Hilo Option (rentals, car insurance, condo)

[frediver]

It looks like I will have the option of moving to Hilo shortly. I am a bit confused when looking at the classifieds for rentals. It seems to me that
the prices are a bit off. First I see a normal grouping of 1/1's or studio/ohana
rentals at 800.-1200.00 then a break to 15-1800.00, why the big break? It could be just the old saying location, location etc. OK what locations should I be looking at, I know there are differences and I have not yet spent much time in Hilo?
A bit about me:
I will be single for the short term, I need to leave my wife here for about a year. We have spent most of our spare time visiting Hawaii and Maui so we are somewhat familiar with the local economy, more so on Maui. We will likely need to move somewhere from here in order for me to stay employed and we, really me, now have the Hilo option. I am trying to decide what it will actually take for me to live in Hilo and if I will be able to support two homes until a move is made.
Thanks in advance for any help or advice.

[Paniolo Cowgirl]

The less expensive rentals could very well be in less desirable parts of town. They could be tiny beaten up plantation houses.

The more expensive ones could very well be in a nicer part of town. Perhaps farther up the hill where it is cooler. And they could be newer houses. Perhaps a house that has been better kept up than the less expensive rentals.

[cynmkolohe]

Are you looking at only homes or at condo rentals as well?

[frediver]

Thanks for the responses.
I am open for about anything because for now at least it will just be me. I have no clue concerning what areas of Hilo I should be looking in ? Car insurance is another question,
no idea of the local cost?
In short I would be relocating blind, not blind to the state but to the local Hilo area.
Thanks<><>