Cheapest Places to Live in Hawaii
Hawaii, known as the Aloha State, is famous for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and high cost of living. While it is one of the most expensive states in the U.S., there are still affordable places to live, especially on the Big Island and some parts of Oahu.
Cost of Living in Hawaii
Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the U.S., largely due to imported goods, high housing costs, and utility expenses.
| Cost of Living | Hawaii | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 170.0 | 100 |
| Grocery | 157.7 | 100 |
| Housing | 310.6 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $732,000 | $291,700 |
| Utilities | 189.0 | 100 |
| Transportation | 123.4 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 134.0 | 100 |
Most Affordable Places to Live in Hawaii
- Hilo (Big Island) – One of the most affordable cities, with median home prices around $430,000.
- Kurtistown (Big Island) – A rural and peaceful location with lower housing costs.
- Waianae (Oahu) – A more affordable option on Oahu, but with higher crime rates.
- Kaunakakai (Molokai) – Offers small-town charm and lower costs.
- Hawaiian Paradise Park (Big Island) – A growing residential area with reasonable real estate prices.
Insurance in Hawaii
Hawaii provides various insurance options, including health, auto, homeowners, and life insurance. The cost of insurance in Hawaii varies based on location, lifestyle, and provider.
Health Insurance in Hawaii
Hawaii has one of the best healthcare systems in the U.S. due to the Hawaii Prepaid Health Care Act, which requires employers to provide health insurance to full-time employees.
Residents can get health insurance through:
- Employer-sponsored plans
- Hawaiʻi Health Connector (ACA Marketplace)
- Med-QUEST (Hawaii’s Medicaid program)
Hawaii has low uninsured rates, and Med-QUEST offers free or low-cost coverage for low-income residents.
For details, visit Hawaii Health Connector.
Auto Insurance in Hawaii
Hawaii law requires minimum auto insurance coverage:
- $20,000 per person for bodily injury liability
- $40,000 per accident for bodily injury liability
- $10,000 for property damage liability
Hawaii is a no-fault state, meaning drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP).
Major providers include State Farm, Geico, and Allstate.
For more details, visit Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Homeowners and Renters Insurance in Hawaii
Hawaii experiences hurricanes, flooding, and volcanic activity, making homeowners insurance essential. Standard policies do not cover flood and hurricane damage, so additional policies may be needed.
Top insurance providers include:
- Liberty Mutual
- Hawaiian Insurance & Guaranty
- USAA (for military families)
If you live in a tsunami or flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
For more information, visit FEMA’s NFIP.
Life Insurance in Hawaii
Residents can choose between:
- Term Life Insurance – Covers a set period (e.g., 10–30 years).
- Permanent Life Insurance – Offers lifetime coverage with cash value.
Top life insurance providers in Hawaii include Prudential, New York Life, and MassMutual.
Senior Healthcare Facilities in Hawaii
Hawaii has one of the longest life expectancies in the U.S., leading to a high demand for senior care facilities.
Types of Senior Care Facilities in Hawaii
- Assisted Living Facilities – For seniors needing help with daily activities. Top facilities include The Plaza at Waikiki and Kalākaua Gardens.
- Nursing Homes – Provide 24/7 medical care for elderly residents with serious health conditions. Highly rated options include Hale Nani Rehabilitation & Nursing Center and Maunalani Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.
- Memory Care Facilities – Specialized for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Top-rated facilities include The Plaza at Punchbowl and Wilson Senior Living Kailua.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) – Provide independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing in one location. Examples include Arcadia Retirement Residence and Kahala Nui.
Choosing the Right Senior Care Facility
When selecting a senior facility, consider:
- Medical services offered
- Cost and available financial assistance
- Location and accessibility
For senior care services, visit Hawaii Department of Health – Executive Office on Aging.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a beautiful but expensive place to live, making affordable housing, healthcare, and insurance essential for residents. The state offers excellent senior care, strong health insurance programs, and various insurance options, but choosing the right city and insurance plan is key.