Why did HOA fees increase in Hawaii in 2025

Written By Mai Kashihara

If you’ve been watching condo listings on Oʻahu and thinking, “Wait… why are the maintenance fees so high now?” — you’re not imagining it.

Why HOA fees jumped (especially in 2025)

A big driver behind the 2025 maintenance fee increases was insurance.

After the Lahaina fires were classified as a catastrophe (generally when recovery costs exceed $1B), insurance companies moved fast to raise premiums to cover losses and future risk. And here’s the part most people don’t realize:

  • Catastrophes don’t just affect the island they happen on.

  • They can impact insurance pricing statewide and even nationally.

A similar example: the Florida seaside condo collapse also influenced premiums far beyond Florida.

The “bright side” (and why it doesn’t always lower your fees)

As recovery efforts begin and insurers have more time to calculate actual costs, insurance pricing can settle. In 2025, there were situations where insurance prices lowered substantially after the initial shock.

That’s why you may hear about the occasional condo building that lowers their HOA fee.

But in reality, many buildings will keep the new HOA level even if insurance eases up — and that’s not always a bad thing.

Why many condos keep HOA fees high even when costs drop

Most associations would rather use that “extra room” to:

  • Strengthen reserves

  • Prepare for unexpected repairs

  • Reduce the chance of future special assessments

In other words: even if one line item improves, boards often choose stability and preparedness over lowering fees.

What this means for buyers (especially in Hawaiʻi)

Because of insurance volatility, aging buildings, and long-term reserve planning, HOA fees are unlikely to ever trend down in a meaningful way.

The best-case scenario most buyers can hope for is:

  • Steadiness year to year

  • Smaller increases instead of big jumps

How to shop smart with HOA fees

If you’re condo shopping, don’t just compare the monthly fee — compare the risk behind it.

A few smart checks:

  • Is the building’s fee high because it includes utilities (water/sewer, cable, etc.)?

  • Are reserves strong, or is the building playing catch-up?

  • Any recent or upcoming insurance changes?

  • Any history of special assessments?

If you want, I can help you quickly sanity-check a building’s HOA situation so you know what’s “normal” vs. a red flag.

Want help finding a condo that fits your monthly comfort zone?

If you tell me your price range + preferred area (Waikīkī, Moanalua, Town, etc.), I’ll help you narrow to buildings that match your lifestyle and your monthly numbers.

Mai Kashihara
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Renting vs. Buying on O‘ahu in 2026: A Local Kama‘aina Guide