Things You Need to Know About Living in Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is a sought-after destination for both vacationers and permanent residents. Currently ranked as the #32 in the Best Places to Live in 2024-2025 by the U.S. News and World Report, it’s easy to see why many move to the island every year. Living in Honolulu embodies a lifestyle that blends natural beauty with the spirit of Aloha, but it’s essential to consider both the appeal and the potential challenges of moving to Honolulu.
1. The Cost of Living in Honolulu
While Honolulu is known for its laid-back living, beautiful palm trees, and stunning beaches, the cost of living in Honolulu, Hawai’i, is higher (85% more) than other large cities in the U.S. If you’re planning a move to Honolulu, it’s important to consider costs like rent, average home price, groceries, transportation, etc to ensure that you live a comfortable lifestyle. The median price for a home exceeds $800K, and the average median monthly rent is about $2,062. The median income needed to live in Honolulu as an individual is around $97,500, and for a family of four, the median household income is around $120,000.
2. Honolulu Job Market
Securing a job before your arrival will allow for a seamless transition and set you up for success in your move to Honolulu. It will also be important to show proof of your income when applying for a long-term rental on the island. Tourism, healthcare, and construction are some of the main industries in Hawaii, so if you have experience in any of these areas, this may aid your search for a job.
3. Housing
Finding a long-term rental in Honolulu can be tricky, but you can do a few things to help ease your search:
- If possible, try to see rentals in person to get a feel for the property.
- Use rental listing sites or property management companies to scope out available rentals, but be aware of scams. Networking can also be a helpful tool in your search.
- Learn more about the neighborhoods that make up Honolulu County. Depending on your work and hobbies, location is a key factor in your decision-making.
If you’re looking for a trusted, local property management company, Novation Realty offers long-term rentals in and around Honolulu County. We’re here to provide you with the space you need to make this paradise your home.
4. Melting Cultural Pot
The island of Oahu is a cultural melting pot, blending different cultures, languages, traditions, and cuisines. From fusion restaurants to festivals celebrating different cultures, Honolulu offers the perfect opportunity to meet people of all backgrounds. Immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture is very important if you plan to move here. Learning about the history of how Hawai’i was shaped and the Hawaiians’ own cultures and traditions will ensure that you respect the land and its native people.
5. Outdoor Activities
One of the best things about moving to Honolulu is access to outdoor adventures. From surfing to hiking and beaches to mountains, the island of Oahu has it all. After a work day, jump into the ocean for a relaxing swim or head to Puʻu O Hulu (Pink Pillbox) for a sunset hike. Access to outdoor activities is an excellent way to release stress, and its no wonder why Kiplinger rated Honolulu as the #6 happiest place to live.
Ready to Move to Honolulu?
Novation Realty offers long-term rentals in Honolulu, Hawaii. Many of our long-term rentals are only a short walk or drive to Waikiki, Ala Moana, and the University of Hawaii. Contact us to learn more about our offerings.