Quick Answer: Yes, Mililani is widely considered one of the best places to live on Oahu. With top-rated schools, low crime rates, abundant parks and recreation centers, and a strong sense of community, Mililani consistently ranks among Hawaii's most desirable neighborhoods. The trade-off is a higher cost of living and a 35-50 minute commute to downtown Honolulu. For families, military personnel, and anyone seeking a suburban lifestyle with island charm, Mililani delivers.

Mililani shows up on almost every list of the best places to live in Hawaii, and for good reason. But no neighborhood is perfect, and as real estate agents who help people move here every week, we think you deserve an honest look at both the positives and the things to consider. Here is our unfiltered take on what it is really like to live in Mililani in 2026.

The Pros: What Makes Mililani Great

Top-Ranked Schools: Mililani schools consistently rank in the top 5% statewide. Mililani Ike Elementary is #2, Mililani Mauka Elementary is #3 with National Blue Ribbon status, and Mililani High School ranks #3 with a 95.2% graduation rate. For families with school-age kids, this alone makes Mililani worth serious consideration.

Safety and Low Crime: Mililani has one of the lowest crime rates on Oahu. The master-planned community layout, active neighborhood associations, and strong police presence create a safe environment for families. Many residents tell us they feel comfortable letting their kids bike to the park or walk to school.

Parks and Recreation: Mililani has five recreation centers (Rec 1 through Rec 5) offering pools, basketball courts, tennis courts, and community meeting spaces. The bike path network connects neighborhoods to schools, parks, and shopping areas. Mililani Golf Club provides an affordable golf option right in the community.

Community Feel: This is something you can not put a price on. Mililani has a genuine community atmosphere with block parties, holiday events, farmers markets, and rec center programs. Neighbors know each other, families look out for one another, and there is a shared pride in the neighborhood.

Convenient Location: Situated in Central Oahu with direct H-2 freeway access, Mililani puts you 30 minutes from the North Shore beaches, 35-50 minutes from downtown Honolulu, and 10-15 minutes from Schofield Barracks. Mililani Town Center provides Foodland, restaurants, and essential shopping without leaving the neighborhood.

The Cons: Things to Consider

The Commute: If you work in downtown Honolulu, plan on 35-50 minutes each way during rush hour. H-2 traffic can be heavy, especially between 6:30-8:30 AM heading toward Pearl City. This is the number one concern we hear from buyers considering Mililani.

Cost of Living: Housing prices are significant. The median single-family home in Mililani Town is $1,085,000, and even condos start in the $500,000 range. Groceries, utilities, and gas are all higher than mainland averages.

Limited Nightlife and Dining: Mililani is a suburban community. If you want trendy restaurants, nightlife, and walkable urban culture, you will need to drive to Honolulu or Kakaako. The dining options in Mililani are solid but limited to mostly casual eateries and plate lunch spots.

Older Housing Stock in Mililani Town: Many homes in the Town section were built in the 1970s-1990s. While many have been renovated, some still have original kitchens, bathrooms, and systems that may need updating. Budget for potential renovation costs if buying an older home.

HOA Fees: Many Mililani properties, especially condos and townhomes, come with HOA fees ranging from $300-$800 per month. These fees cover shared amenities but add to your monthly housing costs.

Our Verdict: Who Should Move to Mililani?

Mililani is ideal for families with school-age children who prioritize education, safety, and community. It is a top choice for military families stationed at Schofield Barracks or Wheeler Army Airfield. Remote workers and anyone who does not need to commute to Honolulu daily will especially love the lifestyle.

Mililani may not be the best fit if you crave urban nightlife, work in downtown Honolulu with a strict 9-5 schedule, or prefer newer luxury construction. But for the vast majority of homebuyers we work with, Mililani checks all the important boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mililani safe? Yes. Mililani consistently has one of the lowest crime rates on Oahu. The community is well-lit, well-maintained, and has active neighborhood watch programs.

What is the commute from Mililani to Honolulu? During rush hour, expect 35-50 minutes via H-2. Off-peak, the drive is about 25-35 minutes. Military commuters heading to Schofield Barracks enjoy a 10-15 minute drive.

Is Mililani good for retirees? Mililani is primarily a family-oriented community, but retirees who enjoy an active lifestyle with golf, parks, and community events do well here. The cooler temperatures and walkable shopping add to the appeal.

How are Mililani schools compared to other Oahu neighborhoods? Mililani schools are among the best on Oahu, ranking in the top 5% statewide for math and reading proficiency. Very few Oahu communities match this level of educational quality.

Want to see if Mililani is the right fit for you? Contact Kristy & Austin at (808) 829-6819 or visit kahomegroup.com for a personalized neighborhood tour and home search.