Honolulu, Hawaii

Unless you’re coming from a big, expensive city like New York or San Francisco, the cost of living may astound you. Housing, food, and even the cost of shipping – it’s often called the “paradise tax.” It’s incredibly high -- 82% above the national average.

Here's a local's post about the cost of living here:
Hawaii's cost of living index is 193.3, the highest in the nation, meaning the cost of living in the state is nearly twice the average. The state is also the most expensive in the U.S. across all metrics except healthcare. Hawaii's housing costs are three times the national average, with a typical single-family home averaging $730,511(now it's $1.1M). Renters pay an average of $1,651 (2,000 or more) for a two-bedroom apartment in the state. Groceries also cost 50% more than the national average, as most goods have to be shipped to the island.

Like any big, capital city Honolulu isn’t any one thing in terms of lifestyle but for anyone considering the city from the mainland it feels crazy not to start with the outdoor activities. Honolulu is filled with stunning beaches, surfing, kayaking, hiking, running, golf, tennis and presumably pickleball. The city is also rich in cultural attractions, with art museums, music, dance and theater all amazing for a relatively small city.

While much of the culture is built around native traditions, it is important to remember that Honolulu is over 50% Asian American and Pacific Islander with the largest ethnic groups including Japanese, Filipinos, Chinese, Koreans, Native Hawaiian and Vietnamese so the experiences are often a melting pot of Hawaiian and eastern cultures that make the city feel more international than most other U.S. cities. The food scene is incredible with all ethnicities represented in world-class dining, and while there are plenty of retirees in the area the large population of students from the University of Hawaii and young professionals give the city a younger city vibe with tons of bars and clubs available for those looking to stay out late.

Honolulu has four major economic sectors: tourism, trade/transportation, military defense and agriculture/aquaculture. Since the city and islands are at the crossroads of the west and east it serves both tourists and business for both Asia and the United States. While the economy in the city and area is strong and in some sectors recession-proof, the cost of living is crushing for many who otherwise would consider moving here. Some of the wfh migration patterns that are driving growth in less expensive U.S. cities are hard to imagine for Honolulu.

Honolulu - particularly East Honolulu - has the highest livability rating in the state, and is number 29 in the nation. This is due to low crime rates, high graduation rates, lots of local amenities, and a stable housing market. It is also No. 13 on a list of the 30 happiest cities in the United States, according to Gallup’s Healthways Well-Being Index.

Honolulu is a rare place that appeals to students, millennial families and retirees. And anyone who loves a good Poke Bowl.