Poverty and unemployment rates have surged in Lahaina following last year’s devastating wildfires, according to a recent study. The University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) revealed that more than a year after the deadly blaze razed historic Lahaina, the poverty rate among survivors has more than doubled since the August 2023 fires. Incomes also plummeted by over 50% for almost 20% of the respondents.
Daniela Bond-Smith, a research economist at UHERO and one of the report’s co-authors, described the findings as “quite staggering.” The study, based on responses from 402 individuals who resided, worked, or owned businesses in West Maui and Kula during the wildfires, indicated that 29% of households affected by the fires now live in poverty. This figure is more than double the pre-fire percentage and three times higher than the Maui County average.
The research further highlighted a decline in the number of survivors employed, with those who still have jobs working fewer hours. Notably, the unemployment rate surged from 2.3% to 14.2%, with a significant impact in the tourism sector, Maui’s largest employer. Less than half of those who previously had full-time jobs in tourism remain employed, while over 20% are now unemployed, retired, or not actively seeking work.
Regarding housing, the survey revealed that nine out of ten respondents lost their homes in the wildfires. Post-disaster, survivors are facing increased rental costs for smaller accommodations, coupled with reduced income streams to cover the expenses. A pressing issue highlighted in the study is the desire of one in three respondents living outside West Maui to return next year, despite a shortage of housing options. Only 700 temporary housing units are currently under construction with support from state, county, and nonprofit organisations.
Efforts are being made to address the housing crisis, with Maui Mayor Richard Bissen proposing legislation to increase West Maui’s housing supply by converting short-term vacation rentals into long-term rentals. The study emphasised the importance of addressing the needs of those who lived and worked in the fire-affected communities to fully comprehend the magnitude of the disaster and identify gaps in support services. By offering the survey in multiple languages and involving various agencies and organisations in participant recruitment, the study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the challenges faced by wildfire survivors in Lahaina.