What are the best neighborhoods for military families in Hawaii?

by | Mar 17, 2023

Military service members and their families have unique needs when it comes to finding the right neighborhood to live in Hawaii. They need to consider factors such as proximity to the military installation, school districts, safety, and amenities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods for military families in Hawaii.

Mililani

Located on the island of Oahu, Mililani is a popular choice for military families because of its proximity to Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield. It has a strong sense of community and a variety of amenities, including parks, golf courses, and shopping centers. The Mililani school district is also highly rated, making it a great option for families with children.

Ewa Beach

Another popular neighborhood on Oahu is Ewa Beach. It is located near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle. Ewa Beach has a mix of new and older homes, and there are many community events and activities throughout the year.

Makakilo

Makakilo is a peaceful and scenic neighborhood located on the slopes of the Waianae Mountains on Oahu. It is close to both Schofield Barracks and Pearl Harbor, making it a convenient location for military families. The neighborhood has a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, and there are many parks and hiking trails nearby.

Kapolei

Located on the west coast of Oahu, Kapolei is a growing community that is home to many military families. It is close to both Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Schofield Barracks, and has a variety of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. There are many shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options in Kapolei, making it a convenient place to live.

When choosing a neighborhood in Hawaii, military families should consider factors such as commute time, school districts, and community events. They should also consider the cost of living and whether the neighborhood is within their budget. Military families can also consult with their installation’s housing office or local real estate agents for guidance on finding the right neighborhood for them.

 In addition to finding the right neighborhood, military families should also be aware of the unique challenges of island living in Hawaii. For example, there may be limited access to certain goods and services, and shipping items to and from Hawaii can be expensive. Military families should plan accordingly and budget for these additional expenses.

Hawaii offers a variety of neighborhoods that are great options for military families. Mililani, Ewa Beach, Makakilo, and Kapolei are just a few examples of neighborhoods that offer convenient access to military installations, good schools, and community amenities. Consider factors such as commute time, safety, and cost of living when choosing a neighborhood in Hawaii, and be aware of the unique challenges of island living. 

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About the Author:

Colonel (Ret.) Bruce Jenkins

Colonel (Ret.) Bruce Jenkins is a veteran military leader, operational logistics expert, and the founder of TLA Hawaii. Over a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, including roles as a Garrison Commander and Base Camp Commander, Bruce specialized in large-scale human resources and military relocation logistics. Today, he channels his “Soldiers first, people always” mindset into TLA Hawaii, providing incoming service members and their families with the ultimate resource hub for a seamless, stress-free PCS transition to the Hawaiian Islands.