At $6,399/yr net price, Honolulu Community College graduates earn $45,105/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $11,105/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,399 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $25,596 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $45,105/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$11,105/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 34.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,534 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,645/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,914/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,115/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,129/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,369/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Trades, General. | Associate | $74,747 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $52,107 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $43,798 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $29,685 | $9,062 |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Associate | $12,468 |
The Risk Factor
34.8% of students at Honolulu Community College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Honolulu Community College offers solid financial returns for students who choose the right programs, though your major selection will make or break your investment. The school's low net price of $6,399 annually keeps debt manageable, but a 35% graduation rate means many students never see any return on their investment.
Construction trades students earn the highest returns at $74,747 annually, making this program an strong value given Hawaii's booming construction market and high cost of living. Electrical and power transmission programs also deliver strong outcomes at $52,107, reflecting demand for skilled technicians across the islands. Auto repair technology graduates earn $43,798, which provides decent purchasing power in Hawaii's expensive economy.
Avoid the cosmetology program entirely. Graduates earn just $12,468 annually, which falls far below Hawaii's living wage requirements. Liberal arts students face similarly poor outcomes at $29,685 with higher debt loads, making this path financially unviable for most students.
You face location-specific risks here. Hawaii's isolated job market limits career mobility, and the state's high cost of living erodes purchasing power even for decent salaries. If your chosen field lacks local demand, you may struggle to find work without relocating to the mainland.
This school works best for Hawaii residents seeking practical trade skills for the local market. Mainland students should consider whether the higher living costs and limited job market justify the move. Focus on the construction and electrical programs if you attend, and complete your degree within the standard timeframe to avoid the debt accumulation that plagues many community college students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Honolulu Community College worth the money?
Honolulu Community College offers strong value for skilled trades programs like construction and electrical work, which earn $52,000-$75,000 annually. However, the 35% graduation rate is concerning, and liberal arts graduates earn only $30,000 per year.
What are the best paying programs at Honolulu Community College?
Construction trades graduates from Honolulu Community College earn $75,000 annually, making it the highest-paying program. Electrical and power transmission programs also pay well at $52,000, while cosmetology graduates earn just $12,500.
How much debt do Honolulu Community College students graduate with?
Honolulu Community College graduates typically have $7,500 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. With the low annual cost of $6,400, most students can minimize borrowing if they complete their programs.
What is the graduation rate at Honolulu Community College?
Only 35% of students graduate from Honolulu Community College within the expected timeframe. This low completion rate means many students pay tuition without earning a credential, making program selection and academic preparation critical.