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I’ve seen several of these “Pros and Cons” of Living in Hawai’i pieces floating around recently, and while some of them are great—more than a few are either woefully incomplete or just plain inaccurate. 

I thought I’d share my take on the pros and cons of living in Hawai’i, as someone who grew up on Big Island, and whether moving to Hawai’i is a good idea. I’ll also answer 26 of the most asked questions about living in Hawai’i to help you decide whether island life is right for you. 

Moving to Hawai’i

Are you considering moving to Hawai’i? Living in Hawai’i is a bucket-list item for many people for a reason—it’s pretty amazing.

I wasn’t born in Hawai’i (I was born in Canada), but as I mentioned above, I grew up on Big Island from the time I was five. It’s everything you imagine it to be. But Hawai’i is so much more than just beautiful scenery—it’s also home to the most amazing people you’ll ever meet.

As you read my list of pros and cons of living in Hawai’i, keep in mind that my lived experience influences them—yours may be different. I hope you find this helpful.

But before we look at the pros and cons of living in Hawai’i, let’s look at a few facts about the Hawaiian archipelago. 

Pros and Cons of Living in Hawai’i—Hawai’i Facts and Figures

How Many People Live in Hawaii?

As of 2023, the population of Hawai’i clocks in at just over 1.44 million people. 

The island of O’ahu boasts a population of just over one million, with 350,000+ people calling Honolulu, the state capital, home. 

How Big Is Hawai’i?

With a total land area of 10,970 square miles (28,412 square km), the Hawaiian Islands rank as the 43rd largest state in the U.S. 

Is Hawai’i A Safe Place To Live?

Yes, in general, Hawai’i is a safe place to live. 

With a violent crime rate of 2.5 incidents per 1,000 individuals, Hawai’i falls below the national average of 4.0 and decreased from the previous year’s rate (2.6). As one of only 15 states experiencing a reduction in violent crime yearly, Hawai’i defies the nationwide trend of increasing violence.

What Is Public Transportation Like In Hawai’i?

You can’t have a list of pros and cons of living in Hawai’i without talking about transportation.

O’ahu has the best bus system in Hawai’i. The Bus  provides extensive island coverage and regular services.

TheBus, the public transit service, makes traveling a breeze. With bus routes originating from Honolulu, accessing major attractions and commuting to and from Waikiki is simple. The service is both affordable and frequent.

A single fare is currently $3.00 and includes 2.5 hours of unlimited transfers. If you plan to travel the entire day, the “Day Cap” provides unlimited travel for $7.50. The 7-Day Pass will set you back $30.00 and give you unlimited rides for seven consecutive days. Monthly Passes are also available for $80.00 

Each of the four major islands—O’ahu, Maui, Kaua’i, and Hawai’i Island (Big Island)—has a bus system.

There currently are no public bus systems on Molokai or Lanai. 

Hawai’i Commuting Times

Honolulu’s average commute distance is approximately 6.6 miles; however, this distance can feel significantly longer during congested peak traffic hours.

General commute times vary widely from 10 to 30 minutes (Central Honolulu, Kalihi and Kakaako) to 2 – 2.5 in North Shore, Laie, Mākaha and Nānākuli.

Hawai’i Cost of Living

One of the main consideration of pros and cons of living in Hawai’i centers around cost of living.

Living on an island, whether a Hawaiian island or an island in the Artic, means paying more for just about everything. If it isn’t grown or manufactured locally, it must be flown or shipped in—and that cost gets passed to consumers. 

In a recent Payscale study, the cost of living in Honolulu was 88% higher than the national average. 

The median home price in Hawai’i is $831,629, putting housing prices at 202% higher than the national average. For comparison, the average rent in Honolulu is $2,233. However, you can find lower amounts. With an average rent of $1,213/month, Ala Moana is the most affordable neighborhood in Honolulu.

Other expenses, like utilities, groceries, health insurance, etc., are typically more than the national average. But shopping locally goes a long way toward keeping costs down. 

To give you some perspective, the average monthly grocery spend in Honolulu is about $900, but I can do just fine on about $400—without skimping.

It’s worth noting, however, that I always cook from scratch. And shopping around can make a difference in how much you spend. For example, the price of a gallon of milk can range from much as $9 in some places to as low as $6.00 in others. 

What Salary Do I Need To Live Comfortably In Hawai’i?

For a single person in Honolulu, an annual salary of $50,000 should cover your necessary costs. How much additional funds you’ll need to achieve a “comfort” level will depend on your lifestyle.

When Did Hawai’i Officially Become a State?

On August 21, 1959, Hawai’i achieved statehood. In 1978, the Hawaiian language was declared an official language of the state. Hawai’i is the only officially bilingual state in the United States. 

What Is The Hawai’i State Nickname?

Hawai’i is the Aloha State. Aloha represents more than just a word; it embodies a lifestyle centered around showing respect and consideration for others and the islands themselves.

What is Hawai’i’s State Motto?

Hawaii’s state motto, “Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ‘Aina i ka Pono,” translates as “The life of the land is preserved through righteousness.” This motto can be seen on the official state seal.

What is Hawai’i’s State Flower?

The yellow hibiscus, Ma’o Hau Hele, is Hawai’i’s state flower. It is also called the “Hawaiian hibiscus.”

What is Hawai’i’s State Mammal?

The Hawaiian monk seal, ʻĪlioholoikauaua, is Hawai’i’s state mammal.

What is Hawai’i’s State Tree?

Hawai’i’s official state tree is the kukui nut tree, also called candlenut, Indian walnut, kemiri, varnish tree, nuez de la India, and buah keras. The nut is often used as an ingredient in Indonesian and Malaysian cuisine.

In ancient Hawai‘i, the kukui nuts were burned to provide light. Kukui would be lined up on a coconut frond, and as one burned, another would be lit. The nut was also burned in coconut shells or a lava stone oil lamp to bring fishermen home from the sea. Other properties this special nut offered were ink, varnish, medicine, dye and wood for canoes. 

The very name Kukui‘ula comes from two words: kukui, or candlenut, and `ula, which means red glow. In ancient Hawai‘i, kukui was also a measure of time.

What Is Hawai’i’s State Sport?

Unsurprisingly, Hawai’i’s state sport is surfing (Heʻe Nalu). The sunshine, warm waters, and seasonal swells draw thousands of new surfers each year. In the winter, the North Shore is famous for its remarkable swells near Hanalei Bay, while during summer, southern regions such as Po‘ipu and the West Side become the surfing hot spot.

Pros and Cons of Living in Hawai’i—Is Moving To Hawai’i A Good Idea?

Whether or not moving to Hawai’i is a good idea will depend on your preferences and lifestyle. I have good friends who live comfortably off-grid in Hawai’i at a slower pace and have a high quality of life.

Other friends live and work in Waikiki and are always on the go somewhere. Two very different lifestyles in the same state. But they share a common characteristic—both are deeply involved in their respective communities.

It’s important to remember that life on any island requires working together. And life on the Hawaiian islands is no different; it means working toward protecting and preserving the land, communities, and culture for future generations. 

36 Pros and Cons of Living in Hawai’i

Now that you have an idea of what living in Hawai’i is all about, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of living in Hawai’i. 

At the end of this section, I’ve answered 26 of the most common FAQs about living in Hawai’i. 

Ready? Let’s get started.

1. Pro: Life in Hawai’i is Pretty Close To Paradise

You’ve probably heard that there’s a difference between vacationing in Hawai’i and living in Hawai’i. And it’s true. The experience you have when you live someplace, day after day, will be different from where you spend just two weeks. This is especially true if you’ve only visited a place through a tour or a resort. 

Life in Hawai’i is real life, with groceries, laundry, traffic jams, and wild weather. And like anywhere else, it requires attention to the little things and consideration of how you want to spend your days. 

Yes, you might have a bad day, but at the end of that bad day, there’s a pretty fantastic sunset to make everything a little bit better.

2. Con: Life Can Get Real In Hawai’i

Like any major city, Honolulu experiences local crime issues with those living with drug and other addictions. This can lead to theft, and damage to property, among other difficulties. And like most major cities, it’s recommended that you stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas and never leave valuables unattended. 

3. Pro: Hawai’i Weather Is Awesome

Despite what you may have heard, Hawai’i isn’t a “one-season” destination. Hawai’i has two seasons: wet and dry. Actually, the seasons are summer (May to October) and winter (November to April). 

During the summer, you can expect temperatures around 85°F (29°C) and about 78°F (25°C) in winter

You’ll get a lot of sunshine in Hawai’i. Almost every day is mild, making it easy to enjoy yourself regardless of what you decide to do.

The rainy season usually begins in late October and lasts into March. But because Hawai’i has hyper-local weather, it can be rainy in one area and sunny in another spot on the island. 

4. Con: Volcanoes Can Get Grumpy

The Hawaiian islands came into existence through volcanic activity. They’re actually the end of a chain of volcanoes that started forming more than 70 million years ago.

Each Hawaiian island is comprised of one or more volcanoes.

These volcanoes first erupted on the Pacific Ocean floor. After countless volcanic eruptions, the islands eventually emerged above sea level only. Hawai’i has active volcanoes which can still erupt. 

5. Pro: Natural Beauty

From the beaches to the volcanoes, Hawai’i is a beauty that lives and breathes. You’ll see colors in the Hawaiian sky you won’t see anywhere else. And it’s everywhere.

You don’t have to hike across the island to see something breathtaking. You just have to look out your window. 

6. Con: Living In Nature Can Mean Living With Natural Disasters

Hawai’i, like most islands, is vulnerable to natural disasters. Hurricanes, tsunamis, volcano eruptions, and earthquakes can happen anywhere in Oceania and beyond— including Hawai’i.

Like much of the southern United States, hurricanes come “in season.”

The hurricane season typically spans from June to November. So, while you can expect some amazing surfing during that time, you also need to take precautions against damage from the storms. 

Tsunamis are another concern for any area with volcanic or significant tectonic activity. Earthquakes—shifts in tectonic plates—can trigger waves miles away that become tsunamis. But the warning systems in place help protect against being caught unawares.

No significant tsunamis have impacted the islands since 1960.

7. Pro: Life in Hawai’i Isn’t As Materialistic

Generally speaking, Hawai’i residents are less materialistic than those living on the continent. Living an easy, happy life is a greater focus. For example, the make and model of the car you drive aren’t so important. But whether or not you offer someone a ride when they need it is.

8. Con: Less Selection On Some Goods

Because of its location, you won’t have as many options to choose from when it comes to imported goods. For example, the window for peaches (at their peak) is relatively small. If you’re looking for Philly Cheesesteak, you might not find it. Want locally sourced sushi—you’ll have more options than you can imagine. 

9. Pro: You Can Literally Live On The Beach

I lived on Malibu beach in the 80s with a bunch of friends, with little more than a tent and a bonfire. But you don’t need to go quite so rustic in Hawai’i. With more than 120 beaches across the major islands, you can live comfortably and still access the beach almost any time you want.

10. Con: Hawai’i Is Tough On Cars

When I was young, I thought cars only lasted two years. Because of the high humidity and high moisture content of the air, rust is always lurking around your car. Rust-proofing isn’t a nice to have; it’s a necessity. 

​​11. Pro: Hawai’i Is Perfect For Outdoor Enthusiasts

One of the things I love most about living in Hawai’i—or even just vacationing in Hawai’i— is the endless opportunity for exploration. The ever-changing landscape, shaped by lava flows, continually presents new trails and beaches to discover.

Spend just a few days exploring, and you’ll encounter everything from black sand beaches to bamboo forests. Enjoy a picturesque drive.

Or, my preferred way, explore on foot. The feeling of your feet on the land, of physically experiencing Hawai’i’s stunning beauty, can be life-changing. 

12. Con: Sudden Rainstorms

Personally, I don’t consider this a disadvantage of living in Hawai’i. I love the rain—and the rainy season. Yes, I’m one of those people…the dreaded pluviophile. If you know someone like that, chances are you’ve heard them say, “Hey, it’s raining! Let’s go outside!” However, not everyone shares my enthusiasm for the rain.

While Hawai’i enjoys warm and sunny weather most of the year, it does experience a rainy season. 

Between May and October, brief yet heavy showers can occur. If you plan to spend ample time outdoors, consider visiting during the dry season. 

Live on an island long enough, though, and you begin to hone your skills at sensing the change in humidity. Soon, you’ll intuitively go inside before it begins raining. 

13. Pro: Hawai’i Is Safe

As I mentioned earlier, Hawai’i is generally a safe place to live. I’ve always felt safe walking around any time of the day or night. 

But there will always be areas you’ll feel safer in than others. If you don’t feel safe somewhere, leave. 

14. Pro: Island Hopping Is Fun and Easy

Exploring the other islands in the Hawaiian archipelago, or broader Oceania, is easier, cheaper, and the flights are shorter than departing from the continental United States. 

You’ll never get bored. Just imagine – you can fly from Honolulu, Hawai’i, to Apia, Samoa, in about six hours! 

15. Con: Travel to the Continental U.S. Can Be Challenging 

Flying from Honolulu to New York is a bit of a trek. So if you plan on moving to the Hawaiian islands, trips back to the continental U.S. will require careful consideration and a significant chunk of change. 

But with a little pre-planning, traveling from Hawai’i to anywhere is pretty straightforward. Although, let’s be honest. If you live in Hawai’i, your family and friends in the continental U.S. will be coming to visit you as often as they can!

And trust me when I say don’t fly straight from Honolulu to Svalbard, Norway. LOL, You’re going to want to break that trip up. 

16. Pro: Local Produce

Because of Hawai’i’s climate, and the rich mineral deposits caused by volcanic eruptions, local produce is amazing.

Avocados, dragon fruit, mangos, papaya, coconut, and so much more are unlike anything you’ll taste anywhere else.

Check out local farmer’s markets, like the Hilo farmer’s market on Big Island, for the best locally grown produce—and to support local farmers. 

17. Con: Shipping Fees Can Get Costly

I mentioned this a little earlier, but it’s worth repeating: living on an island means you’ll pay extra for anything that isn’t locally produced—whether it’s consumables like fruits and vegetables or manufactured items like cars, furniture, clothing, etc.

By living locally and supporting local artisans, farmers, and craftspeople, you’ll not only avoid paying hefty shipping costs—you’ll also be supporting your community. It’s really a win-win. 

18. Pro: Everyone You’ve Ever Known Will Want To Visit You.

Friends you haven’t spoken with in twenty years will soon be knocking on your Hawaiian door. Plan for family and friends, and acquaintances to expect to stay with you. If they’re not close friends, you could always consider renting out a bedroom! 

19. Con: The. Tourist. Season.

Tourism is great for the economy, but living in a tourist area can translate into frustrating challenges. Festivals can block neighborhoods’ roads and mean sacrificing peaceful evenings.

Before moving to Hawai’i, consider what you’ll do during the tourist season. If you love activity, you might thrive during Hawai’i’s busiest time of year. Me? I’ll probably be chilling in the lava fields. 

20. Pro: Live Life At A Slower Pace

If you’ve had enough of the rat race and want to slow down, island life might be just what you’re looking for. 

Life on the islands is slower, and people are more laid back. For vacationers, it’s an ideal environment or relax and unwind. And working in a slower-paced environment helps to reduce unnecessary stressors. After a week of sun, surf, and sand, don’t be surprised if you never want to leave! 

Life in Hawai’i prioritizes connection with the people and with the land. And that connection contributes to a slower pace focusing more on what’s really important in life. 

Don’t be surprised if two cars stop mid-traffic to share a quick hello or a brief chat. That’s island life at its best. 

21. Con: Hawai’i Has A High Cost of Living

Yes, it will cost you more to live in Hawai’i. That’s true for any island locale. If you’re considering moving to Hawai’i, it’s important to prepare for a higher cost of living. 

22. Pro: You May Never Want To Leave Hawai’i

One of the best things about Hawai’i is that it has everything you need to live a joyful existence.

Hawai’i has the best people, incredible scenery and natural beauty, incredible food, arts, music, history, and a deep, rich culture. And that’s what makes Hawai’i so attractive to so many. If you decide to move to Hawai’i, you’ll never want to leave.

23. Con: Housing Prices Are Higher Than The National Average

Before I started EarthSurfer, I worked in the world of mortgages. Hawai’i, Alaska, California, and Massachusetts all rank among the highest-priced housing markets in the country.

Rents are more (comparatively) reasonable, but you’ll still pay more for an apartment in Waikiki than you would, for example, in northern Maine.

And it’s also important to remember that living on an island can mean limited access to available housing. After all, there are a limited number of places where you can build a house.

But housing prices are stable, making it a good place to invest in real estate. If you are planning on moving to Hawai’i, you might want to consider a duplex or triplex—live in one unit and rent out the others. 

24. Pro: Hawaiian Culture

From the first Polynesian settlers who settled in Hawai’i as early as 400 C.E., Hawaiian culture has adapted to the changing political and social landscape. Hawaiian culture remains vibrant, with deep roots expanding throughout much of Polynesia. 

A (very) brief history lesson about traditional Hawaiian culture

The traditional Hawaiian culture was based on a system of religious laws known as kapu. These laws governed many aspects of daily life, including food preparation, land ownership, and gender roles. This system was disrupted by the arrival of European colonizers in the late 18th century. The missionaries brought their own beliefs and customs, which some Hawaiians adopted while others continued to practice their traditional ways.

In 1893, Queen Liliʻuokalani was overthrown in a coup d’état orchestrated by American businessmen backed by U.S. military forces.

This event marked the beginning of a period of colonialism that lasted until 1959 when Hawai’i became an official state of the United States. During this time, many native Hawaiian traditions were lost or suppressed as Western values took precedence over indigenous ones.

Despite these challenges, native Hawaiians have continued to fight for their cultural rights and sovereignty throughout history.

In 1978, Congress passed the Hawaiian Home Lands Act, which provided Native Hawaiians with access to ancestral lands for homesteading purposes.

In 1993 President Clinton signed into law the Apology Resolution, which acknowledged the “overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawai’i,” past wrongs committed against Native Hawaiians and apologized on behalf of the U.S. government for its role in overthrowing Queen Liliʻuokalani’s monarchy in 1893.

Today, native Hawaiian culture continues to thrive despite centuries of colonialism and suppression. Traditional practices, such as hula dancing, surfing, lei making, lomi lomi massage therapy, and other forms of traditional Hawaiian medicine, are still practiced today alongside more modern activities like baseball and music festivals.

Many historical figures, such as Queen Liliʻuokalani, continue to be honored for their contributions to preserving Hawaiian culture despite adversity throughout history.

25. Con: Heavy “Americana” Influence in Certain Areas

Because Hawai’i is a popular tourist destination for many Americans from the continental United States, so there is a strong “Americana” presence across some parts of the islands.

If you don’t know where to look, this can make it more challenging to experience traditional cultural aspects of island life. But that’s what we’re here for!

Over the next few months, EarthSurfer will be sharing resources on how you can experience traditional Hawaiian culture and support local Hawaiian artisans, business owners, service providers, and even tour guides. 

26. Pro: Cultural Diversity 

Hawai’i is very culturally diverse. The beauty and love of the islands have attracted people from all over the world who now call Hawai’i their home. 

There’s a strong, vibrant Japanese culture in Hawai’i. So much so that many consider Hawai’i Japan’s 48th prefecture; you’ll find plenty of opportunities to speak Japanese in Hawai’i!

It’s also important to note that much of the diversity in Hawai’i stems from early plantation owners, like Dole, who brought in cheap labor from other countries to work in their factories and farms.

That diversity not only brought in workers from other cultures but also gave rise to the local “Hawaiian Pidgin” language. Hawaiian Pidgin is a beautiful blending of several languages that continues to evolve and grow today. 

27. Pro: Water Sports Are Great In Hawai’i

I adore surfing, especially in Hawai’i! There are numerous world-class breaks throughout the islands, which are far less crowded than those in California. Foiling? Absolutely. Kiteboarding? Certainly.

The same goes for paddleboarding, canoeing, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, spearfishing, boogie boarding, body surfing, and so on.

No matter how you wish to experience the ocean, you can do so from nearly all of Hawai’i’s islands. It’s no wonder that many professional athletes choose to reside here.

28. Con: The Ocean Can Be Overpowering

Yes, the ocean is beautiful, but living on an island means always respecting the power of the ocean. Too often, newcomers overlook the surrounding ocean’s intensity—which can be dangerous.

Because of Hawai’i’s geographic isolation, there are no barriers to weaken the force of incoming waves, wind, and swell. Rip currents and strong shore break are prevalent. 

Ocean drowning ranks as the fourth leading cause of injury-related fatalities in Hawai’i, affecting tourists and locals alike.

29. Pro: Finding A Job In Hawai’i Is Pretty Easy

More than nine million visitors come to Hawai’i each month, which means many job opportunities in Hawaii’s tourism sector. If you’re open to working in the hospitality, retail, or food and beverage industries, you can usually secure a job in Hawai’i relatively swiftly.

While there may be an abundance of jobs in the tourism sector, they don’t always provide sufficient income to handle the high cost of living. According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, an adult must earn $22.69/hour in the City & County of Honolulu just to make ends meet—excluding dining or entertainment expenses.

And many service jobs fall below this rate. So, it’s important to do the math. But it could be ideal if you’re looking for a working vacation.

30. Con: You’ll Need To Make An Effort To Be Part Of The Culture

While many people think Hawai’i will never accept non-Hawai’i-born residents as part of the island culture. That isn’t exactly accurate. 

The first thing to understand is that there is a huge difference between being “Hawaiian” and being “local.” 

The word “Hawaiian” refers to the indigenous peoples of the islands—those who are genealogically from Hawai’i—kanaka maoli. 

The word “Local” refers to those who were born on the island, grew up on the island, or have spent a very long time living there—and contribute to the island communities. 

Folks who move to Hawai’i are generally considered “residents” of Hawaii, or “kamaaina,” which translates as ‘child of the land.”

If you move to Hawai’i without getting involved in life on the island, you may never truly feel part of the community. But, on the other hand, if you put some of yourself back into the community because you genuinely want to ensure future generations can experience it, then you’ll not only feel a greater sense of connection to Hawai’i, but you’ll find yourself more and more a part of the broader Hawaiian culture. 

A great way to begin is by learning the beautiful Hawaiian language. ‘Ōlelo Hawai’i is (in my humble opinion) one of the most beautiful languages I’ve ever heard.

Admittedly, I am partial to island languages, but to me, spoken ‘Ōlelo Hawai’i is the sound of the islands. It’s one of those languages that seems to emanate from the environment in such a way that when you speak it, you feel like you’re speaking the island’s language. 

If you’ve never heard the Hawaiian language, check out the 2016 Moana—it has a Hawaiian language track. You can also pick up a copy of Harry Potter a me ka Pōhaku Akeakamai (Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone—Hawaiian Edition). 

Duolingo has a fun, free Hawaiian language program that will help you master a few basic phrases. I’ll also pull together a list of basic phrases and post them in the coming weeks to help you make the most of your time in Hawai’i. 

31. Pro: Not A Lot of Snakes

Are there snakes in Hawai’i? Technically, yes. 

Hawai’i is home to the Brahminy Blind Snake, a small black snake with a strong affinity for gardens. The Brahminy snake is a non-venomous snake that is about 6 inches long and looks like an earthworm.

While Hawai’i is also home to an assortment of bugs and other insects, it’s essentially snake-ree. Great for folk who suffer from ophidiophobia (fear of snakes).

32. Con:  Hawai’i Has a Large Transient Population

A lot of people move to Hawai’i, but few of them stay for the long haul. That can make it challenging for newcomers to make friends. It’s hard for locals to invest in someone they’ve just met who may decide to move back to the continent next year. 

33. Pro: Local Hawai’i Discount

Residents of Hawai’i can take advantage of discounts, including reduced rates to play golf in Waikiki, select restaurants, and other establishments. Proof of residence, such as a residence card or driver’s license, is often all that’s needed to save a little money. 

34. Pro: Good Wi-Fi

Like Japan, Hawai’i has lots of Wi-Fi and fast and reliable internet connectivity. You’ll also find a number of co-working spaces or places to work outside (get a spot in the shade).

35. Pro: Hawai’i Is A Great Place To Live Off-Grid

If the idea of solar panels and homegrown food excites you, Hawai’i has a lot to offer. If owning land and living off-the-grid is on your wishlist, you’ll find yourself in great company in Hawai’i.

Living on an island heightens awareness of limited resources, leading many Hawaiians to adopt sustainable lifestyles to varying extents.

Solar panels are a common sight on rooftops, with some homeowners generating sufficient power to disconnect from the grid. Others aim to lower their expensive electricity bills or power their electric vehicles, which are quite prevalent in Hawaii.

The Big Island is particularly known for its off-grid living culture. Some regions lack power and water infrastructure, while others receive ample rain and sunshine, making it viable to run a household without relying on public utilities.

Keep in mind, however, that certain Hawaiian areas are suitable for catchment systems, while others experience inconsistent rainfall. Thorough research is crucial to success!

36. Pro: The Best Things About Live In Hawai’i are Free

In Hawaii, a stunning beach is usually just a brief drive away— the type that some individuals spend their entire lives dreaming of visiting. For you, a trip to the beach could be a typical Tuesday—and it’s free!

Similarly, most hikes in Hawai’i are easily accessible, along with breathtaking coastal views, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountains. In other words, go outside and play.

37. Pro: Hawai’i Has Great Healthcare

Hawai’i boasts a high-quality healthcare system, with many facilities on O’ahu Island. The state is home to numerous hospitals and medical centers catering to the needs of both residents and visitors.

The Queen’s Medical Center, one of Hawai’i’s largest hospitals, is a nonprofit acute care facility in Honolulu. It offers a broad spectrum of medical services, such as emergency, surgery, and specialty care. The hospital also encompasses the Queen’s Medical Center West O’ahu, providing primary and specialty care services for the residents of the Leeward Coast.

Another prominent hospital in Hawai’i is the Kuakini Medical Center in Honolulu. This nonprofit acute care hospital provides various services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. Additionally, it houses the Kuakini Geriatric Care, specializing in elderly care.

Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, often called Kapiolani Hospital, is exclusively dedicated to women, infants, and children’s care in Honolulu. It offers encompass neonatal intensive care, pediatric care, and maternity care services.

Tripler Army Medical Center, also known as Tripler Hospital, is a military hospital in Honolulu operated by the United States Army. As the primary military hospital for the Pacific region, it offers a range of services like emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. Moreover, it functions as a teaching facility for the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

In addition to these larger hospitals, Hawai’i has several smaller medical facilities delivering vital healthcare services to residents. These include community health centers, urgent care clinics, and primary care clinics, serving diverse patients and communities.

Which Hawai’i Island Is Best To Move To?

Now that you’ve gone through our list of 35 pros and cons of living in Hawai’i, you might wonder which Hawai’i island is the best one to move to. 

Each of the main Hawai’i islands has a unique personality and offers a unique lifestyle. Let’s look at each one a little closer. 

Island of O’ahu—The Gathering Place

O’ahu, the most populous island, hosts the state capital, Honolulu. For those seeking a cosmopolitan atmosphere, O’ahu is the perfect choice. With its diverse population, the island offers an excellent opportunity to connect with people from global backgrounds. O’ahu is also the most developed Hawai’i, with urban centers such as Honolulu.

Kaua’i Island—The Garden Isle

Kaua’i is the ideal choice for those seeking a calmer and more leisurely way of life and somewhere less developed. The island is smaller i