The Huli are grouped in clans (hamigini) and subclans (hamigini emene). Clans have residential rights within a specific territory, and membership is based on hereditary descent.
Subclans are smaller groups within the larger clan and are the basic units of Huli society. Subclans operate autonomously, and may make war or peace, or pay indemnities, without consulting the larger clan. Membership of a subclan is usually restricted to those who are directly related to the subclan founder or to another member of the subclan. Huli may belong to several subclans at a time, depending on their kinship and ancestry.
The Huli have an inclusive kinship system. For instance, people who in European cultures are considered half-brothers, half-sisters, and cousins, may all be reckoned as brothers and sisters by the Huli. Also, individuals that other cultures might label their 'aunts' and 'uncles', are seen by the Huli as their 'mothers' and 'fathers'.
Men and women have traditionally lived in separate quarters. Boys go to the men's house or their father's house shortly before the age of puberty. Unmarried men historically lived in large group houses, although this is exceptionally rare nowadays. Traditionally a man's hut was at the center of the village, used for meetings over village activities and sometimes for group sleeping, as well. Women lived in separate huts for them and their families around.