Makaha, HI Crime Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Crime in Makaha, HI

Is Makaha, HI safe in 2026?

Makaha presents a mixed safety picture that residents and visitors should understand clearly. With a poverty rate of 34.5% — significantly higher than the national average — and an unemployment rate of 10.2%, the community faces economic pressures that correlate with elevated property crime activity. That said, Makaha's tight-knit, roughly 10,087-person community and its coastal culture foster strong neighborhood accountability. Property crimes such as vehicle theft and burglary are the most commonly reported incident types, while violent crime remains comparatively less frequent. Using the Makaha crime map regularly and staying connected with neighbors are the most effective ways to stay safe day-to-day.

What is the crime rate in Makaha, HI?

Makaha's crime profile is shaped heavily by its socioeconomic context. The area carries a poverty rate of 34.5% and a 10.2% unemployment rate against a median household income of just $51,278 — factors that research consistently links to higher property crime prevalence. Property offenses, including theft and vehicle break-ins, represent the dominant share of reported incidents in the area. Violent crimes account for a smaller proportion of total incidents but are not absent. Compared to densely populated urban cores on Oahu, Makaha's population density of 1,447 people per square mile keeps overall incident volumes moderate, though the per-capita rate warrants attention given the community's size.

What are the safest and most at-risk areas within Makaha?

Within Makaha, areas closer to Makaha Beach Park and the established residential corridors along Farrington Highway tend to benefit from higher foot traffic and community visibility, which naturally deters opportunistic crime. Residential pockets further inland, particularly those with higher vacancy rates or limited street lighting, see a disproportionate share of property crime reports. Vehicle theft and theft from vehicles are especially prevalent near beach access points where tourists and day visitors leave valuables unattended. Residents near Makaha Valley report sporadic disturbance and drug-related incidents. No single block is uniformly safe or unsafe — the crime map heat layers are the best tool for identifying current hotspot concentrations block by block.

What types of crime are most common in Makaha?

Based on available incident data for the Makaha area, property crimes dominate the overall crime mix by a wide margin. Theft-related offenses — including shoplifting, vehicle theft, and theft from motor vehicles — collectively make up the largest share of reported incidents. Burglary represents a meaningful secondary category, particularly targeting unoccupied residences. Substance-related offenses account for a notable slice of police activity, consistent with the area's 34.5% poverty rate and limited economic opportunity. Assault and disturbance calls represent a smaller but real portion of incidents, with frequency tending to rise during evening hours and on weekends. Vandalism and trespassing round out the most commonly filed report types.

Is Makaha a good place to live considering its crime and cost of living?

Makaha offers genuine value on paper — a median home value of $360,574 and median rent of $1,534 are comparatively accessible for an Oahu community with direct beach access. However, prospective residents should weigh those numbers against a 34.5% poverty rate and 10.2% unemployment rate, both of which are substantially above state and national benchmarks. These economic conditions contribute to a crime environment where property crime vigilance is necessary. For buyers or renters who work remotely, are retired, or have secured employment, Makaha's natural setting and community character can outweigh the challenges. Those dependent on local job markets may find the 10.2% unemployment rate a significant obstacle. Overall, Makaha earns strong marks for lifestyle and affordability but requires realistic expectations about economic conditions and property security.

How does Makaha's poverty rate affect its crime levels?

The connection is direct and well-documented in criminology research. Makaha's 34.5% poverty rate — more than double the national average — creates conditions where property crime rates rise as economic desperation increases. With a median household income of $51,278 serving a community where over one-third of residents fall below the poverty line, income inequality within the area is significant. This gap is reflected in the crime incident breakdown: property crimes (theft, burglary, vehicle theft) far outnumber violent crimes, which is the pattern typical of economically stressed communities rather than those with high rates of organized or gang violence. Addressing poverty and unemployment is widely regarded as the most durable long-term strategy for reducing Makaha's overall crime rate.

What safety precautions should visitors to Makaha take in 2026?

Visitors to Makaha should treat vehicle security as a top priority — theft from parked cars near beach access points is among the most frequently reported incident types in the area. Never leave valuables visible in a parked vehicle, even for short periods. Be aware that Makaha Beach Park and surrounding lots have historically appeared on crime heat maps as elevated-activity zones. During evening hours, stick to well-lit, populated areas and travel in groups when possible. Engaging respectfully with the local community goes a long way — Makaha residents take pride in their neighborhood and generally look out for one another and for considerate visitors. Report any suspicious activity to the Honolulu Police Department's non-emergency line rather than attempting to intervene directly.