Honolulu, the vibrant capital of Hawaii, is often considered a dream destination. With its breathtaking beaches, year round warm weather, and a laid back island lifestyle, it’s no wonder people are drawn to the idea of moving to Honolulu. Whether you’re relocating for a fresh start, a career move, or simply craving island life, this city offers a unique blend of urban convenience and tropical paradise.
But before you pack your bags, it’s essential to understand what life in Honolulu truly entails. The cost of living, local culture, and everyday logistics can be quite different from mainland life. Here’s all about Honolulu and things to know before moving to Honolulu so you can be fully prepared.
Cost of Living in Honolulu
Honolulu is often ranked as one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. due to its remote location and high demand for housing.
- Housing Costs: Renting a one bedroom apartment costs $2,000–$3,000 per month, while home prices often exceed $800,000. Suburban areas like Kapolei and Ewa Beach offer slightly more affordable options.
- Utilities & Groceries: Since most goods are imported, prices are high—milk costs $6 per gallon, eggs $5 per dozen, and fresh produce 50% more than mainland prices. Electricity bills average $300 per month, 2.5 times the U.S. average.
- Taxes: Hawaii’s state income tax ranges from 1.4% to 11%, but property taxes are among the lowest at 0.28%. Sales tax is 4.5%, lower than many mainland states.
- Budgeting Tips: Locals save money by shopping at Costco and farmers’ markets, sharing housing, and maintaining multiple income streams. A well planned budget is essential for a comfortable lifestyle.
Island Lifestyle & Culture
One of the benefits of living in Honolulu is its strong sense of community, cultural diversity, and the aloha spirit, which shapes daily life. Nearly 80% of residents come from diverse backgrounds.
Aloha Spirit & Pace of Life
Honolulu’s culture values kindness, respect, and a slower pace of life. The ohana concept extends beyond relatives, fostering a strong sense of community. Many businesses close early to encourage work life balance.
Diversity & Local Etiquette
The city is 54% Asian, 10% Native Hawaiian, 22% White, and 14% mixed race, reflecting a rich cultural mix. Events like the Honolulu Festival celebrate this diversity. Respecting Hawaiian traditions, learning basic phrases like: Aloha and Mahalo, and removing shoes before entering homes help with integration.
Climate & Weather
Honolulu enjoys 271 sunny days per year, but the tropical climate comes with challenges.
Tropical Weather & Hurricanes
Temperatures average 80°F year round, with varying rainfall—Mānoa Valley gets 150 inches annually, while Waikiki sees only 20 inches. Hurricane season runs June–November, though direct hits are rare, with Hurricane Iniki (1992) being the last major storm.
Humidity & Sun Exposure
Humidity often exceeds 75%, and strong sun exposure requires precautions. Staying hydrated, using SPF 50+ sunscreen, and wearing light clothing are essential for comfort.
Employment & Economy
Honolulu’s economy is diverse, but competition for jobs can be fierce. The unemployment rate in 2023 was 3.2%, slightly below the U.S. average.
Job Market
Tourism, the military, healthcare, and education dominate the job market. Nearly 20% of Honolulu’s jobs are tied to the tourism industry, with over 10 million visitors annually. Finding employment before relocating is highly recommended.
Remote Work & Business
The rise of remote work has made living in Honolulu more feasible for those with flexible jobs. However, Honolulu is 5-6 hours behind Eastern Standard Time, which can pose challenges for mainland based work.
Wages vs. Cost of Living
While wages in Hawaii are higher than in many mainland states, they often don’t fully offset the high cost of living. The average salary in Honolulu is $58,000 per year, compared to the national average of $68,000. It’s important to negotiate a competitive salary before moving.
Transportation & Traffic
Getting around Honolulu requires some planning, as the city has one of the most congested traffic systems in the country. Honolulu ranks among the top 10 worst cities for traffic in the U.S., with commuters spending an average of 64 hours per year in congestion.
Public Transit
TheBus is Honolulu’s main public transit, with a $80 monthly pass offering a cost effective alternative to driving. The Honolulu Rail Transit, set for completion in 2031, aims to reduce travel time by 40%.
Car vs. No Car
Owning a car can be convenient, but parking is limited and expensive, especially in downtown Honolulu. The average cost of parking in the city center is $200 per month, and gas prices hover around $4.50 per gallon, which is higher than the national average of $3.80.
Traffic Issues
Honolulu has some of the worst U.S. traffic, especially during rush hours (6:30–8:30 AM & 3:30–6:30 PM). The H 1 Freeway and Nimitz Highway are the most congested, making flexible schedules or living near work ideal.
Outdoor Activities & Recreation
Honolulu is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering year round access to beaches, mountains, and lush landscapes. Over 70% of Honolulu residents participate in outdoor activities regularly, making it one of the most active cities in the U.S.
Beaches & Surfing
Famous beaches like Waikiki, Lanikai, and North Shore offer world class surfing, snorkeling, and relaxation. Waikiki Beach alone attracts over 4 million visitors annually, making it one of the most famous beaches in the world. Surfing is deeply ingrained in Hawaiian culture, and if you’re new to the sport, lessons start at around $50 per hour.
Hiking & Nature
From Diamond Head Crater to Manoa Falls, the island is full of scenic trails and breathtaking views. Oahu has over 200 hiking trails, ranging from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs like Olomana Three Peaks. The best months for hiking are April to October, when rainfall is lower, and trails are less muddy.
Community Events
Farmers’ markets, hula festivals, and local fairs are integral to life in Honolulu, offering plenty of opportunities to engage with the community. The Aloha Festivals and Honolulu Marathon are two of the largest annual events, drawing over 30,000 participants and spectators from around the world.
Schools & Education
Honolulu has 295 public schools serving 170,000+ students, plus highly ranked private schools.
Public vs. Private Schools
While public schools serve many families, they rank 35th in the U.S. for overall quality. Some of the top rated public schools include Momilani Elementary School and Kalani High School. Private institutions such as Punahou School and Iolani School are highly rated but come with steep tuition costs, ranging from $20,000 to $30,000 per year.
Higher Education
The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the state’s leading institution, offering diverse programs and research opportunities. With over 17,000 students enrolled, it ranks among the top 150 public universities in the U.S.. Other colleges, like Hawaii Pacific University and Chaminade University, provide additional educational opportunities.
Healthcare & Safety
Living in Honolulu means access to good healthcare and relatively low crime rates. The city has a life expectancy of 82 years, one of the highest in the U.S.
Hospitals & Clinics
Honolulu has several well equipped hospitals, including The Queen’s Medical Center, the state’s top rated facility. Other notable hospitals include Straub Medical Center and Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Healthcare costs are about 20% higher than the national average, with an individual insurance plan averaging $500 per month.
Crime Rate
Honolulu is generally safe, though petty crime like car break ins can be an issue, particularly in tourist heavy areas. The crime rate is 24% lower than the national average, but property crime, such as theft and burglary, remains a concern. The safest neighborhoods include Hawaii Kai, Manoa, and Kailua, while areas like Waikiki and Chinatown have higher crime rates.
Moving Logistics
Moving to Honolulu requires extra planning due to its location. The cost of moving to Honolulu ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on household size and shipping method.
Shipping Belongings
Since Hawaii is an island, moving belongings requires either sea freight or air freight. Sea freight through companies like Matson and Pasha Hawaii is the most cost effective option, with a 20 foot shipping container costing around $5,000 from the mainland. Air freight is faster but can be three times more expensive.
Finding Housing
The best neighborhoods vary based on lifestyle. Waikiki is ideal for city lovers, while Kailua and Ewa Beach offer a more suburban feel. The rental vacancy rate is only 3.5%, so competition for housing is fierce. Expect to pay a security deposit equal to one month’s rent when signing a lease.
Permits & Regulations
Hawaii has strict quarantine laws for pets, so if you’re bringing a furry friend, plan ahead. The 5 Day Or Less Program allows pets to avoid a 120 day quarantine if proper paperwork and vaccinations are completed before arrival.
Is Honolulu a Good Place to Live?
Moving to Honolulu is an exciting adventure, but proper planning is key. Additionally, adapting to the slower pace of life, unique climate, and high expenses will make the experience more enjoyable.
If you’re planning a move, Ewa Moving Co. can make the process easier. As one of Honolulu’s most trusted moving companies, they specialize in seamless island relocations. With their top rated customer service and affordable moving options, you can enjoy a hassle free transition.
Paradise is waiting—start planning your move today!
