The 3 Most Expensive Hawaiian Islands To Live On — and the 2 Cheapest
Written by
Caitlyn Moorhead
Edited by
Sean Fisher
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
If lately you’ve been feeling like maybe island living is the way to a better you, it might be time to see just how much your finances can cover living in Hawaii.
However, the state isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to affordability, as home prices and cost of living can vary widely from island to island. Here’s a breakdown of the three most expensive Hawaiian islands to live on, followed by the three cheapest.
Most Expensive: Oahu
As the economic hub of Hawaii and home to Honolulu, Oahu has one of the highest costs of living among the islands. The average home value is $773,168, which is up 6% over the last year, with areas like Waikiki and Manoa being particularly pricey. The island’s bustling urban life and amenities come with a steep price tag, too, with a cost of living that’s much higher than the national average.
Most Expensive: Maui
Known for its luxurious resorts and breathtaking beaches, Maui is a close second in terms of living costs. The average home value is around $1.1 million, which is up 2.7% from last year, with the cost of goods and services being higher due to its popularity as a tourist destination. If you’re in the market for a home in the million-dollar range, this could be doable, however, if Maui is on your dream-house list, it’s one of the most expensive places to live in Hawaii.
Most Expensive: Kauai
The Garden Isle may offer a more laid-back lifestyle but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with a cost. With an average home price of approximately $968,015, it makes it one of the most expensive places to buy a home. The island’s remote location also contributes to high prices for groceries and other essentials, giving you a cost of living that’s going to put a pinch on the money in your pocket.
Least Expensive: Moloka’i
With a median listing price of about $344,000 and a median sold home price of about $284,500, Moloka’i is the cheapest Hawaiian island to buy a home. Moloka’i is known for its rural charm and slower pace of life, making it the cheapest Hawaiian island to live on. It offers a more affordable option for those looking to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty without the high costs.
Least Expensive: Hawaii (Big Island) — Puna District
While the Big Island as a whole can be expensive, especially in resort areas like Kona, the Puna District offers some of the most affordable living in Hawaii. The average home price in the Big Island as a whole is just under $950,000, so the fact that the Puna District has a median home listing of around $423,000 seems like a reasonable price tag for cheaper Hawaiian living.
Final Take To GO
The cost of living in Hawaii varies widely across its islands. Each piece of paradise offers its own unique lifestyle and amenities, so it’s no surprise that it comes with steep housing costs to boot. It’s important to consider your priorities and budget when deciding where to live in Hawaii, but it’s good to know there are still areas where you can financially figure it out.
More From GOBankingRates
