Relocating to Honolulu: A Family’s Journey

After a nine-day vacation in Honolulu, Hawaii, my family and I are considering relocating there for good. The idea of moving back to Hawaii, where my parents live, has been on our minds since 2014 when I retired from my finance job. However, the actual move has been more challenging than we anticipated.

Life always seemed to get in the way – from having children in 2017 and 2019 to the impacts of the pandemic. But now, with my parents in their mid-70s and our kids adapting well to a new environment, the time to make the move is now.

The Challenges of Living in Honolulu, Hawaii

Living in Honolulu comes with its share of challenges, particularly in housing, food, and work. Affording a home in Honolulu can be steep, with median home prices hovering around $1,050,000. The high cost of living in Honolulu can be a shock for those coming from other parts of the country.

Owning Real Estate in San Francisco Makes Moving To Honolulu Easier

While San Francisco has higher median home prices than Honolulu, the idea of moving to Honolulu and saving a substantial amount on a median-priced home is enticing. However, the costs of luxury homes with ocean views can soar beyond $4 million, posing a challenge.

Honolulu’s High Food Costs

Food costs in Honolulu can also be a concern, with produce prices being among the highest in the nation. Dining out can be costly, with a plate lunch for a family of four easily reaching $80 – $100.

We Grow Our Own Fruit in Honolulu

One of the perks of living in Honolulu is access to fresh fruit from trees planted years ago by family members. Having plenty of homegrown fruit can help offset some of the high food costs in the area.

Honolulu’s Relatively Low Pay

Compared to mainland cities, pay in Honolulu can be 40%-60% lower, with fewer high-paying job opportunities. The median household income in Honolulu was $96,580 as per the 2020 Census, which can pose challenges in affording the high cost of living.

We Have Enough Passive Income For Living In Hawaii

Despite the lower pay in Honolulu, we have enough passive income to support a comfortable lifestyle for our family. The plan to either work part-time, teach, or continue writing from home allows for financial sustainability in Honolulu.

Considering Independent Grade Schools in Honolulu

With excellent independent grade schools in Honolulu, we are exploring educational opportunities for our kids. Access to Mandarin immersion programs and lower tuition costs make independent education an attractive option for our family.

The Fear Of Being A Stranger In A New City Is Overblown

Moving to a new city can be daunting, but the warm and welcoming residents of Honolulu can make the transition easier. Engaging in community events, hobbies, and respecting local traditions can help integrate into the new environment.

Winding Down In Honolulu In The Second Half Of Life

With a focus on a healthier, more relaxed lifestyle in Honolulu, we are considering making the move in the coming years. The plan to enjoy the benefits of island living while remaining productive and safe with our family is at the forefront of our relocation journey.

Don’t Quit Your Job To Relocate To Honolulu

Negotiating a severance package before relocating can provide financial security in the face of lower pay in Honolulu. Exploring options to maintain passive income streams and work opportunities can help navigate the challenges of moving to a new city.

If you are considering a move to Honolulu or have experience living and working in the area, we would love to hear your insights. Feel free to share any positives or negatives we should consider before relocating!