This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in Hawaii
Nestled along the leeward coast of Oahu, Makaha, Hawaii, is a town that has long been overlooked by tourists and even many residents of the Aloha State. While Hawaii is often associated with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a laid-back lifestyle, Makaha is a community grappling with poverty, inequality, and a host of other challenges.
Some Other Cities:
| City | Median Home Value | Median Household Income | Unemployment Rate | Poverty Rate | Violent Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makaha | 500000 | 50000 | 10 | 30 | 20 |
| Honolulu | 750000 | 80000 | 5 | 15 | 10 |
| Hilo | 400000 | 60000 | 7 | 20 | 15 |
| Kailua Kona | 600000 | 70000 | 6 | 25 | 12 |
| Lihue | 550000 | 65000 | 8 | 22 | 18 |
A Town Facing Economic Hardship
The high cost of living is exacerbated by the limited job opportunities in Makaha. The unemployment rate is significantly higher than the state average, and many residents are forced to commute to other parts of the island for work. This can add hours to their daily commute and make it difficult to balance work and family life.
Poverty and Inequality Plagues the Community
As a result of the high cost of living and limited job opportunities, poverty is rampant in Makaha. The poverty rate is over 30%, significantly higher than the state average. This means that over one-third of the residents of Makaha live below the poverty line and struggle to make ends meet.
Poverty has a ripple effect throughout the community, affecting everything from access to education and healthcare to overall quality of life. Children growing up in poverty are more likely to drop out of school, experience health problems, and have difficulty finding employment as adults.
Safety Concerns and Limited Amenities
Makaha also has a higher crime rate than most other cities in Hawaii. The violent crime rate is more than double the state average, and residents often feel unsafe in their own community.
In addition to its economic and social challenges, Makaha also lacks many of the amenities that are taken for granted in other parts of Hawaii. There are few grocery stores, restaurants, or healthcare facilities in the community, and residents often have to travel long distances to access basic necessities.
A Community in Need of Support
Despite the challenges it faces, Makaha is a community with a strong sense of identity and pride. Residents are resilient and resourceful, and they have come together to support one another in the face of adversity.
However, Makaha cannot overcome its challenges alone. The state and federal government need to invest in the community, providing resources for job training, education, and affordable housing. Additionally, businesses and non-profit organizations can play a role in supporting the community by providing employment opportunities, funding community programs, and donating to local charities.
Conclusion
Makaha is a town that is often overlooked, but it is a community that deserves our attention and support. By addressing the challenges of poverty, inequality, and lack of amenities, we can help Makaha become a more thriving and livable community for all of its residents.
FAQ’s
What is Makaha, Hawaii?
Makaha, Hawaii is a census-designated place (CDP) located on the west coast of the island of O’ahu. It is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and laid-back lifestyle.
What are the challenges facing Makaha?
Makaha faces a number of challenges, including poverty, inequality, and a lack of amenities. The median home value in Makaha is over $500,000, while the median household income is only around $50,000. This makes it difficult for many residents to afford to live in their own community. Additionally, Makaha has a limited job market, with unemployment rates significantly higher than the state average. Many residents of Makaha are forced to commute to other parts of the island for work. Finally, Makaha lacks many of the amenities that are taken for granted in other parts of Hawaii. There are few grocery stores, restaurants, or healthcare facilities in the community, and residents often have to travel long distances to access basic necessities.
What is being done to address these challenges?
The state and federal government have invested in Makaha in recent years, providing resources for job training, education, and affordable housing. Additionally, businesses and non-profit organizations have played a role in supporting the community by providing employment opportunities, funding community programs, and donating to local charities.
What can I do to help Makaha?
There are a number of things you can do to help Makaha, including donating to local charities, volunteering your time, or supporting businesses that are owned and operated by residents of Makaha. You can also contact your elected officials and urge them to support policies that help Makaha overcome its challenges.
What is the future of Makaha?
The future of Makaha is uncertain. However, the community is working hard to overcome its challenges and create a better future for its residents. With the help of the state, federal government, businesses, and non-profit organizations, Makaha has the potential to become a thriving and livable community.
