Moving to Hawaii in 2023? Complete Moving Guide

This is a complete guide for Moving to Hawaii.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Hawaii

Are you considering moving to Hawaii?

Hawaii is one of the most coveted islands on the planet. The state is one of those tourist attractions everyone should get to see at least once in a lifetime. About 10 million visitors visit the island a year.

If you love the fresh smell of the cool ocean breeze, swimming, paddle boarding, rock climbing, camping, off-road tours, and almost any other adventure you can imagine, moving to Hawaii is right for you.

The Aloha State is home to five national parks, 1,137 mountains, five volcanoes, more than a hundred beaches with various species of fish including Manta rays, sea turtles, Humpback whales, Spinner dolphins, monk seals, and more.

If all of that sounds like what you’ll love, moving to Hawaii is right for you. This guide contains all the details you need to know about the island before making up your mind about moving to Hawaii.

Aloha!
Demographics

Hawaii Demographics

A quick look at the population and other demographics of Hawaii.

Male vs Female Population of Hawaii 2021

Male vs Female Population by Age Groups in Hawaii 2021

Population distribution by Ethnicity in Hawaii 2021

facts of Hawaii

Quick stats to note about moving to Hawaii

  • Hawaii is the only U.S. state with two official languages.
  • Hawaii gets 240 sunny days per year on average
  • Hawaii gets zero inches of snow in a year
  • Tourism is the largest industry in Hawaii
  • The Hawaiian word Aloha serves as both "hello" and “goodbye.”
  • Surfing was invented in Hawaii
  • The costs of homes in Hawaii is higher than the U.S. average

What’s the population of Hawaii?

Hawaii’s population is 1,406,430 people. The state extends across eight major islands with Honolulu as the largest city.

  • Hawaii is the 40th largest state in the union
  • Hawaii stretches across 10,931 square miles of surface area
  • Hawaii has a population density of 222.9 people per square mile
  • Hawaii’s median age is about 38.5 years of age
  • Hawaii’s ratio of females to males is 49.8% to 50.2%

How fast can you commute in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s average one-way commute times take about 27.4 minutes. The national average is 26.4 minutes. That means the average commuting time in Hawaii is slightly longer than the United States average.

How Hawaiians commute to work on the island:

  • About 67.1% of Hawaiians drive their own car alone
  • Up to 13.7% of Hawaiianscarpool with others
  • Around 4.6% of Hawaiians work from home
  • About 6.6% of Hawaiians take mass transit

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How is the weather like in Hawaii?

Hawaii gets 240 sunny days per year on average. The national average is 205 days. If the weather is one of the key things you’d like to consider before moving to Hawaii, here’s a breakdown of the Aloha state’s weather:

  • Hawaii gets zero inches of snow in a year
  • Hawaii gets about 57 inches of snow in a year
  • Hawaii gets 166 days of precipitation a year
  • Hawaii’s July high is around 83 degrees
  • Hawaii’s winter low in January is around 63 degrees
move to hawaii

Top 10 reasons to move to Hawaii

Every year, millions of people visit Hawaii. If you’re considering moving to Hawaii, you’re most likely wondering why people are moving to the island aside from tourism.

But there’s more to Hawaii than being a huge tourist attraction. Here are the top ten reasons people are moving to Hawaii:

  • Hawaii is one of the biggest tourist attractions on earth

    Occupying the tops of massive volcanic mountaintops jutting from the sea, Hawaii has a diverse and beautiful landscape, ranging from the stark lunar surface of the Kilauea volcano to lush green forests filled with exotic flowers. The island state is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations on the planet, attracting millions every year.

  • Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on earth

    Though Hawaii is packed with mountains, lush landscapes, and amazing green forests, the state is most famous for its never-ending beaches. Here, we’ve got the top 10 beaches in Hawaii.

    • Waikiki Beach
    • Kapalua Beach
    • Lumahaʻi Beach
    • Big Beach
    • Waimanalo Beach
    • Ko Olina Beach
    • Waimea Bay Beach Park
    • Polihale State Park
    • Hanalei Bay
    • Poipu Beach Park

  • Hawaii has a remarkable weather

    Hawaii is warm year-round with 300+ sunny days. It rains well in Hawaii and summers are not hot, neither winter is cold enough to wrap you in winter wear. This helps you when you are in a mood to explore the different corners of the state.

  • There are endless things you can do to have fun in Hawaii

    Hawaii is a beautiful state to explore, full of history, culture, and natural attractions. There are a lot of things in this stat to keep you engaged.

    We’ve compiled a few attractions in Hawaii.

    • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Waimea Canyon State Park
    • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
    • Diamond Head State Monument
    • Haleakala National Park
    • Waimea Arboretum and Botanical Garden
    • Panaewa Rainforest Zoo
    • Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial
    • Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
    • Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge

  • If you love water sports and recreations, welcome to Hawaii

    If you love water, Hawaii is for you. The pristine waters of the Hawaiian Islands are the perfect playground for your aquatic, adventurous spirit. Some of the best things you can do in Hawaii include kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, sailing, parasailing, jet skiing, and scuba diving.

  • Hawaii is a melting pot of cultures

    Hawaii is a unique archipelago of cultural diversity. You’ll find a blend of many cultures here and Americans fondly call Hawaii a melting pot. Asians, Caucasians, Pacific Islanders, Hispanics, and Africans live in Hawaii, making it one of the most diverse states.

  • Hawaiians are nice and hospitable

    Hawaii is one of the happiest places in the US and every second person you find here will be cordial and friendly. Hawaiians prefer welcoming everyone and maintain a friendly attitude towards outsiders

  • You won’t have to rush to do anything in Hawaii

    Hawaii has a laid back attitude and people here prefer going at a low pace. If you are from New York, LA, Philadelphia, or Chicago, you’ll be surprised to note how casual the life here is.

  • If you love off-road tours, hiking, and camping, etc. you’ll love Hawaii

    For adventure lovers aspiring for adrenaline-pumping activities, Hawaii is the best place. The state also has unlimited camping options to feel next to nature by sleeping under the sky at night.

    Here are a few places in Alaska to go off-road, hike, and camp outside.

    • Na Pali Coast Trail
    • Hanakapi’ai Beach
    • Sliding Sands Trail
    • Kukui Trail
    • Kaunala Trail
    • Waipio Valley Road
    • Mauna Kea Volcano
    • Wailea a Haleakala
    • Kailua Ridge Trail
    • Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls

  • The Aloha spirit of love and respect is remarkable

    Hawaiians are famous for their hospitality. The people here welcome everyone with respect and expect the same in return.

pros and cons of Hawaii

Pros & Cons of Living in Hawaii

Is moving to Hawaii right for you or not? One of the easiest ways to find out is to consider the pros and cons of living on the island

Here are the pros and cons of living in the Aloha state if you’re moving to Hawaii:

The pros of Living in Hawaii The cons of Living in Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the most beautiful islands on earthThere are lava flows in some areas of the island
Hawaii has remarkable weather all year longYou’ll have to put up with plenty of rainfall in some parts of the state
Roads and highways are always in good conditionsHigh cost of living
Hawaii is rich in culture and historyTraffic is terrible on some islands
Relatively low crime rateWater supply is terrible in some areas
Low sales tax and general excise taxYou may not have a mail delivery system
If you love off-road tours, welcome to HawaiiYou may have to deal with discarding your trash
There are lots of uninhabited islands to exploreHawaii is far from other states
Lots of recreational opportunitiesThere are no seasons in Hawaii
Beautiful and breathtaking beachesIt's 80 Degrees And Sunny All Year Long
Lots of opportunities for camping, rock climbing, and hiking, etc.The wages don’t match the cost of living in Hawaii
Hawaiians aren’t really bothered about amassing wealthPetty theft is common in Hawaii
Poor public transportation
Hawaii is behind the latest trends
You’ll have to put up with lots of tourists
palce to live in hawaii

Best Places to Live in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most remarkable islands on earth. Moving to Hawaii most likely means living in some of the best islands in the state.

We’ve made a list of the ten best places to live in Hawaii to make it easier to streamline your house hunting. Check out the list below:

Rank City Population Unemployment Rate Home Value
1Mililani Mauka20,0901.7%$691,200
2East Honolulu47,5402.0%$959,800
3Ahuimanu8,0232.5%$708,300
4Aiea9,6383.2%$825,300
5Waikele7,4421.0%$508,000
6Kaneohe33,8413.1%$770,700
7West Loch Estate6,1392.0%$613,000
8Ewa Gentry25,6412.8%$568,300
9Ocean Pointe14,9893.1%$665,200
10Kaneohe Station11,2897.5%$1,069,400
cost of living in hawaii

Cost of Living in Hawaii

The cost of living in Hawaii is rated 170.0. The U.S. average is 100. That means the average cost of living in Hawaii is higher than the national average.

This is one of the key things to consider if you’re moving to Hawaii.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the various costs that makes up the cost of living in Hawaii:

Cost of Living Hawaii United States
Overall170100
Grocery150.7100
Health94.3100
Housing268.9100
Median Home Cost$621,700$231,200
Utilities185.8100
Transportation122.9100
Miscellaneous108.4100

Median House Price in Hawaii vs USA 2021

Median Rent Price in Hawaii vs USA 2021

Cost of Living by Categories in Hawaii vs USA 2021

Housing market info in Hawaii

Hawaii’s housing market is one of the most coveted housing markets in the country. If you’re moving to Hawaii, renting or buying a property can be a great idea. Here’s a simple analysis of the island’s housing market:

  • Hawaii’s median home cost is $621,700
  • Currently, home values in Hawaii are up by 4.3%1
  • Over the past 10 years homes in Hawaii has appreciated by 32.8%
  • About 36.8% of Hawaiians are renters
  • Around 3.7% of homes and apartments in Hawaii are open to rent

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What’s the average cost of renting a home in Hawaii?

There are lots of housing options in Hawaii including BnBs, and hotels, etc. However, renting a home is one of the most suitable housing options in Aloha state. Since you’re considering moving to Hawaii, here’s the average cost of renting a home in the state:

  • The average cost of a studio apartment in Hawaii is $1,274
  • The average cost of a 1-bedroom home or apartment in Hawaii is $1,444
  • The average cost of a 2-bedroom home or apartment in Hawaii $1,895
  • The average cost of a 3-bedroom home or apartment in Hawaii 2696
  • The average cost of a 4-bedroom home or apartment in Hawaii 3249
jobs in hawaii

How is the job market in Hawaii?

The largest industry in Hawaii is tourism and due to COVID-19 most tourism companies are in the Aloha state are currently on lockdown.

As a result, the unemployment rate in Hawaii is currently higher than the U.S. average.

Since you’re considering moving to Hawaii, here’s a simple breakdown of the state’s job market:

  • Hawaii’s unemployment rate is 8.6%. The national average is 6.0%
  • Current job growth in Hawaii is nosediving so far
  • Hawaii’s future job growth is expected to hit 32.09%
Employment information Hawaii United States
The income per Cap.$32,511$31,177
Unemployment Rate8.66
Recent Job Growth-12.25%-6.18%
Future Job Growth32.09%33.51%

What are the top industries in Hawaii?

Hawaii is home to several large industries. Moving to Hawaii means getting the opportunity to invest or work in any of these industries. Check out this list of the largest industries in Hawaii:

  • Tourism
  • Defense
  • Agriculture
  • Fishing Industry
  • Manufacturing
  • Power
  • Taxation

What are the top career options in Hawaii?

Are you considering switching your career after moving to Hawaii? We’ve made a list of the top ten career options in the Aloha state since you’re considering moving to Hawaii.

Rank Job Title Average Salary Entry Lavel Salary # Of People
1Physicians, All Other; And Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric$263,200$85,5602,110
2Family Medicine Physicians$251,180$170,880350
3Surgeons, Except Ophthalmologists$250,410$151,640240
4General Internal Medicine Physicians$240,370$117,580290
5Chief Executives$215,910$80,740560
6Pediatricians, General$204,380$119,750240
7Dentists, General$202,890$80,010660
8Architectural And Engineering Managers$154,070$100,1901,070
9Astronomers$144,540$62,32060
10Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary$141,910$72,410540

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Median salary and income in Hawaii

How much will you most likely earn if you get a job after moving to Hawaii? One of the easiest ways to find out is to consider the average pay in the state. Here are the average salary and income in the Aloha state since you’re considering moving to Hawaii:

  • The average annual pay for the average job in Hawaii is $73,973 a year
  • The average hourly rate for the average job in Hawaii is $35.56 an hour
  • The average weekly pay for the average job in Hawaii is $1,423 a week
  • The average monthly pay for the average job in Hawaii is $6,164/month
  • Hawaii’s minimum wage is $10.10 an hour

Who are the Largest employers in Hawaii?

Hawaii is home to several large companies propelling the state’s economy. Since you’re considering moving to Hawaii, here’s a list of the ten largest employers in the state. :

Rank Company City Employees
1TesoroKailua14,300
2Hawaii Pacific HealthUrban Honolulu6,621
3Hawaiian AirlinesUrban Honolulu6,356
4Hawaii State Teachers AssociationUrban Honolulu4,667
5Kyo-Ya Hotels Resorts LPUrban Honolulu4,000
6Hawaiian Electric IndustriesUrban Honolulu3,796
7HHSCUrban Honolulu3,615
8Honolulu International AirportUrban Honolulu3,000
9Homes By TowneUrban Honolulu3,000
10St. Francis HospitalUrban Honolulu3,000

Tip: When you’ve got a home to move in Hawaii, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.

Top 10 highest paying cities for average jobs in Hawaii

Getting a job in Hawaii is fairly easy. However, if you’re considering moving to an island based on available jobs, here’s the list of the top ten highest paying cities for average jobs in the Aloha state.

City Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
Kailua$70,091$5,841$1,348$33.70
Honolulu$66,228$5,519$1,274$31.84
Waipahu$63,231$5,269$1,216$30.40
Pearl City$62,681$5,223$1,205$30.14
East Honolulu$62,540$5,212$1,203$30.07
Kahului$62,284$5,190$1,198$29.94
Kaneohe$60,429$5,036$1,162$29.05
Ewa Gentry$59,994$4,999$1,154$28.84
Hilo$59,771$4,981$1,149$28.74
Mililani Town$59,630$4,969$1,147$28.67
hawaii taxes

Hawaii tax info

How are taxes like in the aloha state if you’re moving to Hawaii?

We’ve collated key stats about the state’s taxes to make it easier for you to make a fair comparison with other states if you’re moving to Hawaii.

  • Hawaii’s income tax is 1.40% - 11%
  • Hawaii’s sales tax is 0%
  • Hawaii’s general excise tax (GET) is 4% - 4.50%
  • Property tax in Hawaii is 0.28% average effective rate
  • Hawaii’s gas tax is 16 cents per gallon of regular diesel and gasoline
hawaii

Best things to do in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most exciting places on the planet. The possibility of things you can do to have fun on the island is almost endless.

If you’re moving to Hawaii, we’ve made a list of some of the best things you can do on the island. You can make a remarkable bucket list from the list below:

  • Drive Waimea Canyon

    Often called ‘the Great Canyon of the Pacific, the Waimea Canyon is approximately ten miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep. Waimea Canyon was formed when the Waimea River carved its way through the lava and basalt formations of the region and is now a popular tourist destination.

  • Hike the Kalalau Trail

    The 11-mile trail from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach is one of the most dangerous and adventurous in the US, crossing above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys.

  • Snorkel with Sea Turtles at Tunnels

    Snorkel at Tunnels Beach, also known as Makua Beach if you are a confident swimmer. There are shallow areas protected by a coral quarry and reefs open onto the ocean and if you\re lucky, you’ll have an encounter with a Hawaiian monk seal.

  • Kayak to a Secret Waterfall and Hike Wailua Canyon

    For eco-adventure enthusiasts, there is no better way to experience Hawaii than kayaking to a Secret waterfall and hiking the Wailua Canyon. After reaching the bottom of the 120-ft. Secret Falls waterfall, experience the breathtaking beauty. The adventure will be complete only after a moderate hike through a rainforest, wading through streams, traversing muddy trails, and walking over a tree root system. The Kauai Secret Falls kayak and hike tour totals about four miles of paddling and two miles hiking round trip.

  • Visit Hawaii Volcanos National Park

    The 323,431-acre national park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes and encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Several of the National Register of Historic Places listings are located within the park.

  • Dive with Manta Rays

    Kona in Hawaii is the best place to dive with Manta Rays. There are many guided underwater tours to spot Manta Rays and swim with them.

  • Visit Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

    The 17-acre Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden features streams, waterfalls, and a boardwalk along the ocean. There are over 2,000 plant species, representing more than 125 families and 750 genera. Some of the garden's mango and coconut palm trees are over 100 years old.

  • Bike Mauna Kea

    One of the 6 volcanoes in Hawaii, Mauna Kea is 4,207.3 m above sea level and is now dormant. Mauna Kea’s variety of terrestrial habitats includes stone deserts, shrublands, alpine woodlands, and tropical forests.

  • Sail the Nā Pali Coast

    Spanning 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore, the Napali Coast is famous for its breathtaking beauty. There are emerald-hued cliffs with razor-sharp ridges towering above the Pacific Ocean. The beautiful beaches and waterfalls add charm. Extensive stone-walled terraces can still be found on the valley bottoms where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro.

  • Drive the Road to Hana

    The road to Hana is known for its breathtaking scenic coastal beauty. On the way fall a diverse array of wayside parks, and gorgeous waterfalls and the beauty is beyond description.

  • Take a Helicopter Tour

    The enchanting beauty of Hawaii is best explored from the sky. Many helicopter tours are available to catch up with the breathtaking sky view of the state.

  • Snorkel Molokini Crater

    The crescent-shaped, partially submerged Molokini crater is Hawaii’s only marine sanctuary. Less than half-mile wide, this crater peaks at about 160 feet above sea level and is a popular snorkeling destination.

  • See the Humpback Whales

    Every winter, thousands of humpback whales reach Hawaii to mate, give birth, and raise their young. Though humpback whales can be seen throughout Hawaii, the shallow Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world.

  • Catch the Sunset on Mount Haleakala

    Watching the Haleakala sunrise or sunset is truly an unforgettable experience. Travel to the top of Mount Haleakala, standing 10,000 feet above sea level to catch up with the most scenic sunset you’ve ever seen. A reservation is required as there will be thousands coming to the mount top every morning and evening.

Tip: While moving the home, safety of your belongings is the priority and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. Know the top-rated moving companies in Hawaii.

How safe is Hawaii?

If you’re moving to Hawaii, you’ll most likely be concerned about safety on the island. Violent crime rates in Hawaii are way lower than the national average. The following is the breakdown of the state’s tax rates.

  • The violent crime rate in Hawaii is rated 16.3. The national average is 22.7
  • The property crime rate in Hawaii is rated 41.4. The U.S. average is 35.4
  • Aggravated assault is the most common violent crime (52%) in Hawaii
  • Robberies account for 28% of all violent crimes in Hawaii
  • Larceny-theft is the most common property crime (74%) in Hawaii
  • Burglaries account for just 13% of all property crimes in Hawaii
schools and university in hawaii

Best Schools & Universities in Hawaii

Schooling in Hawaii can be a great idea especially if you love all the remarkable sights and sounds of the island.

So, if you’re moving to Hawaii, we’ve made a list of the top ten best schools in the Aloha state to give you a head start. Check out the list below:

Best elementary schools in Hawaii

  • Momilani Elementary School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-6 | 406 students, Rating: 10/10

  • King Liholiho Elementary School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-5 | 479 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-6 | 451 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Ke Kula o Ehunuikaimalino
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-12 & Ungraded | 216 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Moanalua Elementary School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-6 | 647 students, Rating: 10/10

Best Middle Schools in Hawaii

  • Major Sheldon Wheeler Middle School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 6-8 | 800 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Moanalua Middle School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 7-8 | 853 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Aiea Intermediate School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 7-8 | 602 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Ke Kula o Ehunuikaimalino
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-12 & Ungraded | 216 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Kaimuki Middle School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 6-8 | 989 students, Rating: 10/10

Best High School in Hawaii

  • Kalaheo High School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 9-12 & Ungraded | 759 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Ke Kula o Ehunuikaimalino
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, PK-12 & Ungraded | 216 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Moanalua High School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 9-12 & Ungraded | 1976 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Kalani High School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 9-12 & Ungraded | 1422 students, Rating: 10/10

  • Henry J Kaiser High School
    Hawaii Department of Education, Public, 9-12 & Ungraded | 1161 students, Rating: 10/10

Best Universities and Colleges in Hawaii

  • Rank 1. The University of Hawaii at Manoa
    Honolulu

  • Rank 2. Hawaii Pacific University
    Honolulu

  • Rank 3. Brigham Young University-Hawaii
    Laie

  • Rank 4. The University of Hawaii at Hilo
    Hilo

  • Rank 5. Chaminade University of Honolulu
    Honolulu

  • Rank 6. University of Hawaii-West Oahu
    Kapolei

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