Finest Locations to Dwell in Hawaii

Aloha!

Hawaii. You actually don’t must say greater than that. Everybody just about has the identical imaginative and prescient once they hear that phrase—excellent climate, stunning sandy seashores, inexperienced jungles and good individuals. Who wouldn’t need to transfer to an island paradise?

Should you’re studying this, you is perhaps one of many fortunate ones who must make a transfer to the Aloha State (and switch the remainder of us resentful). Perhaps you’ve gotten a job that’s taking you there. Or perhaps you went there for trip and suppose it will be nice to simply stay on trip. We’ve obtained you lined with some useful suggestions in your relocation journey. So follow your “grasp unfastened” shaka and let’s check out a number of the finest locations to stay in Hawaii.¹

E komo mai (welcome)!

Finest Locations to Dwell on the Huge Island (Hawaii)
Finest Locations to Dwell on Maui
Finest Locations to Dwell on Oahu
Finest Locations to Dwell on Kauai

Finest Locations to Dwell in Hawaii

Except you’ve been dwelling on a abandoned island your self, you most likely know that the state of Hawaii is a sequence of eight main islands within the Pacific Ocean—over 2,000 miles from the mainland United States. It’s additionally the youngest state within the union, attaining statehood in 1959 (Alaska beat them by six months!).

You’ve additionally most likely heard that life in Hawaii is fairly superior throughout. In every single place on the islands is a literal paradise surrounded by seashores, pure magnificence, and climate that not often will get under 70 levels, even in winter. This makes for nice outside actions year-round each on and off the seaside. The variety of wildlife is simply as wonderful (there are many bugs on the islands, however there aren’t any snakes). And the Hawaiian individuals create a welcoming place, courtesy of the “spirit of aloha”—training hospitality and unbelievable generosity, treating everybody they meet like ohana (household).

Due to its standing as America’s island paradise, Hawaii is a premier vacationer vacation spot. In actual fact, tourism is the state’s high business regardless of which island you land on—adopted by agriculture, manufacturing and the army.²

However really dwelling in paradise ain’t low cost. See, Hawaii is remoted and doesn’t have the assets to make plenty of the issues individuals want, so a lot of stuff must be imported. Fuel, meals, clothes, utilities—the whole lot you should stay goes to value extra. Even issues like automobile and residential insurance coverage. Between the price of dwelling and the excessive taxes (third-worst state and native tax burdens), Hawaii is the most costly state in America!^3,4 So most Hawaiians have discovered artistic methods to save cash, whether or not or not it’s buying at Costco (which is a highly regarded spot in Hawaii) or having a number of generations dwelling in a single residence.

Talking of houses, the price of a house thought of modest again on the mainland can value you twice, even 4 occasions, as a lot in Hawaii. And due to the nice climate, most houses don’t have central heating or air-con, regardless of the excessive humidity—which makes houses vulnerable to mould (although the fixed commerce winds do assist). Delivery something there may be costly (you possibly can kiss free transport provides goodbye, by the way in which), so most folk are higher off simply promoting all their stuff earlier than shifting to Hawaii, together with their automobiles. Make sure you do your analysis and map out the rise in prices in your relocation price range.

Although the Hawaiian inhabitants is a various and welcoming melting pot, some have discovered the tradition and way of life troublesome to soften into. Even in its largest cities, life in Hawaii is slower paced in comparison with the remainder of the nation. So when you’re used to the hurried lifetime of a giant metropolis, you is perhaps in for a shock. Hawaii can be a really transient society, with most individuals solely sticking round for a number of years earlier than shifting again to the mainland. And Hawaiians are very protecting of their tradition and their islands (in a great way). So when you respect the individuals and the land, you’ll get alongside simply nice.

So, now that you already know what to arrange for in your journey to the Aloha State, right here’s our checklist of the very best locations to stay in Hawaii. We’ve grouped the cities by island, going east to west, and in no explicit order. And so as to add just a little extra authenticity to our checklist, we’ve consulted with a number of former Hawaiians for the within scoop.

Finest Locations to Dwell on the Huge Island (Hawaii)

We’re beginning our tour with the state’s island namesake, also called the “Huge Island” as a result of it’s the most important island within the chain (over 4,000 sq. miles—larger than all the opposite islands mixed!). Mockingly, there are fewer individuals on this island in comparison with the others, which implies that the inhabitants is extra unfold out. It’s additionally the island with probably the most inexpensive houses.

The Huge Island’s 5 volcanoes (two of that are at the moment nonetheless energetic) have created an fascinating distinction in climates. The east facet is quite a bit like a tropical rainforest—lush, humid and inexperienced with nearly fixed cloud cowl. The west facet, nevertheless, is far more typical Hawaiian: dry and sunny with a beautiful breeze. The fertile soil created by the volcanoes additionally makes the Huge Island a middle for agriculture.

^{*Metro space inhabitants consists of the whole island of Hawaii.
**Unemployment charge is for all of Hawaii County/Island.}

Hilo

Although it’s the most important metropolis on the Huge Island, Hilo (pronounced “hee-low”) retains the “previous Hawaii” really feel because of the previous wood storefronts alongside its downtown. These storefronts now home lots of the outlets, museums, eating places and artwork galleries that make up Hilo’s bustling arts scene—together with the East Hawaii Cultural Heart, Two Girls Kitchen, and the Palace Theater. Hilo’s native occasions additionally mirror the previous Hawaii spirit with the world-famous Merrie Monarch Pageant, a week-long hula competitors. And among the many metropolis’s native employers is Mauna Loa, the most important macadamia nut grower and provider on the planet (and named for one of many Huge Island’s volcanoes).

Comply with the Wailuku River west from Hilo Bay and also you’ll come throughout Hilo’s native pure magnificence: three large waterfalls (Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots and Waiale Falls) and several other state parks that protect the world round them. Different nature-based actions embody the Liliuokalani Gardens and the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo—the one zoo of its variety within the nation! And Hilo is the closest massive metropolis to Hawaii Volcanoes Nationwide Park, residence to each Mauna Loa and Kilauea.

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete of all residence sorts.}

Kailua-Kona

On the western facet of the Huge Island is Kailua-Kona (pronounced “ky-loo-ah koh-nah”), which is named “Kona” or “Kona City” by locals. Established by King Kamehameha I within the 1700s, Kona was the unique capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. One have a look at the attractive Kona Coast with its cool temps and sunny days and also you’ll see why the king made Kona his royal hideaway. The crystal-clear water is ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, crusing, fishing and extra. And the volcanic soil of close by Holualoa produces the well-known Kona espresso.

In Kona, historical past lives facet by facet with all the fashionable conveniences. Alii Drive is residence to historic Kailua Village—Kona’s downtown district that’s filled with neat little outlets and eating places, in addition to Kamehameha’s Hulihee Palace. There’s Kona Worldwide Airport, which is considered one of two giant airports on the islands. The one Costco on the Huge Island can be in Kona. Native occasions embody the annual Ironman World Championship, which begins and finishes on Alii Drive.

With all the fashionable conveniences, together with quite a lot of single-family houses, condos and townhomes obtainable in Kona, you’ll most likely stay higher than Kamehameha did. He didn’t have Costco, in any case!

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete of all residence sorts.}

Finest Place to Dwell on Maui

Maui is the second largest island within the Hawaiian chain. Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is dominated by two volcanoes (Haleakala and Puu Kukui) on reverse ends of the island with a valley in between. Maui is probably the most naturally numerous island—rainforests, snow-capped mountains, lava flows, deserts and clearwater seashores along with your selection of sand (white, black or pink). Maui can be probably the most laid again of all of the islands, with the native slogan being “Maui no kai oi” (“Maui is the very best”).

Maui has massive vacationer facilities, however they’re much less crowded than locations like Honolulu or Hilo. The added seclusion and pure selection make Maui a magnet for wealthier residents. However the spirit of aloha may be very sturdy there, as demonstrated by the assistance and kindness proven to their neighbors in Lahaina when the town was destroyed in a horrible wildfire in 2023 (most of Lahaina remains to be closed off, by the way in which).

^{*Metro space inhabitants numbers embody the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe.
**Unemployment charge is for Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina metro space(which incorporates the islands Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe).}

Kahului

Whereas Maui is geared towards vacationers, the city of Kahului (pronounced “kah-hoo-loo-ee”) on the northern finish of the island is the place a lot of the locals stay and is much less touristy. Initially constructed for sugar and pineapple farming, Kahului is now the industrial hub of Maui with a busy harbor and airport. Cruise ships and industrial transport vessels alike often go out and in of Kahului Bay.

Kahului is widespread with locals as a result of it’s the place they go to do all their regular enterprise—physician visits, buying, and many others. Main retailers (together with Costco) are there, together with a number of good buying areas just like the Queen Ka’ahumanu Heart. The Maui Mall Village is residence to Tasaka Guri-Guri, considered one of Kahului’s oldest and most well-known eateries, specializing in a signature Japanese sherbet referred to as guri-guri. Different widespread issues to do embody a stroll by means of the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, stay performances on the Maui Arts & Cultural Heart, kiteboarding alongside Kahului Seaside, and a day journey to Haleakala Nationwide Park.

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete of all residence sorts.
**As a result of no annual rainfall knowledge for Kahului was obtainable,the typical annual rainfall complete is for the adjoining metropolis of Wailuku.}

Finest Locations to Dwell on Oahu

It’s mentioned that the island of Oahu’s identify was derived from the Hawaiian time period for “gathering place”—and it’s a fairly correct description. Despite the fact that it’s the third largest island within the Hawaiian chain, Oahu holds nearly 70% of the whole inhabitants of the state! However Oahu nonetheless retains the signature Hawaiian combo of nice climate, limitless seashores and pleasant individuals . . . there are only a few extra of that final one.

Due to the quantity of individuals dwelling on the island, all sides of Oahu is completely different in tradition, vibe and way of life—the whole lot from city condo-dweller to peaceable suburbanite and beachfront surfer dude. The Oahu inhabitants can be probably the most transient within the state. That is partially as a result of massive army presence, as Oahu is residence to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and all U.S. army branches have bases on the island.

^{*Metro space inhabitants numbers embody the whole island of Oahu.
**Unemployment charge is for all of Oahu.}

Honolulu

When Oahu locals say they’re going to “city,” they imply Honolulu—the capital of Hawaii. Should you’re in search of a extra fast-paced way of life in comparison with the opposite islands, that is your home. Honolulu (Hawaiian for “sheltered harbor”) is an oceanside city metropolis with industrial skyscrapers and high-rise residential buildings piercing the right blue Hawaii sky, together with fashionable districts for nightlife leisure, buying and fantastic eating.

Honolulu can be an ethnically numerous metropolis, with a lot of influences from Asian cultures (the town even has its personal Chinatown). Honolulu’s metropolis occasions have a good time this distinctive mix of cultures with a twist. One of many extra widespread occasions is the Spam Jam—a meals competition devoted to all of the artistic methods to arrange the favored canned meat (Spam has been a Hawaiian favourite since World Warfare II).

Honolulu can be very touristy—arguably probably the most touristy spot within the state. Whereas most are on the enjoyable facet like Waikiki Seaside and the Worldwide Market, others have a extra severe goal. Honolulu is adjoining to the army bases at Pearl Harbor and its memorials and museums devoted to the hundreds of courageous souls who died in the course of the assault on the harbor in 1941.

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a two-bedroom residence.}

Kailua

Alongside the southern portion of Oahu’s Windward Coast is Kailua (pronounced “ky-loo-ah”), named for the assembly of two ocean currents at Kailua Bay. And the ocean performs a giant half in making Kailua one of the crucial fascinating (and costly) locations to stay in Hawaii. Each Kailua and Lanikai Seashores make excellent backdrops for beautiful sunrises and the breezes present gasoline for wind-powered enjoyable on the water like wind and kitesurfing (and that’s good as a result of common browsing waves are nearly nonexistent). Locals additionally take pleasure in paddleboarding or kayaking out to the Mokulua Islands (or “Mokes”) lower than a mile offshore.

Again on land, Kailua is properly often known as one of the crucial walkable (and bikeable) seaside cities in Hawaii. The streets are lined with espresso outlets, pubs, boutiques—locations the place individuals collect with neighbors. The walkability turns into hikability with the mountain climbing path alongside the Kaiwa Ridge and exquisite views from the Lanikai Pillboxes, the stays of two World Warfare II period bunkers.

Kailua is usually made up of single-family houses and is taken into account a bed room neighborhood, the type of metropolis the place you need to stay and commute to work someplace else. And although the neighbors are pleasant, they’ve a popularity for calling the native police for any perceived disturbance—which is why the city is typically referred to as “Cry-lua.”

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete of all residence sorts.}

Wahiawa

The city of Wahiawa (pronounced “wah-hee-wah”) is a superb instance of life in central Oahu. Inland and away from the hustle and bustle of the seaside communities, Wahiawa feels extra like a typical American suburb—a kind of time capsule of the quiet mid-century Oahu life earlier than the island’s large improvement. We’re speaking older houses with larger yards, which is not typical in most elements of the state. Including to the classic environment is the climate, as Wahiawa is the coldest place on the island (temps would possibly get as little as 59 levels . . . brrrr!). However if you wish to heat up on the seaside, Oahu’s North Shore is lower than 10 miles away.

Like most elements of Hawaii, meals is a crucial a part of the Wahiawa tradition. Many bakeries, espresso outlets and eating places in Wahiawa are regionally owned and have been round for many years, changing into native staples within the course of. Kilani Bakery, for instance, is thought for his or her scrumptious brownies. The Dole Plantation, initially opened in 1950 as a fruit stand, is now considered one of Wahiawa’s most well-known sights—providing a neat tour of their pineapple manufacturing, in addition to the world-famous Dole Whip frozen deal with.

Wahiawa can be a army city. The Military’s Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Military Airfield are actually proper subsequent to Wahiawa, together with Naval Pc and Telecommunications Space Grasp Station Pacific. Schofield is definitely bigger than Wahiawa itself! So there are many army households settling in Wahiawa as properly.

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete of all residence sorts.}

Finest Place to Dwell on Kauai

Whereas the island of Kauai is residence to round 70,000 individuals, it’s most likely the least developed island within the state in a number of senses of the phrase. The cities are much less commercialized, with few mainstream big-chain shops and eating places (don’t fear . . . there’s a Costco). Agriculture is massive on Kauai—the island was constructed on sugarcane and pineapple plantations however is now principally cattle farms. The island has an absence of expert professionals, so when you’re a plumber, a contractor, or a physician, you’ll haven’t any drawback getting enterprise.

Kauai is named the “Backyard Isle” as a result of all of the pure surroundings is pristine Hawaiian wilderness. Residents prefer to say Kauai has all the very best elements of the opposite islands’ pure magnificence. The seashores are good, not overcrowded, and comprise the most important coral reef in Hawaii. And the inland mountains, canyons, rainforests and waterfalls are a number of the most breathtaking sights on Earth. In actual fact, they’ve been featured in a number of Hollywood blockbusters—the very best recognized are most likely the Jurassic Park films, Raiders of the Misplaced Ark, and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

^{*Metro space inhabitants numbers embody the islands of Kauai and Niihau.
**Unemployment charge is for all of Kauai.}

Kapaa

Kapaa (pronounced “kah-pah-ah”) is a city that completely represents the straightforward, laid-back Kauai way of life. It’s the most important metropolis on the island and a tourism-dependent seaside city. Positioned on the east facet of the island, Kapaa (Hawaiian for “stable”) takes up eight miles of Kauai’s stunning Royal Coconut Coast (named for all of the coconut timber rising there). It additionally has a stretch of the seven-mile-long Kauai Multiuse Path—a scenic roadway for strolling, jogging and biking. Climbing can be massive in Kapaa, with a number of trails that deliver hikers to pure wonders like Hoopii Falls and Nounou Mountain.

Between Kapaa and its neighbor to the south, Wailua, there’s a lot of beach-themed actions to do and see (although you’ll must journey half-hour south in your Costco run). Dwell music will be discovered on the primary Saturday of each month in Outdated Kapaa City—the city’s historic district—which additionally has rows of regionally owned outlets and eating places. Kapaa can be close to two buying areas: the Kinipopo Procuring Village (a boutique-style market) and the Coconut Market, a really charming and beachy outside mall.

^{*Median month-to-month lease quantity is predicated on a complete variety of all residence sorts.
**As a result of no annual rainfall knowledge for Kapaa was obtainable,the typical annual rainfall complete is for the adjoining metropolis of Wailua.}

Finest Locations to Dwell in Hawaii for Households

You probably have children, you’re in search of a pleasant, secure place to lift them that has nice colleges and many actions (gotta get that child vitality out). Hawaii has all that and extra—particularly on Oahu, the place the colleges usually obtain high rankings. Listed below are a number of examples of some nice Hawaiian cities for households.

Hilo
Kailua
Mililani
Pearl Metropolis
Waikele

Finest Locations to Dwell in Hawaii for Younger Singles

Being considered one of America’s and the world’s premier vacationer locations, there’s no scarcity of enjoyable issues to do to fill a younger single’s time. Check out these locations to search out some nice tradition and nightlife.

Hilo
Honolulu
Kailua
Kailua-Kona
Waimea

Finest Locations to Dwell in Hawaii for Retirees

Retiring in Hawaii seems like a dream. Outside actions and nice neighborhood will hold you shifting and social. And the much less irritating, slower tempo of life would possibly simply be what the physician ordered. Simply just be sure you can afford a spot like Hawaii on a set earnings and in addition analysis which communities are nearer to medical care do you have to ever want it. Listed below are a number of cities that match the invoice.

Honolulu
Kapaa
Maunawili
Wahiawa
Waikele
Waimea

Able to Transfer to Hawaii?

Practiced your shaka, obtained your excellent pair of flip-flops, and searching ahead to these beautiful sunsets? An actual property agent could make the transition to the Aloha State a clean one—guiding you thru the method from begin to end with that very same spirit of aloha the islands are well-known for. And we’re not speaking about simply any actual property agent. For a quick and straightforward option to discover native Hawaiian brokers, look no additional than our community of RamseyTrusted brokers.

We solely advocate brokers who know the world and are fully devoted to serving to you discover the right piece of paradise. And we belief them to maintain you the Ramsey manner—with honesty and integrity. In different phrases, like ohana.

Mahalo!