I've lived Hawaii since the mid '80s when I moved here at the age of 21. I arrived sight-unseen in Honolulu with zero contacts and about 6 months worth of savings. I worked from nearly zero and today Hawaii has given me the greatest gifts in the world in all aspects: spiritually, financially, romantically (married since early '90s w/ 2 children), and most important, peace. My goal with this site is to share the magic of this Land of Aloha and help others who are on a similar quest.
Living in Hawaii may or may not be more expensive than where you live. It all depends on what part of the country you live in. I live in Washington State. Housing and electricity in Hawaii is double the cost. In Hawaii property taxes are 1/2 the cost, sales tax is less, food is equivalent (if you shop responsibly) and gasoline is the same if you are a Costco member, insurance is the same, and many other items required to survive are equivalent – if you are a smart shopper & live simply. So if we sell our home in Washington State (which is paid for) and downsize, we could buy a home in Hawaii with little or no mortgage. You need to consider all your existing expenses and know what your Hawaii expenses would be to answer the question – can I afford to live in Hawaii. Many Individuls might actually live cheaper in Hawaii than where they currently live. It all depends on your personal situation.
Well said! Everyone’s situation is different and you need to look at the particulars of your finances to decide. However, unless you live in one of major cities, I’m confident that nearly everything here will be much, much more expensive. It just takes one trip to the grocery store to see that.
Living in Hawaii may or may not be more expensive than where you live. It all depends on what part of the country you live in. I live in Washington State. Housing and electricity in Hawaii is double the cost. In Hawaii property taxes are 1/2 the cost, sales tax is less, food is equivalent (if you shop responsibly) and gasoline is the same if you are a Costco member, insurance is the same, and many other items required to survive are equivalent – if you are a smart shopper & live simply. So if we sell our home in Washington State (which is paid for) and downsize, we could buy a home in Hawaii with little or no mortgage. You need to consider all your existing expenses and know what your Hawaii expenses would be to answer the question – can I afford to live in Hawaii. Many Individuls might actually live cheaper in Hawaii than where they currently live. It all depends on your personal situation.
Well said! Everyone’s situation is different and you need to look at the particulars of your finances to decide. However, unless you live in one of major cities, I’m confident that nearly everything here will be much, much more expensive. It just takes one trip to the grocery store to see that.