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Ward Research: Hawaii needs about 64,490 housing units by 2027; DHHL-eligible need estimated at 8,508 units
Summary
Ward Research presented the 2024 Hawaii housing planning study showing a statewide shortage of roughly 64,490 units by 2027, heavy demand at lower income levels, low vacancy and large seasonal/vacation rental stock; DHHL-eligible households account for 8,508 unit need by 2027.
Becky Soon of Ward Research summarized the 2024 Hawaii housing planning study, which was fielded in 2023. The study estimates a statewide shortfall of approximately "64,490 units that are needed by 2027," with about 64% of that need concentrated among households earning 80% of area median income or below. Soon emphasized affordability gaps: she said the housing wage is roughly "41.83 per hour" while average wages are approximately "$24 per hour," producing a large affordability gap.
Soon detailed tight market indicators: an estimated 4% vacancy rate, an estimated 35,000 units used as short- or long-term vacation rentals, and a net outflow figure — "about 214 residents are leaving Hawaii every single day due to housing costs." Regarding DHHL-specific demand, the study estimates 8,508 units are needed for DHHL-eligible households by 2027; many eligible families are not on DHHL’s wait list, and nearly two-thirds of that eligible group earn 80% AMI or less. Soon noted high rates of cost burden and overcrowding among eligible households and urged use of the study to inform program and policy choices.
