Updated March 2026
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What Affects Rates in Hilo
- Hilo's status as one of America's wettest cities creates persistent flood exposure, particularly in Keaukaha, Waiakea, and downtown low-lying areas. Flash flooding during heavy rain events damages vehicles parked near streams and coastal zones. Comprehensive coverage claims for water damage and mold occur at significantly higher rates than in Kona or upcountry zones.
- Highway 19 serves as the primary north-south route through Hilo and connects to Kona via the northern route through Waimea. Heavy truck traffic from Hilo Harbor and commuters from Puna and Hamakua create collision risk, especially near the Puainako Street intersection and Banyan Drive. Wet pavement during frequent rain increases accident frequency compared to drier Big Island regions.
- Hilo's smaller population and tight-knit community result in vehicle theft rates well below Honolulu and even Kona. Comprehensive coverage costs remain moderate, though catalytic converter theft has increased in poorly lit shopping center lots near Prince Kuhio Plaza and along Kilauea Avenue.
- Downtown Hilo and Keaukaha sit within tsunami inundation zones, with evacuation routes along Kamehameha Avenue and Highway 11. While tsunami damage falls outside standard auto policies, vehicles left in evacuation zones during warnings face saltwater exposure. Coastal parking near Banyan Drive and Liliuokalani Gardens carries elevated flood risk during storm surge.
- Hawaii's uninsured motorist rate hovers near 10%, with Hilo seeing slightly higher rates among visitors and temporary residents. Uninsured motorist coverage is critical given tourist traffic from Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea, where rental vehicles and out-of-state drivers increase exposure to underinsured claims.
Coverage Options
Cost estimates are based on available industry data and vary by driver profile. These are not insurance quotes.
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an accident.
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive into a complete package.
Covers non-collision damage including flood, theft, and falling debris.
Pays for vehicle damage from accidents regardless of fault.
Protects you when hit by a driver without insurance.
Liability Insurance
Required minimum in Hawaii is 20/40/10, but Hilo's wet Highway 19 conditions and tourist traffic make higher limits prudent.
$450–$700/yearEstimated range only. Not a quote.
Full Coverage
Essential for financed vehicles in Hilo given flood risk in Keaukaha and Waiakea neighborhoods and frequent heavy rain.
$1,100–$1,600/yearEstimated range only. Not a quote.
Comprehensive Coverage
Critical in Hilo due to 130+ inches of annual rainfall, flash flooding, and coastal storm surge near Banyan Drive.
$350–$550/yearEstimated range only. Not a quote.
Collision Coverage
Wet pavement on Highway 19 and Kanoelehua Avenue creates year-round skid risk during Hilo's daily rain showers.
$400–$650/yearEstimated range only. Not a quote.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Recommended given tourist traffic from Volcanoes National Park and Hawaii's 10% uninsured driver rate.
$100–$180/yearEstimated range only. Not a quote.