route 130 connects the area to Hilo, approximately 15 miles away, though rush-hour traffic can make the commute take around an hour. Residents should stay prepared for environmental hazards such as volcanic eruptions and typhoons. Disaster notifications are available through the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Keaau, HI?
The median rent for a home in Keaau, HI is $2,500 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, townhouses tend to be the most affordable option while condos and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Keaau, HI?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Keaau, HI, a household needs to earn roughly $100,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $2,500 per month in Keaau, HI, renters typically need to show $7,500 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Keaau, HI?
In Keaau, HI, the price-to-rent ratio is 17.0, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
2
Median Rent
$2,500
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,500
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,800
Median Condo Rent
$2,179
How to Rent a Home