Owing to the laid-back culture and magical landscapes of Hawaii, it’s no wonder that moving to this tropical destination is the dream of many. But, let’s be honest, the extravagant cost of living in this Island state is something you cannot overlook.
Hawaii is counted amongst the expensive US States to reside in and what exactly restricts expats from relocating is the sky-high property rates. Loving the idea of spending the whole life in the lap of Nature without costing a dime? Fret not as we’ve got you the rundown of the cheapest places to live in Hawaii.
Let’s dive right in!!
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A Quick Overview Of 12 Most Affordable Places To Reside In Hawaii
1. Wailuku
Wailuku sits at the tip of the beautiful Lao Valley and is steeped in history and culture. Brimming up with exciting outdoor activities, this city is an ideal choice for individuals with an adrenaline rush. What actually makes it worthy of consideration is its blissful vibes and affordable living expenses.
The median home value in Wailuku is approximately $598,000 and the overall living cost is 11% less than the state’s average.
2. Hilo
Hilo is home to endless natural beauty and casts a magical spell on the nature buffs around the world. Located on the northeastern side of the Hawaiian Island, it is the gateway to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
One will be surprised to know that the living cost in Hilo is around 28% lower than the state’s average and this is exactly what makes it the least expensive place to live in Hawaii. You can easily own a house in Hilo for around $346,400.
3. Kaunakakai
Get tired of the chaos of the metropolitan cities and hunting for a tranquil place with harmonious vibes? Well, in that case, Kaunakakai might be for you. Sits peacefully on the Molokai’s south shores, this city takes you back to the simpler time with no hustle and bustle.
This town is just three blocks in size with bygone aesthetics. The average living cost in Kaunakakai is around 53% less than the state’s average. Expats can easily purchase a home in this town for around $284,600.
4. Laie
Home to approximately 6000 residents, Laie is one of the dazzling laid-back coastal towns on the Island of Oahu. Although it sounds small and uneventful at first glance, the reality is far away from assumption.
This town is packed with white-sandy beaches where you can take a leisure stroll and several green spaces to witness the beautiful sunsets. Although Laie’s median home value of $974,500 is higher than the state’s average, its average household income is around $81,948 and that’s what makes it an affordable option.
5. Kurtistown
If you have an urge to enjoy a rural feel amidst the true colors of Nature, then buy yourself a home in Kurtistown and feel serenity like never before. Referred to be one of the most agriculturally productive towns on Big Island, Kurtistown boasts innumerable botanical gardens to mesmerize nature enthusiasts from far and wide.
This beguiling place offers a lush, tropical setting which is not less than a treasure for explorers and will surely bring you closer to Mother Nature. The median home value in Kurtistown is around $323,000.
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6. Kailua-Kona
The sunny seaside capital of Big Island, Kailua-Kona is counted amongst the cheapest places to live in Hawaii for many good reasons. Housing is much affordable in this beautiful town and one can easily own his dream home for just over $500,000. It is believed that the cost of living in Kailua-Kona is around 11% lower than the average. Isn’t it amazing?
Located in the heart of the Kona district on the Western Coast of the Big Island, this dazzling place is stuffed with miles of sun-soaked sand, azure beaches, crystal clear waters, and coastlines. If you are a beach bum and want to enjoy close proximity to beaches, then Kailua-Kona is exactly what you are searching for.
7. Kahului
The most urban town of Maui, Kahului packs a powerful punch of breathtakingly beautiful sights and allows the magical landscape to fill your senses with awe. It is home to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center and showcases the perfect amalgamation of the modern town with traditional values.
Moreover, this town is safe and sound and this is exactly what makes it stands out. The average living cost in Kahului is around 9% less than the state’s average and the median home value is $620,700.
8. Waimea
One of the smallest Hawaiian towns to live in, the historic area of Waimea still features traditional ranches, cowboys, and cattle. Lies amidst the beach and Waimea Canon, it is a stone’s throw from the place where the famous British discoverer Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii.
The living cost in Waimea is approximately 22% less than the state’s average. It is a gateway to the spellbinding Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon. This charming small town is home to a variety of shops and restaurants where you can savour the local delectables and tickle your taste buds.
The housing is extremely affordable in Waimea as one can easily own a home for less than $400,000.
9. Wahiawa
Located in close proximity with the Bewitching North Shore, Wahiawa is one of the well-known affordable places to live in Hawaii. Situated in the Oahu’s central valley amidst two sky-high mountain ranges, this town is flanked by Lake Wilson on three sides.
It is one of the oldest neighbourhoods on Oahu and is famed for having a massive maze where people can enjoy a leisure stroll. Own a home in Wahiawa for around $618,100 and enjoy captivating sights and enjoy picturesque sunset views.
10. Waianae
Stuffed with scenic beaches, abundant marine life, and majestic valleys, Waianae is yet another beautiful and budget-friendly place to reside in Hawaii. It is an excellent choice for those who wish to live in Oahu without burning a hole in their wallet.
The cost of living in Waianae is about 11% less than the national average with a median home value of $322,000.
11. Hana
Located along Maui’s rugged eastern coastline, Hana is adorned with an old-Hawaii charm and is considered the last unspoiled Hawaiian frontiers. This little town is blessed with a range of tropical gardens and natural spectacles.
Before actually relocating to this tiny land in the midst of the ocean, keep in mind the fact that it is highly secluded with no proximity to the big cities. One can easily own a home in this remote area for just about $526,400. Residing in this city is a feasible option as the overall cost of living here is around 21% less than the state’s average.
12. Pahala
Let’s wrap up the list with the charming town of Pahala that sits exquisitely on Big Island, the cheapest Hawaiian island to live on. Snuggled between the beautiful Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and lush Kau Forest Reserve, this seaside town is bestowed with stunning landscapes and magical scenery.
The median home value in Pahala is about $177,600, which is much lower than the state’s average. If you wish to get away from the tiresome and mundane urban life, then relocate to this beautiful town without thinking twice and feel the rustic charm.
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Pros & Cons Of Living In Hawaii
Living in the Aloha State is indeed a dream-come-true as who on this planet doesn’t love to enjoy a lifetime vacation? Getting fascinated? Before making any decision, bear in mind the fact that Hawaii is not always about rainbows and butterflies. Life in the Aloha State comes with both pros and cons.
Figure them out and only then determine whether this US State goes well with your expectations or not.
Pros:
- Tropical and Soothing Weather
Hawaii is known to have a diverse and tropical climate throughout the year. It is home to 11 of the 13 sub-climates which means that it boasts a perfect environment to live in.
- Hawaiian is a melting pot of culture
Hawaiian Culture showcases a perfect blend of unique traditional values and ethnic influences. It impacts everything from fashion and cuisine to language and religion. Hawaiian residents are trying to maintain their regular lifestyles from their anciently-designed homes.
- Fascinating Views and Bunch of Outdoor Activities
Hawaii is one of the most alluring US states to live in. It is endowed with an impressive array of outdoor activities and spectacular vistas and thus caters to everyone, be it an outdoor fanatic or a nature buff. While living in Hawaii, you will never run out of adventures.
- Low crime rate
Hawaii is counted amongst the handful of places in the US where the crime rate is relatively low. Issues like homicide and armed robberies are rare throughout the state; after all, you are on the set of islands in the middle of the ocean.
Cons:
- The cost of living in Hawaii is significantly higher
Although the good life comes at a higher price, you are likely to pay much more than expected. The Aloha State is counted amongst the most expensive locations to reside in the US, all thanks to the magical sights and immense popularity.
However, there are loopholes for everything and Hawaii is no exception. Finding the cheapest places to live in Hawaii might be intimidating but not impossible. There are several affordable places to put down your roots in this state.
- Lack of waste management system
Since Hawaii is an archipelago of hundreds of islands, it lacks the proper waste management system. Either you have to ship your trash or burn the same. There are virtually no recycle bins on the street, which is an added disadvantage.
Cheapest Places To Live in Hawaii FAQs
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Hawaii?
Let’s be honest, Hawaii is one of the pricey destinations to live in and, therefore, one should need a whooping salary over $125,000 with an extravagant budget. Keep in mind the fact that the state has one of the highest income tax rates in the country and hence, an excellent salary and a good financial back-up are mandatory to live comfortably in Hawaii.
Is it easy to find work in Hawaii?
Hawaii is an island state and, therefore, finding jobs or work is really a back-breaking task, even for the skilful professional. This state has one of the lowest employment rates in the country, owing to the lack of jobs.
Related: Hawaii from Mainland (Moving Guide)
The Bottom Line
Wish to spend the rest of your life amidst quixotic beauty and natural ambiance? Consider one of the cheapest places to live in Hawaii as mentioned above and enjoy the timeless charm without emptying your bank balance.
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