Thinking about moving to Hawaii? The state ranks #1 for healthcare and natural environment in the country. Plus, with the lowest property taxes and a year-round warm climate, over 58,000 people moved here in the last year alone.
But the move comes with trade-offs. The median home price is over $824,130. Rental costs are also among the highest in the country. Still, many are choosing cities like Honolulu, Hilo, and Kailua for lower living costs and a better quality of life.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Hawaii ranks #1 for its robust healthcare system and natural environment.
- The average cost of living in Hawaii is 65% higher than the national average. The state consistently ranks #1 for its high cost of living.
- With a median home price of $824,130, the cost of housing in Hawaii is approximately 126% higher than the national average.
- The state has a progressive income tax ranging from 1.4%-11%, one of the highest in the country.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- Hawaii has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons and warm temperatures year-round.
3 Reasons to Move to Hawaii
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Hawaii, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Healthcare in Hawaii
Hawaii ranks #1 in the nation in terms of healthcare quality, 4th for easy access to healthcare, and 6th for public health. Queen’s Medical Center has been Hawaii’s top hospital for the last 13 years, while Adventist Health Castle earned a 5/5 from federal quality ratings in 2025.
Additionally, Hawaii ensures that nearly everyone is covered by health insurance, with over 96.8% of its residents having health insurance. This success is driven by the Prepaid Health Care Act, a policy that requires employers to provide comprehensive coverage.
2. Tax Benefits
With an average effective property tax rate of 0.32%, Hawaii ranks #1 for the lowest property tax burden in the country. Plus, Hawaii offers an Oahu home exemption up to $120,000 for residents aged under 65 and up to $160,000 for residents aged 65 years or older.
Additionally, the state does not levy a sales tax. Instead, it levies a General Excise Tax ranging from 0.15%-4% depending on the nature of your business.
3. Natural Environment
With its 137 islands and over 750 miles of beaches, Hawaii is known for its lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes. Iconic landmarks include Volcanoes National Park, with active lava flow, and the Nā Pali Coast featuring dramatic cliffs.
Hawaii offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can hike trails like the Kalalau Trail, snorkel in the colorful reefs of Hanauma Bay, or surf on waves. The islands are also home to unique plants and animals, with 90% of their species found nowhere else on Earth.
Pros and Cons of Living in Hawaii
Here are the pros and cons of living in Hawaii:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. With 32 hospitals in Hawaii and 11 integrated delivery networks (IDNs), Hawaii ranks #1 for its robust healthcare system. | 1. The average cost of living in Hawaii is 65% higher than the U.S. average. The state consistently ranks #1 for its high cost of living. |
| 2. The state levies a 0.32% property tax, which is one of the lowest in the country. | 2. Most jobs are concentrated in the urban areas. Rural Hawaii has fewer job options. |
| 3. Crime rates in Hawaii are extremely low. The state ranks 3rd nationally for crime & corrections. | 3. Hawaii is prone to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and wildfires. |
| 4. Hawaii ranks #1 in the country for its natural environment and pure air & water quality. | 4. Due to its overburdened and old infrastructure, traffic congestion is a significant issue in Hawaii. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Hawaii 📌
Here are the things to keep in mind before relocating to Hawaii:
1. Cost of Living in Hawaii
The average cost of living in Hawaii is 65% higher than the national average. So, you’ll spend more on expenses like utilities, food, healthcare, and transportation. Additionally, renting a house is significantly more expensive than in the rest of the country.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
Hawaii faces several problems with its aging infrastructure. 66% of the roads in the state are in poor or bad condition. Plus, the state’s current drinking water infrastructure is over 100 years old and needs an urgent upgrade.
State officials are working to improve its road and water infrastructure. Hawaii is set to receive $1.5 billion over five years in federal funding to improve its highways and roads.
3. Climate in Hawaii
Hawaii has a warm, tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The state experiences year-round warm temperatures and light, consistent trade winds. The temperature in Hawaii ranges from 64°F-82°F in winter to 70°F-92°F during summer.
However, being an island state, Hawaii is prone to several natural disasters, including volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and wildfires. It’s crucial to check FEMA-designated high-risk zones and local guidelines before moving to Hawaii.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle and Driver’s License Registration: After moving to Hawaii, you have 30 days to register your out-of-state vehicle and obtain a Hawaii driver’s license. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and title documents for registration.
- Moving to Hawaii with a Gun: You must register your firearm within 5 days. Adults aged 21 years or above can obtain a Hawaii license to carry (LTC). Non-US citizens are allowed to bring a firearm for up to 90 days, limited to hunting or target shooting.
- Recreational Marijuana: Use of marijuana for recreation is not legal in Hawaii. Possession of any amount can result in $130-$10,000 in fines or up to 5 years in prison.
- Moving to Hawaii with Pets: There is no statewide law requiring pet licensing and vaccination in Hawaii. However, several counties have their own pet registration and vaccination laws. Visit your county website to learn about pet registration laws in your area.
5. Tax Burden in Hawaii
Hawaii ranks #1 for the highest tax burden on individuals in the country. Here’s a breakdown:
- Income Tax in Hawaii: Hawaii has a progressive income tax ranging from 1.4%-11%, depending on your annual income, which is 2nd highest in the country. However, unlike some other states, cities are not allowed to impose local income tax.
- General Excise Tax (GET): Instead of sales tax, Hawaii levies a General Excise Tax ranging from 0.15% to 4%, depending on your business. Additionally, counties can also add a surcharge to the 4% rate (but not to the 0.15% or 0.5% rates).
- Property Tax in Hawaii: With an average effective property rate of 0.32%, Hawaii has the lowest property taxes in the country. Additionally, cities or counties in Hawaii are not allowed to levy local property taxes.
How to Move to Hawaii?
Before buying a house in Hawaii, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $177 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, renting a container is a better option. You can choose to rent either full container load (FCL) or less than container load (LCL). On average, an FCL shipment costs $5,000–$16,000. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in Hawaii:
- Electricity and Gas: The Gas Company (dba Hawaii Gas) is the sole gas service provider in Hawaii. However, your electricity providers vary depending on the island you live on. You can visit their website to check availability in your area and begin the service.
- Water and Sewer: Depending on the island you live on, these services in Hawaii are usually provided by local municipalities, along with a few private companies. Visit your city website to find out the appropriate service provider for your area.
- Internet and Cable: Hawaiian Telcom and Spectrum are among the largest internet and cable service providers in Hawaii. Costs typically range from $30 to $80. Visit their respective websites to know more about availability in your area.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in Hawaii?
Most schools in Hawaii offer online registration:
- For Kindergarten: Children must be at least 5 years old to be eligible for kindergarten enrollment and first-grade enrollment on or before July 31. You will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: You’ll need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check their athletic eligibility with the new school before enrolling.
- Transfer and Special Cases: Transfers and special cases in Hawaii are usually managed by the local school districts. You can visit their website or directly reach out to the school district office for assistance in the enrollment process.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: 23.8% of employees in Hawaii work from home. If you are someone who works remotely, just ask your employer about any state-specific tax and employment laws.
- Find a New Job: WorkHawaiʻi and Operation Hire Hawaiʻi are the workforce development programs that provide hiring events, workshops, and on-the-job training. You can also visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The Hawaii housing market leans in favor of buyers at present. 21% of listed homes have experienced price drops, and inventory has increased by 25%. This gives buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.
- In popular cities like Honolulu, Hilo, and Kailua, the average rent is around $3,100. It typically depends on the neighborhood you’re moving to and the available amenities.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Honolulu cost around $753K. Meanwhile, cities like Mountain View and Hilo offer more affordable options, with median home prices of $334K and $534K respectively.
Should I Move to Hawaii?
Yes, you should definitely move to Hawaii. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Hawaii isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Hawaii’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Aloha State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Hawaii, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- Yelp.com: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Hawaii, long before the moving boxes are packed.
