Living in Hawaii has truly been an opportunity of a lifetime, much like living the dream my husband and I had always fantasized about.
Having lived on the stunning shores of Maui and another island for over a decade, we consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have experienced the epitome of what many only see as a bucket-list ambition. Yet, moving to Hawaii wasn’t merely about embracing paradise; it came with its distinct set of pros and cons.
The pros? The sheer beauty and serenity of the islands, the warmth and kindness of the people we’ve met, and the helpful community spirit that has made living here all the more reason to never leave.
The cons, however, are the realities that shadow any dream destination: the daunting cost of living, the sense of isolation from the wider world, and the challenges of weaving into the fabric of a new and vibrant culture.
Through it all, we’ve learned that even paradise has its darker moments, but the opportunity to call such a place home is a fortune few get to enjoy.
The experience has been nothing short of invaluable, molding our lives in ways we could never have previously imagined. Hawaii offers more than just a destination; it’s a profound lesson in the simple joys of life, the breathtaking beauty of nature, and the pivotal importance of community.
Living in Hawaii First,
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The Pros of Living in Hawaii
#1. Hawaii is Paradise
Embarking on the journey to Hawaii was more than just a vacation dream; it was a conscious decision to transform our living situation into something akin to paradise.
The transition wasn’t just about the allure of soft sandy beaches, the gentle sway of palm trees, or the promise of picture-perfect sunsets; it was about embracing a real life change.
This move required significant planning, a willingness to adapt, and the hustle to make it work amidst the stressful but inevitable challenges that come with such a drastic change.
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Living here, every bad day is softened by the heavenly scenery, and every good day feels amplified by the natural beauty surrounding us. It’s a constant reminder that life, in its essence, can be a paradise, shaped not just by our surroundings but by our state of mind.
My husband and I often reflect on how moving here has reshaped our understanding of tourist attractions versus the real life of island living. It’s a testament to the idea that paradise isn’t just a place you visit but a life you build, with all its complexities and joys.
#2. The Weather Is Pure Bliss
In Hawaii, the weather is what many would describe as pure bliss, with sunshine gracing us every day, making living here feel like an endless summer. The island boasts average temperatures that hover around 85°F during the warmer months from May to October and a pleasant 78°F through the rain season from November to April.
Despite Kauai being known as the rainiest island, the weather remains mild year-round, and it’s practically impossible to complain. The occasional pocket of rain only adds to the charm, as these moments are often short-lived, quickly giving way to sunnier patches. This ever-present sun not only shines upon us but also invites a daily celebration of the great outdoors.
The seasons here, though localized and subtle, craft a backdrop against which life unfolds in vibrant hues, urging even the most indoorsy folks to escape into the great outdoors. It’s a weather pattern that supports a lifestyle where the great outdoors becomes your living room, and the temperate climate means there’s rarely a bad day to enjoy the beauty that Hawaii offers.
#3. Access to Nature + Outdoor Recreation
In Hawaii, the access to nature and outdoor recreation is nothing short of heavenly, offering a plethora of activities that make living here a dream for any avid nature nut. From world-class surfing waves that call to adventurers across the globe, to the tranquil beach settings where one can spend hours lounging or snorkeling in clear blue waters, every day is an opportunity to experience the great outdoors.
Not to mention, the hiking opportunities are breathtaking, with trails that offer views so stunning, they hardly seem real. Whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, or swimming, the water sports here are unparalleled, each moment filled with the kind of abounding nature that can make even the simplest travel from your front door feel like stepping into a postcard. And let’s not forget the birdsong that accompanies your mornings; it’s downright magical.
The beauty of Hawaii’s natural landscape is so rich and immersive that any fuss about daily inconveniences quickly fades away, leaving you to appreciate the sheer joy of being so close to nature.
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#4. Fresh Fruits
The perk of living in Hawaii that truly stands out is the access to fresh fruit; it’s a luxury that might seem strange to those who haven’t visited these islands. The tastes of ripe mango and juicy pineapple here are incomparably sweeter than what you’d find elsewhere.
It’s something my husband and I often discussed before moving; we were genuinely excited about the prospect. There’s nothing that compares to biting into a piece of fruit that tastes so real, so full of flavor. It’s a simple pleasure that enhances the daily experience of living in such a unique place. Every time we enjoy these fresh fruits, it’s a reminder of why we chose to make Hawaii our home.
#5. You’ll Be Living in a Beautiful Place
Calling Hawaii home means you’ll be living in a place so insanely beautiful, it often feels like an understatement to simply describe it.
The breathtaking nature, from jagged mountain peaks to towering waterfalls and colorful reefs, offers a landscape that photos can scarcely do justice. To see it is to believe it; a sight for sore eyes, with constant rainbows adding a nice touch to the already stunning scenery.
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Having traveled to over 30 countries, I can strongly suggest that nowhere else have I felt so privy to the world’s natural wonders as when I decide to move and live in Oahu’s North Shore, which quickly became one of my favorite places. The sheer beauty here makes every other destination pale in comparison.
#6. Hawaii Is Diverse
Hawaii stands as a true melting pot, ranked as the third most diverse state in the country. Its population boasts a rich tapestry that identifies as Asian, white, and Native Hawaiian, making it the most racially and ethnically diverse region in America.
Interestingly, it’s also the least white state, highlighting the diversity that defines its essence. Living here has exposed me to cultures from around the world, offering an unparalleled opportunity to expand my horizons and learn about new cultures on a daily basis.
Whether it’s interacting with Native Hawaiians, the large number of Asian residents, or the plethora of tourists, each day is a chance to embrace a broader worldview, truly embodying the spirit of diversity that makes Hawaii so unique.
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#7. Living in Hawaii Is Safe
One of my favorite things about living in Hawaii is the pervasive sense of safety. It’s one of the few places where you never feel unsafe, regardless of the time of day. While like any city in the world, Hawaii has its fair share of crime, the overall levels are low, and incidents are mostly petty, such as car break-ins.
There’s a comfort in being able to go walking alone in early mornings or late evenings and still feel comfortable. This sense of security extends into daily life, making Hawaii safer than any other city I’ve lived in to date. The unique combination of low crime levels and community vigilance contributes to a quality of life where safety is woven into the very fabric of existence here.
#8. Life in Hawaii Is Simple
Living in Hawaii has instilled in me a new appreciation for a slower way of life that is simple yet profoundly satisfying. The extraneous complexities of the modern world seem removed here, allowing us to focus on what’s truly essential: the sunshine, the salty sea, good food, and great people.
The spirit of Aloha permeates every aspect of existence, encouraging a lifestyle that is far less materialistic and more about embracing an easy life. I’ll admit, staying up to date with the current fashion trends doesn’t hold the same allure when your most frequent purchases are swimsuits anyways. By and large, the priority here isn’t about having the latest gadgets or wardrobe but about living well, enjoying nature’s bounty, and valuing human connections above all else.
Cons of Living in Hawaii
#1. The Housing Market
Moving to Hawaii brings the elephant in the room into full view: the housing market. It’s a wild ride with prices that can only be described as shocking. An average price for a home sits at around $765,000, and for many, this is cost prohibitive.
If you’re looking at renting, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is a hefty $2,500, and if you dare to venture into downtown Honolulu, prepare to pay around $2,700 for spaces with outdated appliances and an old charm that’s hard to brag about. Yet, we remind ourselves of the access to breathtaking nature and vibrant daily life that Hawaii promises, making it a place many still aspire to live.
The competition for houses and apartments is incredibly fierce. A tour of potential rentals leaves many renters feeling disheartened unless they come prepared with a strong credit score of 680+, crucial for securing a decent place to live.
Despite the fierce competition and daily life challenges, the housing market’s outdated norms and cost prohibitive nature, alongside the wild average price of an apartment or home, reflect the hard realities of Moving to or living in downtown Honolulu or anywhere in Hawaii. The old adage that you’re paying for paradise rings true, but it’s a paradise that demands a hefty investment, both emotionally and financially.
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#2. High Cost of Living
The high cost of living in Hawaii is a stark reality that cannot be glossed over, impacting everyone from long-time residents to hopeful newcomers. Living in paradise means facing the truth that without a steady income from a great job or advance planning, the dream can quickly become untenable.
It’s not uncommon for folks to juggle two jobs just to make ends meet, given that the average salary hovers around $50,000—barely enough to scrape by in a state where your zip-code can dramatically alter your cost of living.
This is a big reason why many people find themselves seeking roommates, turning to friends who have moved towards high-paying teleworking gigs as the best way to afford the Hawaiian lifestyle.
Despite the allure of its beauty and culture, Hawaii’s affordability is a significant hurdle. The quest for a reasonable cost of living pushes many to innovate in their careers or seek out less traditional pathways to ensure they can enjoy the islands’ splendor.
Whether it’s leveraging remote work opportunities or pooling resources with roommates, the spirit of adaptability and resilience shines through as residents find ways to navigate the financial challenges of island life.
#3. You’ll Never Feel Like A Local
Honestly, moving to Hawaii brings with it a unique set of challenges, one of which is the feeling that you may never feel like a local, no matter how long you live there. My husband and I have moved to Hawaii and spent over 10+ years trying to weave ourselves into the fabric of the local community.
Despite our efforts, there’s an undercurrent of resentment from some Native Hawaiians towards transplants which can’t be ignored. This isn’t to argue the validity of their feelings but to acknowledge a reality that requires newcomers to develop a thick skin. A cold shoulder is not guaranteed, but being kept at arm’s length is a common experience.
To try and assimilate, we’ve met incredible friends through volunteering and being genuinely open to learning and respecting the local culture. Yet, the position we’re in, like many others who have moved here, often feels precarious. While some locals have accepted us, there’s an unmistakable sense that for some, no amount of time or effort will allow us to fully bridge that gap.
#4. Lack of Seasons
The lack of seasons in Hawaii is both a pro and a con, depending on whom you ask. Personally, my decision to move to Hawaii was heavily influenced by the pleasant, year-round weather that ensures you won’t experience winters as you know them elsewhere.
The thought of escaping to a place where I could wear t-shirts and shorts even in the dead of winter was irresistible. However, for some folks, this very aspect can make daily life feel somewhat monotonous.
The absence of seasonal changes makes the passage of time blur, lacking the markers that seasons traditionally provide. While you may escape the chill of winters, you might also find yourself missing the variety and anticipation that comes with changing seasons.
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#5. Island Fever Is Real
Living in Hawaii means settling into a routine where time seems to slow down, and things don’t change as much as on the mainland. The islands boast beautiful restaurants, quaint cafes, and unique stores, but you’ll soon learn that most places close by 10pm, and nightlife is almost non-existent.
While visiting on vacation, this slow pace feels charming, but once you move and make it your home, you might find yourself yearning for a change in scenery once in a while. The small community means you’ll often run into the same people and engage in small talk with familiar faces, which, while friendly, can amplify the feeling of island fever.
#6. Tourist Season Is A Bear
Living in Hawaii means dealing with a tourist season that truly is a bear, with the island swells with over 10+ million visitors each year. From December to April, it becomes a crazy time where the influx of people is both overwhelming and a test of patience.
You quickly learn to avoid running errands at certain times of the day when lines are impossibly long and traffic turns into a nightmare. Yet, there’s something that warms the heart about seeing tourists enjoying the place you’re fortunate enough to call home. Even if getting your coffee and donuts might involve an hour-long wait, it’s a small price to pay for living in paradise.
#7. The Job Market
In Hawaii, the job market is as unique as the islands themselves. Moving here with the hope of securing a good-paying job might be more challenging than in other states, largely because jobs that pay well are hard to come by. The tourist economy dominates, meaning much of the employment revolves around tourism, the service industry, restaurants, hotels, and stores.
Even for those with a college degree, finding a gig that matches your skills can be daunting, making Hawaii one of the hardest states to find a job. Getting hired often requires more than just the right qualifications; trust and connections within the community can dramatically improve your chances. It’s vital to have a job lined up before making the move, or at least a solid plan to address the realities of life in a city where the job market may not meet your expectations.
FAQ – Living in Hawaii
How much money do you need to live in Hawaii?
To lead a comfortable lifestyle in Hawaii, one must earn a substantial salary, given the steep living costs. An individual’s yearly outlay might span $70,000 to $80,000, whereas a four-person household could see expenses from $130,000 to $150,000 to manage costs for accommodation, utilities, groceries, and commuting. Such estimates place Hawaii at the top of the list for the priciest places to live in the U.S., a status attributed to its costly real estate market, high utility bills, and the premium on imported goods to the islands.
Is Hawaii a good place to live?
Indeed, the allure of Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes and relaxed way of life captivates many. Yet, it isn’t suited to everyone’s tastes. While those in search of paradise, lovers of the great outdoors, and surfing aficionados may thrive, others might be deterred by the steep expenses associated with living there, the narrow job market primarily confined to the tourism sector, and the possibility of feeling isolated.
Is Hawaii a good place to retire?
For retirees drawn to picturesque views, consistent warmth, and endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits, Hawaii emerges as an ideal locale for golden years. It’s a place where the quality of life is enriched by a vibrant culture and a tight-knit community fabric. Yet, the financial aspect, especially the elevated expenses related to accommodation and medical care, cannot be overlooked. Those equipped with ample savings or a steady income stream that can effortlessly cover these costs will find Hawaii an unparalleled haven for a peaceful and rewarding retirement, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Compare the Pros vs the Cons of Living in Hawaii
| Pros of Living in Hawaii | Cons of Moving to Hawaii |
| Life in Hawaii is paradise | The housing market |
| The weather is pure bliss | High cost of living |
| Access to nature and outdoor recreation | You won’t feel like a local |
| Fresh fruits | Lack of seasons |
| Hawaii is beautiful | Island fever is real |
| It’s a safe place to live | Tourist season |
| Hawaii is diverse | The job market |
| Life in Hawaii is simple |
