Living in Hawaii: the ultimate expat guide

Hawaii's job market presents both opportunities and challenges for newcomers. While the state maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation, the economy is heavily concentrated in specific sectors. Understanding these dynamics is essential before planning your professional move to the islands.

Employment landscape and key industries

As of 2025, Hawaii's unemployment rate stands at 2.7%, the third lowest in the United States. The civilian labor force includes approximately 687,600 people, with about 652,200 non-agricultural wage and salary jobs. The private sector continues to add jobs, with growth concentrated in specific industries.

Tourism and hospitality remain the economic backbone, though this sector primarily offers seasonal and entry-level positions. Healthcare and social assistance is the fastest-growing sector, projected to grow by 12.7% through 2032 and accounting for nearly one-quarter of all new positions. The construction industry reached record employment of 41,300 jobs in 2025, driven by ongoing development projects. Military and defense also provides significant employment, given Hawaii's strategic Pacific location.

Salaries and work permits

The average weekly wage in Honolulu is $1,412, with annual salaries averaging between $52,000 and $81,000 depending on the occupation and source. The state minimum wage is $14.00 per hour in 2025, increasing to $16.00 per hour on January 1, 2026. However, the MIT Living Wage Calculator indicates a single adult needs approximately $29.92 per hour to cover basic expenses in Hawaii.

For international workers, standard US work authorization applies. This typically requires employer sponsorship for an H-1B visa for specialty occupations, or other appropriate visa categories. The healthcare and technology sectors most commonly sponsor international workers.

Sources: Hawaii DBEDT, US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Hawaii offers quality higher education options, anchored by the University of Hawaii system. International students and newcomers will find established programs across multiple campuses, though options are more limited than in larger mainland states.

University of Hawaii system

The University of Hawaii at Mānoa (UHM) serves as the flagship research institution, located in Honolulu. As a Research 1 university, it offers over 200 degree programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly recognized for programs in marine biology, astronomy, Asian studies, and tropical agriculture, reflecting Hawaii's unique geographic and cultural position.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, undergraduate tuition at UHM is $12,186 for Hawaii residents and $34,218 for out-of-state and international students. Graduate tuition runs $16,502 for residents and $34,550 for non-residents. The total cost of attendance, including housing and living expenses, reaches approximately $32,316 for in-state and $54,348 for out-of-state students annually.

Other institutions and community colleges

The UH system includes University of Hawaii at Hilo on the Big Island and University of Hawaii West Oahu, both offering four-year degrees at lower costs than the flagship campus. Seven community colleges across the islands provide associate degrees and vocational training, serving as affordable entry points into the higher education system.

Students from Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) participating states may qualify for reduced tuition at 150% of resident rates. Citizens from Freely Associated States (Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of Palau) now pay in-state tuition rates as of 2024.

Approximately 54% of UHM undergraduates receive grants or scholarships, with average aid of $7,779 per student. International students can explore limited scholarship opportunities through individual departments and the financial aid office.

Sources: University of Hawaii System, UHM Financial Aid Services

Hawaii attracts retirees from around the world with its warm climate, natural beauty, and relaxed lifestyle. While the high cost of living requires careful financial planning, several factors make Hawaii an appealing retirement destination for those with adequate resources.

Healthcare and quality of life

Hawaii boasts the highest life expectancy in the United States at 86.5 years. US News ranked Hawaii #1 for both healthcare access and quality, making it particularly attractive for retirees concerned about medical care. Oahu offers the most comprehensive healthcare facilities, including major hospitals like The Queen's Medical Center and Straub Medical Center. Neighbor islands have adequate medical services but may require travel to Oahu for specialized treatments.

The Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act, enacted in 1974, requires most employers to provide health insurance, creating a strong healthcare infrastructure. Medicare functions normally in Hawaii, and supplemental plans are widely available.

Tax considerations for retirees

Hawaii offers significant tax advantages for certain retirement income. Social Security benefits are not taxed at the state level. Employer-funded pension distributions, including government and military pensions, are exempt from state income tax. However, distributions from self-funded accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are subject to Hawaii state income tax.

Property taxes are among the lowest in the nation, with an effective rate of just 0.32%. Various exemption programs reduce taxable assessed value for owner-occupied homes and offer additional exemptions for seniors aged 60+. These exemptions vary by county.

Retirement visa and residency

As Hawaii is a US state, American citizens face no visa requirements. For international retirees, standard US immigration rules apply. The US does not offer a specific retirement visa, so international retirees typically need to qualify through other immigration pathways or limit stays to the 90-day Visa Waiver Program (for eligible countries) or standard tourist visas allowing 6-month stays.

Sources: DeWitt Move, Unbiased

Families relocating to Hawaii will find a robust education system spanning public schools, private institutions, and specialized programs. Understanding the options helps parents make informed decisions for their children's education.

Public school system

Hawaii operates a statewide public school system, unique among US states as the only one without local school districts. The Hawaii Department of Education oversees approximately 297 public schools serving around 169,308 students. Public education is free and follows American curriculum standards, with instruction primarily in English.

School enrollment typically requires proof of residency, immunization records, and previous school transcripts. The academic year runs from early August through late May, differing from many mainland schedules.

Private and international schools

Hawaii has an unusually high rate of private school attendance, with 20% of all K-12 students enrolled in private institutions compared to the national average of 10%. The state hosts 138 private schools serving approximately 41,301 students.

Top-ranked private schools include Punahou School and Iolani School in Honolulu, both highly selective institutions with rigorous academics. Hawaii Preparatory Academy on the Big Island offers boarding options. Le Jardin Academy in Kailua provides International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, making it attractive for internationally mobile families.

Average private school tuition runs $15,719 for elementary and $18,354 for high school annually. However, elite schools command significantly higher fees, with some exceeding $25,000 per year. Many private schools offer financial aid, and approximately 67% of Hawaii's private schools are religiously affiliated, primarily Catholic or Christian.

The student-teacher ratio averages 11:1 in private schools, and minority enrollment is 72%, reflecting Hawaii's diverse population. Parents should apply well in advance, as admissions for top schools often have waiting lists.

Sources: Private School Review, Hawaii Association of Independent Schools

Housing represents the largest expense for most Hawaii residents, with prices significantly exceeding mainland averages. Understanding the market variations across islands and neighborhoods helps newcomers find suitable accommodations within their budget.

Rental market overview

Rental prices vary dramatically by location. In Honolulu, the state's most expensive market, a one-bedroom apartment averages $2,600-$3,174 per month, while two-bedroom units run approximately $3,463. Premium areas like Waikiki can reach $2,600-$3,000 for one-bedroom apartments.

More affordable options exist on other islands. Hilo on the Big Island offers one-bedroom apartments averaging just $1,263 per month, making it the most budget-friendly option for renters. Kihei on Maui falls in between, with rents around $4,035 monthly for some units.

Rental applications typically require proof of income (usually 2-3 times monthly rent), security deposits (commonly one month's rent), and references. The rental market moves quickly, especially in popular areas, so be prepared to act fast when you find suitable housing.

Home buying considerations

For those considering purchasing, median home prices reflect Hawaii's premium market. East Honolulu median home prices reach approximately $1.2 million, while Kapolei on Oahu's west side comes in around $865,400. Hilo remains most accessible at approximately $463,400 median price.

One silver lining for homeowners: Hawaii has some of the lowest property tax rates in the nation, with an effective rate of just 0.32%, ranking 50th nationally. Various exemption programs exist for primary residences and seniors.

Expat-friendly neighborhoods

On Oahu, Kailua on the windward side offers a family-friendly atmosphere with excellent beaches and good schools, though housing costs are substantial. Hawaii Kai provides suburban living with ocean access. For urban living, Kakaako features newer high-rise developments popular with young professionals. Pearl City and Aiea offer more affordable suburban options with decent commute access to Honolulu.

Sources: Numbeo, Apartment List

Hawaii offers an extraordinary range of recreational, cultural, and entertainment options, from world-class beaches to unique cultural experiences. The islands' natural beauty and multicultural heritage create endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Outdoor activities and natural attractions

Beaches define the Hawaiian lifestyle. Waikiki Beach in Honolulu offers accessible swimming and surfing, while the North Shore of Oahu draws professional surfers for its winter waves. Hanauma Bay provides exceptional snorkeling with abundant marine life. Each island features distinctive beach experiences, from Maui's golden sands to the Big Island's black sand beaches.

Hiking opportunities abound across all islands. Diamond Head crater offers a popular, accessible trail with panoramic views of Honolulu. More challenging hikes include Kalalau Trail on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. The Big Island's Hawaii Volcanoes National Park provides unique opportunities to witness active volcanic activity and walk through lava tubes.

Water sports extend beyond swimming: surfing lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving, and whale watching (December-April) are readily available. Golf enthusiasts enjoy numerous courses, many with ocean views.

Cultural experiences and entertainment

Hawaiian culture remains central to island life. Traditional luaus offer authentic food, music, and hula performances. The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu's north shore presents the cultures of Hawaii and other Pacific Islands through interactive experiences.

Museums include the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, housing extensive Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts, and the Honolulu Museum of Art. Historic sites like Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on US soil, and Pearl Harbor National Memorial provide important historical context.

Nightlife centers on Honolulu, particularly Waikiki and Chinatown, with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Each island hosts festivals throughout the year, from the Merrie Monarch Festival celebrating hula to cultural celebrations honoring Hawaii's diverse ethnic communities.

Farmers markets and local events

Weekly farmers markets operate across all islands, offering fresh tropical fruits, local produce, prepared foods, and crafts. The KCC Farmers Market on Saturday mornings near Diamond Head is among the most popular on Oahu.

Adjusting to daily life in Hawaii involves understanding the unique rhythms of island living, from transportation options to cultural expectations. The pace of life tends to be more relaxed than major mainland cities, often described as operating on "island time."

Getting around: Transportation options

On Oahu, public transportation is viable through TheBus, the island's extensive bus network, and the new Skyline rail system. TheBus operates approximately 70+ routes across the island, with fares of $3.00 per ride (cash) or $80 monthly using a HOLO card. The Skyline rail, which began expanded service in October 2025, connects West Oahu to Downtown Honolulu, with trains running every 10 minutes during peak hours.

Honolulu has a walk score of 66, transit score of 56, and bike score of 51, making it one of the more pedestrian-friendly US cities. However, most residents still rely on personal vehicles. Gas prices average $4.47 per gallon, significantly above the national average of $3.13.

On neighbor islands (Maui, Big Island, Kauai), having a car is essential. Public transportation exists but is limited. Each island has a bus system, but service frequency and coverage vary considerably.

Cultural adaptation and lifestyle

Daily life reflects Hawaii's multicultural heritage. Local food features influences from Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Native Hawaiian cuisines. Plate lunches, poke bowls, and spam musubi are everyday staples. Groceries cost significantly more than the mainland, with an average weekly food bill of $333.88 compared to the national average of $270.21.

Social etiquette emphasizes respect and community. Removing shoes before entering homes is customary. The local pidgin dialect may take time to understand. Most residents dress casually, with aloha shirts acceptable even in business settings.

Shopping centers like Ala Moana Center in Honolulu and various Costco locations help manage costs. Farmers markets throughout the islands offer fresh, locally-grown produce at reasonable prices.

Sources: TheBus, Honolulu DTS, ConsumerAffairs

Hawaii consistently ranks as the most expensive state in the United States, with a cost of living index of approximately 193.3, nearly double the national average. Understanding these costs is crucial for budget planning before making the move.

Monthly budget for a single person

A single adult in Hawaii can expect to spend approximately $3,076 per month on basic expenses, excluding savings. Housing dominates the budget, with one-bedroom apartments in Honolulu averaging $2,600+ monthly. Utilities run exceptionally high due to Hawaii's reliance on imported energy, with electricity costs at 44.81 cents per kilowatt-hour compared to the national average of 17.01 cents.

Food costs approximately $467 per month for a single person when cooking at home. Dining out is expensive, with casual meals averaging $23.50 and mid-range restaurant meals around $100 for two. Transportation costs vary but expect $350-450 monthly for a car including insurance, gas, and registration.

Monthly budget for a family of four

Families face substantially higher costs. A family of four requires an estimated $120,000-$200,000 annually to live comfortably, depending on location and lifestyle choices. Housing for larger units (3+ bedrooms) can exceed $4,000 monthly in Honolulu. School fees add significantly if choosing private education.

Sources: Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator, ConsumerAffairs