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Moving to Hawaii: 8 Tips For a Successful Move
By Victor Rosario MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Moving to Hawaii can be a dream come true for many people. With its stunning beaches, warm weather and laid-back lifestyle, the Aloha State has a lot to offer. However, the move to Hawaii can also be quite challenging. It involves more than just packing up your things and hopping on a plane. In this article, we will provide you with eight essential tips to help you make a successful move to Hawaii.
Table of Contents
How to move to Hawaii
Moving to Hawaii requires careful planning and preparation. Before making your big move or buying your first home, make sure to have your moving checklist prepared while keeping the following steps in mind.
1. Discover which island is the best option for you
The first step in moving to Hawaii is to decide which island is the best option for you. Hawaii is composed of eight main islands in the Pacific Ocean, each with its own unique character and lifestyle. The most popular islands are Kauai, Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, Lanai, Molokai and Niihau.
Kauai
Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is a lush, green paradise with beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. It’s a great option for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and snorkeling.
Oahu
The island of Oahu is home to the state capital of Honolulu and Ewa and Waikiki Beach. It’s the most populated island and offers a mix of urban and rural living.
Maui
Maui is known for its stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a great option for those who enjoy water activities like surfing and snorkeling.
The Big Island
The island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian islands. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, from active volcanoes like Kilauea to snow-capped mountains.
Lanai and Molokai
These two islands are more remote and offer a quieter, more rural lifestyle.
Niihau
Niihau is a privately owned island and is not open to tourists.
2. Learn about their culture and language
Hawaiian culture is rich and unique, deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the native Hawaiian people and Hawaii residents. Learning about the culture and language is essential for anyone moving to Hawaii.
One way to learn about the culture is to attend a hula or other cultural event. You can also visit historical sites, such as the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, to learn about the history of Hawaii. It’s also important to learn a few basic Hawaiian words and phrases, such as “aloha” (hello/goodbye), “ohana” (family) and “mahalo” (thank you).
3. Make your budget to live in Hawaii
Before making the move to Hawaii, it’s crucial to plan your budget. The high cost of living in Hawaii can be a detriment when trying to make your island life dream a reality, as it is one of the highest in the United States. The state’s isolation from the mainland United States results in higher transportation, food and housing costs than some parts of California or even New York. Therefore, you’ll need to budget accordingly to ensure that you can afford to live in Hawaii.
It’s essential to consider your expenses and compare them to your income to determine if moving to Hawaii is feasible. One way to determine this is to use a cost-of-living calculator, which can provide you with an estimated cost of living in Hawaii compared to your current location. You should also factor in the cost of relocating, including moving costs, travel expenses and any new furniture or household items you may need.
The average cost of living in Hawaii varies depending on your location and lifestyle. On average, a family of four can expect to spend between $7,400 and $7,900 per month on housing, utilities, transportation, groceries and other necessities. Housing costs are the most significant expense, with the median single-family home price in Hawaii being $678,000. This number can vary depending on the realtor and the location.
When budgeting, consider that mortgage payments will be higher than the national average, and property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your property. Utility bills, including electricity and water, are also higher in Hawaii than in most states. Groceries and dining out are also more expensive, as most products have to be shipped from the mainland United States or imported from other countries.
Cost of living in Hawaii
| Budget for a family of 4 | Approximate Prices |
| Mortgage | $3,200 per month |
| Electricity | $350 per month |
| Groceries | $1,000$-$1,200 per month |
| Dining out | $500-$800 per month |
| Taxes | $2,350 per year |
| TOTAL | $7,400$ – $7,900 |
4. Organize transportation logistics
Organizing your transportation logistics is another important step in moving to Hawaii. Unlike other states, Hawaii is not accessible by road from the mainland United States. You can only get to Hawaii by air or sea. Therefore, it’s crucial to plan how you’ll get to Hawaii and how you’ll move around the islands once you arrive.
When it comes to air travel, Honolulu International Airport is the primary airport in Hawaii and the hub for all inter-island travel. If you’re moving with your car, you’ll need to use a car shipping service to transport your vehicle to Hawaii. Keep in mind that the cost of shipping your car can be quite expensive.
Once you arrive in Hawaii, you’ll need to plan how you’ll move around the islands. Public transportation is limited, so most residents rely on their cars to get around. If you’re not planning to bring your car to Hawaii, you’ll need to purchase or lease one upon arrival. Be prepared for the high cost of car ownership in Hawaii, including insurance, gas and maintenance.
5. Make a list of everything you need to bring with you
When preparing for your move to Hawaii, it’s essential to make a list of everything you’ll need to bring with you. Start the packing process early, and consider hiring a professional moving company to help with the move. A moving company can provide packing materials, transport your items, and ensure that everything arrives safely.
Before you start packing, make sure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license and other identification. You’ll also need to obtain a Hawaii driver’s license and register your car with the state once you arrive.
When packing, keep in mind that the climate in Hawaii is warm and humid year-round. Pack lightweight clothing and shoes suitable for tropical weather. You’ll also want to bring items like sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re moving with children, make sure to pack their favorite toys and books to keep them entertained during the move.
6. Explore their job market
Before making a move to Hawaii, it’s important to explore the job market to determine whether there are employment opportunities available in your field. While Hawaii’s unemployment rate is relatively low, finding a job can be challenging as the state’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism and the military.
However, there are several growing industries in Hawaii, including healthcare, technology and renewable energy. Healthcare jobs are particularly in demand, as Hawaii has an aging population and a shortage of healthcare workers. The technology industry is also growing, with many startups and established companies setting up shop in Hawaii. Additionally, Hawaii’s focus on renewable energy means that there are opportunities in fields such as solar power and wind energy.
It’s important to note that salaries in Hawaii as a norm can be lower than on the mainland, and the cost of living is higher. This means that you may need to adjust your salary expectations and budget accordingly when moving to places like Kailua-Kona. It’s also worth considering the benefits of a flexible or remote work arrangement, as this may allow you to work for a company based outside of Hawaii while still enjoying the island lifestyle.
If you’re struggling to find a job in your field, it may be worth considering part-time or temporary work to help you get your foot in the door. Volunteering is also a great way to build connections and gain experience in your field while giving back to the community.
Ultimately, it’s important to do your research and have a realistic understanding of the job market in Hawaii before making the move. You may need to be open to new opportunities and willing to take a different career path in order to make the most of your time in the Aloha State.
7. Educational system in Hawaii
If you have children, education is an essential factor to consider when moving to Hawaii. The state offers a public education system and private schools. The public education system in Hawaii is governed by the Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE), and it is the only statewide public education system in the United States. The Hawaii public school system has around 180,000 students and 22,000 teachers in 256 schools.
If you prefer private schools, there are many options available in Hawaii, including religious schools, international schools and independent schools. Private schools have smaller class sizes, individualized attention and more specialized programs. However, they can be more expensive than public schools, and the quality of education can vary.
It’s crucial to research the education options available in the area where you plan to live in Hawaii. Consider the quality of education, extracurricular activities, school size and location. You can start by visiting the Hawaii DOE website or the National Center for Education Statistics website. You can also speak to local real estate agents and residents to get more information about the schools in the area.
8. Learn about healthcare programs for new residents
Another critical factor to consider when moving to Hawaii is healthcare. The state has a unique healthcare system that offers a wide range of services but can also be expensive. Hawaii has a public healthcare system called Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA), which offers health insurance plans to individuals and families. It also has a public health system called Hawaii Health Systems Corporation (HHSC), which provides healthcare services to underserved populations.
If you are a new resident of Hawaii, you can apply for healthcare programs, such as Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs provide affordable health insurance to low-income individuals and families.
It’s essential to research the healthcare options available in the area where you plan to live in Hawaii. Consider the quality of care, the availability of doctors and hospitals, and the cost of insurance. You can start by visiting the HMSA or HHSC websites or speaking to a local healthcare provider.
How to move to Hawaii FAQs
Moving to a new state or country can be a daunting experience, and many people have questions before making such a big move. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about moving to Hawaii.
How we chose the best ways to move to Hawaii
Moving to Hawaii is a big step, and there are many factors to consider when deciding on the best way to move. Factors such as cost, convenience, and personal preferences play a significant role in determining the best way to move. Here are some of the factors we considered when choosing the best ways to move to Hawaii:
Shipping: One of the most common ways to move to Hawaii is by shipping your belongings. There are many shipping companies available that offer a range of services, including full-service packing and unpacking. The cost of shipping wll be a big factor in your moving cost and can vary depending on the size and weight of your items, as well as the distance they need to be shipped and the movers you hire.
Air Travel: If you prefer to fly to Hawaii, you can book a one-way ticket and pack all your belongings in luggage. This can be a more expensive option than other ways to move across the country, but it can also be more convenient if you don’t have a lot of items to move.
Moving Companies: If you want to take the hassle out of moving, you can hire a moving company. These companies can handle all aspects of your move, from packing and unpacking to shipping your belongings. However, this can be an expensive option, and it’s important to choose a reputable moving company to ensure the safety of your items. Visit our best long distance moving companies and best moving companies in Florida for more information.
Ultimately, the best way to move to Hawaii will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. It’s essential to do your research and consider all the options available to you before making a decision.
