Last Updated: 9/13/2021 Between the beautiful beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle, it isn’t hard to imagine why so many people are drawn to the idea of moving to Hawaii. Whether it’s trading a hectic life in the city for colorful jungles and breathtaking waterfalls or leaving a stressful work environment for a more peaceful state of mind, Hawaii has a lot to offer its residents. However, this tranquility does come at a price. The cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the nation. In fact, by some calculations, Hawaii is the most expensive state in the U.S. If you’re considering...

Last Updated: 8/9/2024 Considering a move to Hilo? You’ll find this town on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, nestled in the South Hilo district.   Many people will tell you that Hilo is the rainiest city in the U.S.—but that doesn’t tell the whole story.   In fact, Hilo sits in the “tropical rainforest” designation of the Köppen-Geiger Climate Classification System. In other words, there’s no dry season in Hilo. As a result, the landscape in the North and South Hilo districts is one of the most verdant on the island. Think waterfalls and plentiful plant life in vibrant shades of greens, pinks, reds, yellows, purples—almost every shade imaginable.   Additionally, Hilo holds the...

There’s a reason they call it the Big Island. As largest island, Hawaii clocks in at a whopping 4,028 square miles. (It’s almost as big as Connecticut, which measures 4,842 mi2!) In fact, the Big Island has more land area than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined.i   Considering the Big Island’s substantial size, visitors sometimes decide to focus their time in one area, such as the Kona side. Of course, if you’re lucky enough to move to the Big Island, you’ll have as much time as you like to explore!  If you’re spending your time on the Kona (or western) side of the island, you’ll find it hotter, drier, and sunnier than the Hilo (eastern) side. As a result, there are a several activities...

Last updated: June 22, 2026 If you’re considering moving to Kona, Hawaii, you’re probably wondering what life is really like on the Big Island. Known for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and laid-back island lifestyle, Kona is one of the most popular places to live in Hawaii. But before relocating to Kona, it’s important to understand everything from the cost of living and housing market to local culture, transportation, and everyday life. One of the biggest draws of living in Kona is the incredible natural beauty that surrounds you. Residents enjoy easy access to white sand beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, hiking trails,...

Have you ever found yourself sitting at the airport at the end of your vacation with a pit in your stomach? Maybe you even searched your brain for rational reasons to skip your flight home? Or tried desperately to figure out a way to stay?  If so, you’ve experienced the same feelings many people have after a trip to Hawaii.   However, while some only dream of making the move to paradise, others make it happen. In 2019, 49,708 U.S. residents relocated to the Aloha State. If you want to join them, we’ve put together this Insider’s Guide to moving to Hawaii. Whether you want to establish your home on Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai, we’ll offer you the tips and...

The decision to move to Hawaii from California etc. is more complicated than the decision to move to a new destination within the continental 48 states. While relocation to Hawaii does not have to be permanent, it is more expensive, time-consuming, and stressful than a land-based move, so it is much more difficult to return to the states if you become homesick or are simply unhappy in your new environment.