Every year thousands of people move to Hawaii to buy a home and start living their dream. Even though the transition is complicated, moving to Hawaii offers a lot of benefits. It comes with great things, such as beautiful weather all year round, accessibility, beautiful white sand beaches, plenty of outdoor activities, and Hawaii's unique aloha spirit that emits the local culture.
However, island life is not for everyone. The Hawaiian Islands have many things to offer to their residents, but it also comes with trade-offs when living in the isolated archipelago. What works or is suitable for one family may not work right for another. This article aims to help anyone with their decision whether they should move to Hawaii.
Things You Should Consider Before Moving to Hawaii
Hawaii is a tropical paradise that allows you to experience island life. It is the best place, and the island can be your playground if you are into watersports like snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, foiling, canoe paddling, stand-up paddling, and sailing. More to that are the fantastic postcard-perfect beaches. However, you must understand that living in Hawaii is different from living on the Mainland. These are the things you should consider before you decide if you should move to Hawaii.
1: High Housing & Utility Costs
Property taxes in Hawaii are the lowest in the U.S., but the cost of housing can be very high and may vary from island to island. According to Zillow, the typical home price is $777,762, higher than the $285,579 price listing you will find in Chicago, Il, or the $286,066 in Tampa, FL.
According to Zillow, the rent index in Honolulu is at $2,164 at the beginning of 2021. It can vary depending on the island where you live. A report according to Homesnacks said that the average rent in Hilo is around $1,045, while it's about $1,389 in Kapaa, Kauai. Besides the rent, residents of Hawaii pay more for utilities. The retail price for energy in Hawaii is the highest in the U.S.
2. Jobs and Wages
When it comes to job opportunities, they vary from island to island. Oahu has the most job availability among all the islands. Even though the cost of living in Hawaii is high, the median wage is also high, making it the top 10 highest in the nation.
3. Your Grocery Budget
Hawaii imports most of its agricultural products, so you can expect that your grocery will be higher than what you spent on the Mainland. The Missouri Economic Research and Information center even ranked Hawaii's groceries as the most expensive in the whole U.S. So, take advantage of as much local produce as this can lessen your grocery bill because it is way cheaper.
4. The Quality of Education
In the United States, education in Hawaii ranks 39th even though each student spends $11,823, which is $2,500 more than what kids spend in California. So if you are moving with your family, consider taking advantage of Hawaii's public school. This can significantly impact your family's budget. Check best high schools in Hawaii article for your reference. You may start your research with Hawaii's statewide public school district website and see your options for private schools, or you may also consider homeschooling.
5. Distance from Friends and Family
As an isolated island, Hawaii has a unique ecosystem with flora and fauna only found. However, you have to invest time and money to visit a friend and family due to the distance. The cost of tickets to Hawaii is more expensive than flying between states on the Mainland.
6. Bringing your pets
Bringing pets to Hawaii has become easier given the recent update on quarantine procedures. But some pets are not allowed on the island, such as wolf dogs, crossbreds, porcupines, hamsters, snakes, geckos, and a lot more. To ensure that your family, including your pets, can move to Hawaii, check with the Plant Industry Division for your questions.
Factors that Make Hawaii an Excellent Place to Live
Although there are some disadvantages to living in Hawaii, the advantages of its climate, health and recreation reflect the quality of life. It consistently receives recognition as one of the best states to live in regarding environmental factors, low crime incidence, education, and longevity. Above all, we all know it as a top tourist destination rich in stunning scenery, warm weather, friendly people, and many aesthetic and recreational opportunities. These factors make Hawaii an excellent place to live.
Climate
With regards to climate, Hawaii is very comfortable. The average temperature on the island is 78 degrees Fahrenheit during cold months and can only barely get to 90 degrees in the summer. Given this climate, residents can enjoy outdoor sports and activities all year long and ocean sports during winter. Prevailing trade winds and moderate rainfall cool the island, which makes the clothing costs lower.
Health
Hawaii residents enjoy the longest average life expectancy. It ranks tenth in the number of physicians and the top state regarding the number of dentists per 100,000 populations. It has a state-of-the-art health care system, advanced hospital equipment all over the state, and up-to-date approaches to critical issues of universal health care access.
Environment
Based on the six environment-related criteria in the 1995 survey, Honolulu got into the top 75 largest metropolitan areas. The state prides itself on its quality air due to low humidity, cooling trade winds, and lack of industrial pollution. It has adequate clean water for domestic, business, and agricultural needs. The porous lava rock filters the water on the island. The statewide land management of the state aims to protect the environment.
Education
Hawaii also holds higher education, research efforts, and international organizations. It is at the forefront of national research in astronomy, ocean, and earth sciences. Its A+ programs let the parents focus on their work, secure in the idea that qualified personnel is caring for their children.
Culture
Hawaii is rich in cultural opportunities that vary throughout the state. It has a diverse heritage that gives way to the rise of many Asian and Pacific festivals. It has 73 museums, state monuments, zoos, and similar attractions.
The People
Hawaii residents have the intangible "aloha" spirit in them: hardworking, productive, amiable, and helpful. This blend of cultures is complemented by various visitors adding to the state's rich diversity, hospitality, and promise.
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