Student Housing Near University of Hawaii at Hilo
Find verified off-campus housing near University of Hawaii at Hilo in Hilo, HI
About University of Hawaii at Hilo
Nestled on the Big Island of Hawaii, the University of Hawaii at Hilo offers an extraordinary educational experience where tropical paradise meets academic excellence. With an enrollment of just 2,260 students, this intimate public institution creates a close-knit community where meaningful student-faculty connections thrive. The university's accessible 90% admission rate welcomes diverse learners eager to pursue bachelor's and graduate degrees across innovative programs in marine science, agriculture, business, and education. What truly distinguishes UH Hilo is its unique position as a gateway to Hawaii's rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Students engage directly with indigenous Hawaiian traditions while conducting research in one of the world's most biodiverse environments. The surrounding Hilo community embraces a genuine aloha spirit, offering students authentic cultural immersion unavailable at mainland universities. Living near campus means waking up to volcanic landscapes, accessing pristine beaches within minutes, and participating in a vibrant local scene. The affordable cost of living compared to other Hawaiian islands, combined with the university's welcoming atmosphere, makes the area ideal for students seeking both academic growth and an unforgettable island lifestyle. Here, education transcends the classroom.
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- Public
- Highest Degree
- Graduate
- Setting
- Remote Town
- Retention Rate
- 70%
- ACT Median
- 19
- Accreditor
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
- Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Cost & Financial Aid
Annual tuition and estimated costs
University of Hawaii at Hilo's in-state tuition is relatively affordable, but housing costs in Hawaii are significantly higher than the national average, making overall affordability challenging for students. Combined with tuition, total first-year costs can exceed $25,000+ even with financial aid.
- ✓Explore on-campus housing options first, as university residence halls are typically cheaper than private rentals in Hilo
- ✓Consider shared housing arrangements with roommates to split rent and utilities, which can reduce individual housing costs by 30-50%
- ✓Look into nearby communities outside central Hilo for more affordable rental options while staying within reasonable commuting distance
- ✓Investigate whether your financial aid package covers housing costs, and inquire about work-study opportunities on campus to offset housing expenses
Living Near University of Hawaii at Hilo
# Housing Guide for University of Hawaii at Hilo Students Hilo's intimate, tree-lined neighborhoods offer a welcoming alternative to larger college towns. The area surrounding UH Hilo blends academic life with genuine local community, creating a relaxed island atmosphere perfect for students seeking a quieter lifestyle. Popular student neighborhoods include the Puainako area near campus, where affordable rentals cater specifically to UH Hilo residents. Kamehameha Avenue provides convenient proximity to downtown Hilo's restaurants and shops. The Wailulu and Kaumana neighborhoods offer more residential options with short commutes. Getting around is easy—most student housing lies within walking or biking distance of campus. The Hele-On bus system provides free transit for UH students with valid IDs, connecting neighborhoods throughout Hilo. Biking remains popular given the town's compact size and relatively flat terrain. Downtown Hilo offers diverse dining from local plate lunch spots to international cuisine, plus shopping at Prince Kuhio Plaza. The Farmer's Market and various coffee shops create natural gathering spaces. Hilo's tight-knit community means neighbors genuinely look out for one another. Though crime rates are low, standard precautions apply. Students consistently praise the town's safety and the genuine aloha spirit residents extend to the university community.
Other Housing Near University of Hawaii at Hilo
Tohbi Hale
Tohbi Hale is an apartment community located at 80 Olona St in Hilo, Hawaii, just 0.4 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. This proximity makes it a convenient housing option for students attending the university.
Student Housing
Student housing located at 200 W Kawili St in Hilo, Hawaii, situated 0.1 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. The property offers convenient access to campus facilities and academic buildings. Housing accommodations are available for students attending the university.
Hale Kanilehua Dorm
Hale Kanilehua Dorm is located at 605 W Lanikaula St in Hilo, Hawaii, just 0.2 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. This on-campus residence hall provides student housing accommodations for university students.
Hale Alahonua
Hale Alahonua is a student housing property located at 329 W Kawili St in Hilo, Hawaii, just 0.2 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. The residence provides convenient access to university facilities and the surrounding Hilo community.
Hale Haumana
Hale Haumana is a student housing property located at 1452 Kinoole St in Hilo, Hawaii, approximately 0.4 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. The residence provides convenient proximity to the university for enrolled students.
University Palms
University Palms is an apartment community located at 1377 Kapiolani Street in Hilo, Hawaii, just 0.2 miles from the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus. The property offers student housing options in close proximity to the university.
Adult Student Housing
Adult student housing located at 430 W Kawili St in Hilo, HI, situated 0.4 miles from University of Hawaii at Hilo. This apartment community provides residential options for graduate and adult students attending the university.
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