Cost of Living in Hawaii 2022
*Updated May 2025
What is the first thing you want to know about the cost of living in Hawaii? Whether you are moving to Hawaii from the USA, you’d want to make sure that the annual wage is enough to pay rent and enjoy life.
If we believe Payscale, the median salary in Honolulu now ranges from $62,000 to $68,000 in 2025. However, among US states, it still has one of the highest tax rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary per the third quarter of 2024 was $1,087 weekly, making about $56,524 annually. In updated data from Indeed.com, the median wage of an Administrative Specialist is about $4,620 per month, and for an Accountant, $4,920. The highest salaries are still on the island of Oahu.
Renting in Hawaii
Renting in Hawaii is much more expensive than in most states throughout the USA. A studio flat now ranges from $1,200 to $1,700 per month without utilities, depending on the location. A one-bedroom apartment costs between $1,800 to $2,400, and a three-bedroom apartment starts around $2,900 monthly.
The cost of living in Hawaii is cheaper if you choose to live on other islands. For example, the lowest housing prices are still on the Big Island. This is also true for other expenses. Similarly, Kauai remains more affordable than Oahu and is considered one of the best places to live with families – it continues to have the highest percentage of under-18 population.
Expect to pay at least $950,000 to buy a single-family home and around $525,000 for a condo. Although prices are high, real estate in Oahu remains in high demand.
Energy Bills In Hawaii
According to updated Finder.com data, Hawaii remains one of the top five states with the highest energy bills. The average annual energy cost is around $4,020.
The monthly cost of electricity is $174, and natural gas averages $160. Hawaii continues to lead in the use of solar panels, with increasing adoption as the state moves toward its 2045 goal of 100% renewable energy.
Transportation in Hawaii
Living outside Honolulu is cheaper, but if you work in downtown Honolulu, driving and parking will impact your total cost of living. The average gas price as of May 2025 is $4.95 for regular and $5.20 for mid-grade. Source: https://www.lendingtree.com/credit-cards/study/us-gas-prices/
Commuting is still more cost-effective. A non-transfer bus ride is now $3.00 for adults. If you ride several buses per day, the HOLO transfer pass remains $5.50/day or $75/month. Source: https://www.thebus.org/Fare/TheBusFares.asp
Renting a parking spot in Waikiki or downtown Honolulu ranges from $110 to $210 per month. Condo residents may also need to pay similar rates for a parking stall.
Buying Groceries and Dining Out
Grocery and restaurant prices remain higher than the national average due to Hawaii’s reliance on imports from the mainland.
A gallon of milk is around $7–$9.50. Fresh vegetables average $4.50/lb. A loaf of bread is about $5.10, a dozen eggs $4.60, and 1 kg of local cheese $17. Water is approximately $2.50 per bottle. A bottle of wine costs around $15. Cigarettes are $10.50–$11.00 per pack.
Here are typical dining prices in 2025:
- Meal in a cheap restaurant – $18
- Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant – $88
- McDonald’s McMeal – $10.50
- Regular cappuccino – $5.40
- Espresso – $3.30
- Cheeseburger – $3.20
- Local beer (0.5 liters) – $7.00
Cost of Living in Hawaii: Taxes and Health
Hawaii still has the lowest property tax rate in the U.S. at 0.28%. Source: https://taxfoundation.org/data/all/state/property-taxes-by-state-county/
Retiree benefits and public pensions remain tax-exempt, though private retirement savings are not.
According to the Commonwealth Fund, Hawaii continues to offer the lowest average health insurance costs. Source: https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2025/how-affordable-job-based-health-coverage-workers
The two main providers are Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. and the Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA). Hawaiians pay only about 8.2% of their average salary for health coverage compared to 12% on the mainland.
As of 2024, Hawaii ranks among the top 5 healthiest states to live in.
Are There Ways to Stay on Budget?
To reduce costs, consider living in smaller towns outside Honolulu. For instance, Hilo’s cost of living is still 33% below the national average. Kaunakakai remains one of the cheapest places in Hawaii, with living costs 11% lower than the U.S. average. Kailua, Waimea, and Waianae are also affordable.
Driving an electric vehicle and participating in Hawaii’s solar incentive programs can significantly lower your utility and fuel expenses. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably in Hawaii depends on your location, lifestyle, and other personal expenses.
Are You Moving to Hawaii?
Although Hawaii’s cost of living is among the highest in the U.S., it’s balanced by unmatched natural beauty, beaches, outdoor activities, and cultural diversity. If you are planning to relocate to Hawaii, contact SDC International Shipping.
We specialize in moving household goods, including door-to-door service across islands. Let us handle your relocation with care and precision.
