2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Kapaa, HI vs Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Carmel-by-the-Sea older or younger than people in Kapaa?
- The Median Age in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 19.0 years older than in Kapaa.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Kapaa?
- Carmel-by-the-Sea housing costs are 124.4% more expensive than Kapaa housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Kapaa?
- The average commute for residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea is 4.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Kapaa.

Things to do in Kapaa?
Located on the east side of Kauai Island within Hawaii's famous Garden Isle Kapaa is widely considered one of the best tourist destination spots due its variety of tropical beaches , lush rain forests , favorite surf spots and best Hawaiian poke places found all around town .

Things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Living in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA is like living in paradise. With its beautiful white sand beaches, stunning ocean views, and colorful gardens, it's easy to see why so many people are drawn to this picturesque city. Its unique shops, restaurants and galleries provide visitors with a unique shopping experience while its numerous parks and trails offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. The climate is mild year round, making it the perfect spot for vacationers or those looking for a permanent home. The quaint downtown area of Carmel-by-the-Sea provides a relaxed atmosphere that makes it one of the most desirable places to live on the Central Coast.

 Kapaa, HICarmel-by-the-Sea, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock3,296329,725,481
 Median Income$94,457  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock63.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$854,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time26.78  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Kapaa    4 Reviews

I have lived on Kaua'i, Hawai'i for about two years now, with about 20 years of prior vacationing (up to 1 month). Living here is much different than vacationing here,  More

   |    Reply

Over 7 years ago

My wife and I had the pleasure of visiting Kapaa in July of 2017. As tourists we found it a wonderful place. There were ample places to eat and shop for souvenirs.   More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

For many, Kapaa is considered middle of the island in a way. Whether you are going North or going South, Kapaa seems to be a great midway point. There are tons of  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Kapaa

Reviews for Carmel-By-The-Sea    3 Reviews

Over 9 years ago

Climate, cost &  More

   |    Reply

carmel has about 60 vacation homes and a dense cottage-y downtown. basically it is a tourist trap cental business district and a bunch of vacation rental homes. the  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Liberals have run me out of town. The political is so overwhelming I am looking to relocate. However, if you are an aging hippie with a great deal of money you will be  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Carmel-By-The-Sea


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.