What assisted living is called in Hawaii, what it costs, how Medicaid can help, how to check a community’s license and inspections, and who to call if something goes wrong. Every fact links to the official source.
The median cost of assisted living in Hawaii is $12,096 a month, above the national median of $6,200 (CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025, collected July to November 2025). Prices vary with the apartment, the level of care and the community, so ask each one for its current rate sheet, including care-level fees.
Plan with our free tools: how long will the money last? and home care or assisted living?
Medicare does not pay for assisted living. Families pay from savings and income, long-term care insurance, or benefits such as VA Aid and Attendance (estimate it). Who actually pays for long-term care.
Medicaid. Medicaid does not pay rent or meals in assisted living. Whether Hawaii Medicaid pays for care services in assisted living, and which communities accept it, is a question for the state Medicaid agency or your local Area Agency on Aging.
Look up a license. The State Licensing Section posts a PDF list of licensed assisted living facilities and a combined ARCH and Expanded ARCH vacancy report, sorted by area or by name. Search Hawaii’s records.4
Always visit in person, at a mealtime or in the evening if you can. Bring the tour scorecard and the 8 tour questions.
Complaints about care or conditions. Since August 1, 2026, complaints about licensed care facilities must be filed through OHCA's Kahua Ike public portal (portal.ohcaportal.doh.hawaii.gov/complaints). file online.1
Abuse, neglect or exploitation. Call (808) 832-5115. How to report.5 If someone is in danger, call 911.
The long-term care ombudsman is a free advocate for residents of assisted living and nursing homes: they help resolve problems with a community, including move-out notices. Call 1-888-229-2231 or find your local ombudsman.2
Assisted living by city
Every community and county in Hawaii
The median is $12,096 a month (CareScout Cost of Care Survey 2025), compared with $6,200 nationally.
Hawaii State Department of Health, Office of Health Care Assurance (OHCA), State Licensing Section.
Since August 1, 2026, complaints about licensed care facilities must be filed through OHCA's Kahua Ike public portal (portal.ohcaportal.doh.hawaii.gov/complaints).
The State Licensing Section posts a PDF list of licensed assisted living facilities and a combined ARCH and Expanded ARCH vacancy report, sorted by area or by name.
Facts checked against these official sources on September 28, 2026. Rules and programs change; confirm with the agency before making a decision. General information, not legal or financial advice.
A Lilisity advisor will send current prices for communities that fit your needs and budget. Free, no obligation.
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