Cost of Living in Hawaii

Hawaii has a cost of living index of 157, making it 57% more expensive than the national average. The statewide median household income is $94,535 (26% above the US median of $75,149). Across 157 cities tracked in Hawaii, costs vary widely depending on location, proximity to metro areas, and local housing markets.

Housing drives most of the variation. The average median rent across Hawaii cities is $1,962/mo (49% above the national median of $1,319), and the average median home value is $767,538 (152% above the national figure of $304,900). There is a 123-point spread between the most affordable city, Hawaiian Paradise Park (index 110), and the most expensive, East Honolulu (index 234) — an enormous range that reflects dramatic differences in housing markets within the state.

While Hawaii is expensive, the higher median income partially offsets these costs. Prospective residents should evaluate specific cities, since some areas within the state are significantly more affordable than others.

The largest cities in Hawaii by population are Urban Honolulu (index 161, pop. 346,323), East Honolulu (index 234, pop. 50,961), Hilo (index 117, pop. 48,223), Pearl City (index 181, pop. 45,079), and Waipahu (index 156, pop. 39,871). Cost of living varies considerably even among these major population centers, highlighting the importance of comparing individual cities rather than relying on the state average alone.

Data: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow, HUD, BEA Regional Price Parities. Updated monthly.