Americans love Hawaii! The state is ranked as the 17th best state to live in the US and is the most active state for inbound migration. Hawaii received a score of 71.1 out of 100, ranking highest in the areas of work environment, emotional health, and life evaluation. The best places to live in Hawaii are Honolulu, Maui, Kailua, etc.
The average cost of living in Aloha State is $2778. Apart from tourism, the other fastest-growing sectors of Hawaii include agriculture, military defense, and education which makes it the best place to live in Hawaii. Let’s explore some of the places to live in the state.
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3 Reasons to Live in Hawaii 🏝️
- Growing Job Market: In 2025 and 2026, economic growth in Hawaii is expected to increase by 1.9% and 2.0%, respectively.
- Personal Income: There will be an increase in personal income of 3.8% in 2024, 4.0% in 2025, and 4.2% in 2026.
- State Income Tax: Hawaii has the lowest effective property tax rate, which is just 0.29% annually.
Best Places to Live in Hawaii in 2024
| # | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Unemployment Rate | Community Well-Being Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Honolulu | 348,547 | $615,000 | $10,695 | 2.90% | 71/100 |
| 2. | Maui | 163,419 | $1,002,500 | $11,203 | 87.1% | 61/100 |
| 3. | Kailua | 21,449 | $1,411,683 | $42,785 | 7.6% | 54/100 |
| 4. | Waimea | 10,458 | $920,810 | $3,565 | 3.5% | 54/100 |
| 5. | Hilo | 47,627 | $484,135 | $9,430 | 8.4% | 54/100 |
| 6. | Pearl City | 46,812 | $914,096 | $10,695 | 6.4% | 75/100 |
| 7. | Mililani | 27,423 | $893,660 | $10,695 | 7.6% | 75/100 |
1. Honolulu
| Home Value | ⬇️ 1.0% |
| Median Income | $83,946 |
| Monthly Expenses | $10,695 |
| Unemployment Rate | 71/100 |
Honolulu is the capital city of Hawaii. The city saw an increase in the non-agricultural sector, and around 8,400 jobs were added in the third quarter of 2023.
The city is a popular destination for travelers looking for sun, sand, and surf and has warm and pleasant weather throughout the year.
Moreover, living in Honolulu offers cultural attractions, such as the historic Iolani Palace, the Bishop Museum showcasing Hawaiian artifacts, and the Honolulu Museum of Art.
» Homes for Sale in Honolulu, HI: View thousands of properties in the capital city.
2. Maui
| Home Value | ⬆️ 3.1% |
| Median Income | $95,379 |
| Monthly Expenses | $11,203 |
| Unemployment Rate | 87.1 |
Maui is home to the University of Hawaii Maui College. It offers a variety of academic programs and vocational training. Kihei is one of the best regions to reside in Maui.
Apart from this, the state offers a wide range of housing options, including single-family homes, condominiums, and apartments.
Also, the island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore hiking, zip-lining, surfing, snorkeling, and whale-watching in the winter.
» Homes for Sale in Maui, HI: Find your home in the Valley Isle.
3. Kailua
| Home Value | ⬆️ 1.1% |
| Median Income | $106,329 |
| Monthly Expenses | $42,785 |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.6% |
Kailua is the best beach town in the state. A single adult must pay $42,785 annually for housing, transportation, health care, and other necessities in the city.
In addition to this, you can also explore outdoor activities such as the Lanikai Pillbox Hike and Maunawili Falls Trail.
» Homes for Sale in Kailua, HI: Get a home in this beautiful city of Oahu.
4. Waimea
| Home Value | ⬇️ 2.9% |
| Median Income | $90,841 |
| Monthly Expenses | $3,565 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% |
Waimea has a wide range of properties, from cozy bungalows and cottages to gigantic mansions. The cost of living in Waimea surpasses the national average by 31%. Additionally, many residents work in agriculture-related industries, including ranching, farming, and forestry.
The city, also known as Kamuela, is a picturesque town situated in the upcountry region of the Big Island of Hawaii.
» Homes for Sale in Waimea, HI: View thousands of listings on this big island of Hawaii.
5. Hilo
| Home Value | ⬇️ 0.3% |
| Median Income | $101,320 |
| Monthly Expenses | $9,430 |
| Unemployment Rate | 8.4% |
Hilo is one of the best places in Hawaii and is on the island’s eastern side. The cost of living in the city is 46% higher than the national average.
However, housing costs, in particular, can vary depending on factors such as size, location, and amenities. Throughout the year, the city also holds several festivals and cultural events, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival.
» Homes for Sale in Hilo, HI: Find your home on this eastern coast of Hawaii.
6. Pearl City
| Home Value | ⬇️ 0.6% |
| Median Income | $138,814 |
| Monthly Expenses | $10,695 |
| Unemployment Rate | 6.4% |
Pearl City is one of the best cities to live in Hawaii and is part of the Honolulu metropolitan area. The average value of homes in Pearl City is $914,096, which has decreased by 2.4% compared to last year.
The city primarily consists of residential areas, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. Besides this, the place offers numerous amenities, which include restaurants, parks, and recreational facilities.
» Homes for Sale in Pearl City, HI: View thousands of properties in Pearl City.
7. Mililani
| Home Value | ⬆️ 2.0% |
| Median Income | $126,663 |
| Monthly Expenses | $10,695 |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.6% |
Mililani is one of the first planned communities and the most ideal Hawaiian island to live on. The cost of living in Mililani exceeds the national average by 43%.
Additionally, the majority of Mililani’s real estate is residential, with a variety of single-family, townhouse, and condominium options. The city also has an excellent education system, which makes it the best option for families.
» Homes for Sale in Mililani, HI: Find a home in this educational city.
Bottom Line
Hawaii is one of the best places to live in the US due to its robust job market and affordable living. The state also prioritizes wellness programs and has a good healthcare system.
The average home value in Hawaii is $831,808, down 0.1% over the past year. However, home prices are inconsistent throughout the state. The Aloha State can be your top choice if you’re looking to live on an island.
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Research Methodology
We considered different regions to rank the best places in Hawaii. The comparison criteria for the best cities to live in Hawaii and the information sources are as follows:
- Population: Hawaii Demographics Report [1]
- Median Home Price: Zillow[2] and Redfin[3]
- Median Household Income: United States Census Bureau[4]
- Monthly Expenses: Economic Policy Institute[5]
- Unemployment Rate: US Bureau of Labor Statistics[6]
- Community Well-Being Score: Community Well-Being Index by Sharecare[7]
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Hawaii for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, retirees, and working professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best place to live in Hawaii?
The best place to live in Hawaii is Honolulu.
What are the housing options like in Hawaii?
Hawaii offers a variety of housing options, which include townhouses, apartments, and single-family homes, as well as condos.
What are some of the cheapest places to live in Hawaii?
Some of the cheapest places to live in Hawaii are Wahiawa, Waipahu, Ewa Beach, Waianae, and Makaha.
How are the local amenities and recreational opportunities like in Hawaii?
Hawaii offers a wide range of recreational options and amenities when you buy a house. These include parks, shops, dining places, beautiful beaches, and hiking trails.
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