Today we will learn about the most cheapest Hawaiian Island that you can visit. Hawaii is a beautiful place with stunning beaches and lots of sunshine. Many people dream of living there, but it can be expensive. The costs of flying to the islands, bringing in goods, and the overall high cost of living can make it challenging to find an affordable home in Hawaii.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Hawaiian island to live on, Maui and the Big Island are generally more affordable compared to Oahu and Kauai.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most cheapest Hawaiian island. We’ll look at factors like the cost of living, housing prices, activities, and more. We’ll also delve into Hawaii’s unique culture and share tips to make living on the islands more budget-friendly.
If you’re planning a low-cost vacation in Hawaii, you might be wondering which island offers the best value. While each island has its attractions, Oahu is known for being a budget-friendly option. It has beautiful beaches, a rich history, and plenty of things to do, all at a lower cost.
Moving to Hawaii is a big decision, so it’s essential to consider factors like safety, the cost of living, housing, utilities, transportation, average income, and job opportunities on each island. In this article, team Fixthelife we’ll help you discover the most affordable Hawaiian island for your needs.
Top 5 Cheapest Hawaiian Island List
We have prepared a list of cheapest Hawaiian island below:
Now lets talk on the cost of living in Hawaii to determine the cheapest Hawaiian island.
Key Points in The Article
- Hawaii is renowned for its stunning landscapes but can be costly, making it essential to find the most budget-friendly and cheapest Hawaiian island for living.
- When considering where to live in Hawaii, Maui and the Big Island emerge as affordable choices compared to the more expensive Oahu and Kauai.
- Key factors to contemplate when deciding on an island include safety, the cost of living, housing expenses, utilities, transportation, average income, and job opportunities.
- The top 5 budget-friendly Hawaiian islands for living include Oahu, Maui, Ewa Beach, Kauai, and the Big Island (Kona).
- The cost of living in Hawaii encompasses housing, utilities, groceries, gasoline, and healthcare.
- Tips for economical Hawaiian island living comprise purchasing used items, cultivating your own food, dining out less, considering smaller homes, and maintaining flexibility in travel dates.
- Job opportunities in Hawaii are available in tourism, agriculture, fishing, and technology sectors.
- Explore Hawaii on a budget with vacation rentals, cost-effective car rentals, free activities, public beaches, state parks, and local community events.
- Oahu is the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit, while Maui is considered the most expensive.
Hawaii’s natural beauty and unique culture can be enjoyed without straining your budget when choosing the cheapest Hawaiian island and implementing money-saving strategies.
ALSO READ: What is The Most expensive Hawaiian Island to Visit?
The Cost of Living in Hawaii
Many people dream of living in Hawaii, but it’s well-known that it can be an expensive place to reside. However, there are strategies to make it more budget-friendly, especially by choosing the cheapest Hawaiian island.
Let’s explore the various aspects of the cost of living in Hawaii.
Housing
Housing tends to be the largest expense for most people, and this remains true in Hawaii. The costs of renting or buying a home can vary significantly depending on the island you select.
While Oahu and Maui are typically on the higher end, there are more economical alternatives.
For example, Molokai Island is known for offering some of the most cheapest housing options in Hawaii. You can find a one-bedroom apartment for an average monthly rent of around $1,200, which is notably lower than other islands.
If you’re considering buying a home, properties are available for under $500,000, making it a more cost-effective choice, especially for those on a budget.
Utilities
Hawaii is famous for its high electricity costs. However, you can alleviate this expense by installing solar panels on your home. The state of Hawaii provides various incentives and tax credits for homeowners who make the switch to solar energy.
Groceries
Grocery prices in Hawaii can be higher compared to the mainland due to transportation costs. Nevertheless, you can still find reasonably priced options by shopping at local farmers’ markets and choosing locally grown produce. This not only supports local farmers but also helps you save money in the long run.
Gasoline
Gasoline prices in Hawaii are generally higher due to the fact that all gasoline is imported. However, you can reduce your fuel costs by selecting a more fuel-efficient vehicle and adopting good driving habits.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs in Hawaii tend to exceed the national average. Nonetheless, the state offers various healthcare programs and insurance options to help manage these costs.
It’s important to explore your options and find a healthcare plan that aligns with your needs and budget.
Living in Hawaii doesn’t have to be excessively expensive. By choosing the cheapest Hawaiian island and being mindful of your expenses, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of the Aloha State without straining your finances.
Top 5 Cheapest Hawaiian Island
When you’re looking for a place to live in Hawaii, one of the big things to think about is the cost. Hawaii is famous for its amazing beauty and great lifestyle, but it can be pretty expensive.
But, there are some Hawaiian islands where you can find more cheapest places to live. Let’s look at the most cheapest Hawaiian islands to live on in 2024
Oahu
Rent Price – $1,446
If you’re looking for affordable living in Hawaii, Oahu might be your best choice. This beautiful island is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant city life in Honolulu, the state capital. Oahu is also one of the most cheapest Hawaiian islands.
While living in Honolulu can be a bit expensive, there are more budget-friendly areas on the island, like Ewa Beach and Mililani. These neighborhoods offer a suburban atmosphere and housing options that won’t strain your wallet.
So, if you dream of enjoying the beaches and the Aloha spirit without breaking the bank, Oahu is a great option to consider. Plus, you can catch a flight to Oahu for as low as $836, making it one of the most affordable Hawaiian islands to visit.
Maui
Rent Price – $1,602
Maui, an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is one of the more affordable places in Hawaii to buy a home. It has about 30 miles of beautiful beaches, including the stunning Kapalua beach, which is protected by volcanic rocks.
People often call Maui the “Valley Isle.” It’s known for being a cheapest Hawaiian island, although it might not be as cheap as some places on the mainland. However, you get a great quality of life and amazing natural landscapes.
Towns like Kahului and Wailuku on Maui offer homes that won’t cost you a fortune and still keep you close to important things like stores and the beach.
If you’re open to living in more rural areas, you might find even cheaper housing options on the island.
Maui is a fantastic place to experience Hawaii’s beauty without spending too much money. And it’s a top choice for those looking for a cheapest Hawaiian island to live on.
Ewa Beach
Rent Price – $1,668
Ewa Beach, or simply Ewa, is a charming spot on the western coast of Oahu, Hawaii, right by the beautiful Mamala Bay. It’s a fantastic choice for couples looking to explore the Hawaiian islands together.
Plus, you can find the Ewa Beach Post Office here, which is run by the United States Postal Service. It’s a great place to send and receive mail while enjoying the island’s beauty.
Kauai
Rent Price – $1,698
Kauai is an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, part of the Hawaiian group of islands. If you can only pick one Hawaiian island to visit, Kauai is a great choice.
People call it the “Garden Isle” because it’s covered in lush rainforests. During the summer, it’s also one of the more affordable Hawaiian islands to visit.
Kauai is the fourth largest of these islands and the 21st largest in the United States. Known as the “Garden Isle,” it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
While it might not be the absolute cheapest Hawaiian island to live on, it does have reasonably priced places. The town of Lihue, on the island’s eastern coast, offers a good mix of affordability and access to important things like stores.
Living in Kauai, with its green landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, can be a dream come true for people looking for a slower-paced life.
Big Island
Rent Price – $2,394
The Big Island, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is the largest among the Hawaiian islands, part of the United States.
In the Volcanoes National Park, you can see two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It’s known for having the lowest housing costs, making it the most cheapest Hawaiian island to move to from the mainland USA.
Referred to as Hawaii Island, it’s both the largest and most cost-effective Hawaiian island to live on. Because of its diverse climates and landscapes, you have many options for places to live.
The cities of Hilo and Kailua-Kona, in particular, offer more affordable housing compared to other areas on the island. Whether you want a home by the beach or a peaceful rural retreat, the Big Island has something for everyone who’s looking for an affordable Hawaiian island.
How to Find Work in Hawaii
If you’re considering moving to Hawaii and want to find work, you’re in the right place. Hawaii offers job opportunities in several different fields. You can work in tourism, agriculture, fishing, or technology because Hawaii has something for everyone.
Tourism
Hawaii is famous for its beautiful landscapes, beaches, and culture, so it’s a top spot for tourists. The tourism industry here has various jobs, from working in hotels and resorts to guiding tours and providing hospitality services.
There are lots of jobs, especially when there are many tourists. You can look for job openings on websites like gohawaii.com.
Agriculture
Even though Hawaii is known for its lovely beaches, it also has a strong farming industry. The islands have good soil and the right weather for growing things like pineapples, coffee, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruits.
Whether you want to be a farmer, a gardener, or a researcher, working in agriculture can be very rewarding. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s website (hdoa.hawaii.gov) has information about jobs in agriculture.
Fishing
Hawaii is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, which makes it a great place for fishing. There are different jobs in the fishing industry, like catching fish for business, running fishing charters, or processing fish.
If you love the ocean and have the right skills, you can find work in this field. The Hawaii Seafood Council’s website (hawaii-seafood.org) has information about jobs and fishing rules in Hawaii.
Technology
In recent years, Hawaii’s technology industry has been growing quickly. There are tech hubs and research institutions, which means there are jobs for people in tech.
If you like working with computers and data, or you’re interested in cybersecurity, Hawaii’s tech industry has lots of exciting careers. Websites like techhui.com can help you find tech jobs and make professional connections in Hawaii.
These industries offer many job opportunities, but it’s a good idea to do some research and make connections to improve your chances of finding a job in Hawaii.
Working in Hawaii is special because of the “Aloha spirit” and the unique culture, making it a truly special place to live and work.
Tips for Cheapest Hawaiian Island Living
Living on a Hawaiian island can be cheap. Here are some ways to save money:
Buy Used Cars and Furniture
Instead of getting brand new things, consider used cars and furniture. You can find good deals on websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. This saves you money and helps the environment by reducing waste. Make sure to check the condition of used items before buying.
Grow Your Own Food
Hawaii’s tropical climate is perfect for gardening. You can grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs in your garden or even on your balcony. This can save you a lot of money on groceries, and it’s rewarding to eat what you grow.
Eat Out Less
While the local cuisine in Hawaii is tempting, eating out often can be expensive. Save money by eating out only on special occasions or as a treat.
Cooking at home not only saves money but also lets you explore local markets and try new recipes. Get creative in your kitchen!
Consider a Small Home
If you want to live on a Hawaiian island on a budget, think about a tiny home. These small living spaces are affordable and can be customized to your needs. They also encourage a simpler lifestyle with fewer possessions.
Exploring Hawaii on a Budget
When it comes to living in Hawaii, some might think it’s only for the wealthy. However, with some smart planning and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer without emptying your wallet. In the next section, we’ll dive into some wallet-friendly ways to make the most of your time on these beautiful Hawaiian islands.
Make Your Travel Dates Flexible
- Be flexible with your travel dates and consider booking during the off-season for lower prices.
- Start your search with Google Flights to find the most budget-friendly travel day.
- Check various websites, including the airline’s, to ensure you’re getting the best pricing available.
- Explore platforms like Kayak, Skyscanner, and cheapflights.com for potentially cheaper airfare.
- Sometimes, booking one-way flights separately can save you money, although it doesn’t always work.
- Example: In 2022, a traveler flew from ATL to LAX for about $135 and purchased a separate ticket from LAX to HNL for another $135, making the total cost of the one-way trip $270.
- Utilize travel points from credit cards to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Consider flying with different airlines for potential cost savings based on your preferences and departure location.
Vacation Rentals
For an affordable Hawaii vacation, you can check out vacation rentals on websites like Airbnb and VRBO. I personally like Airbnb because it’s often budget-friendly.
I like the idea of being able to make my own breakfast before I go out or cook dinner on days when I don’t want to eat out. Since my vacations are usually at least two weeks long, eating out for every meal can get repetitive and costly. So, having a kitchen in a rental helps me save money.
Affordable Car Rentals
The need for a rental car in Hawaii depends on where you’re going and what you plan to do. If you’re okay with just relaxing on the beach or staying in your resort during your trip, you might not need a rental car.
However, we recommend exploring Hawaii’s beautiful places.
In Oahu, if you’re staying in Waikiki, you can manage without a rental car because it’s easy to walk around, and there are public transportation options. But it’s a great idea to rent a car for at least part of your trip to see the whole island.
I really enjoyed driving to the east and west sides and the North Shore of Oahu. These places have incredible beauty you shouldn’t miss.
On the other hand, if you’re going to the Big Island, Kauai, or Maui, a rental car is more important because these islands are larger, and public transportation is limited.
You can find good deals on rental cars in Hawaii from many companies. I like Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they have fair prices and good service.
Enjoy Free Activities
Hawaii is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, and the great news is that many of its attractions won’t cost you a dime. There are incredible hiking trails, serene botanical gardens, and lively local markets to explore. Be sure to check the tourism websites for info on free events during your stay. You’ll be surprised at how much you can experience without spending a penny.
Visit Public Beaches
Hawaii is renowned for its pristine beaches, and the best part is that many of them are open to the public without any fees. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the sandy shores, snorkel in clear waters, or ride the waves, you’ll find a beach that suits your desires.
Some of the favorite public beaches include Waikiki Beach on Oahu, Poipu Beach on Kauai, and Kaanapali Beach on Maui. Just pack a picnic, grab your beach towel, and have a splendid day in paradise without breaking the bank.
Saving Money on Food in Hawaii
1. Shop at Costco:
- Costco offers affordable prices on groceries, snacks, and even pre-made meals.
- Consider getting a Costco membership for gas savings, which is often the cheapest on the island.
2. Eat Where Locals Do:
- Ask locals for dining recommendations.
- Food trucks are often budget-friendly and serve delicious dishes.
- Check out specific food truck recommendations for each island.
3. Share Meals:
- Portion sizes in Hawaii are generous.
- Sharing meals can save money and reduce food waste.
Explore State Parks
Hawaii is home to numerous state parks that offer stunning landscapes and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Whether it’s the wonder of volcanic craters or the tranquility of lush rainforests, these parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
State park admission fees are usually quite reasonable, and some even offer free entry on specific days. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the incredible beauty of these natural wonders.
Attend Local Community Events
One of the best ways to soak up the local culture and connect with the community is by taking part in local events. From lively farmers markets to captivating art fairs and enriching cultural festivals, Hawaii is always buzzing with activity.
These events often provide entertainment at a low or no cost, delicious local cuisine, and a chance to meet folks who are passionate about their heritage.
To discover the best events during your stay, check out local event calendars or ask the friendly locals for recommendations.
Living in Hawaii doesn’t have to strain your finances. By making the most of free activities, enjoying public beaches, exploring state parks, and attending local community events, you can create cherished memories in paradise while staying within your budget. So, don’t let financial worries hold you back from experiencing the magic of Hawaii.
Overall Most Cheapest Hawaiian Island
Our research states that Oahu is the most affordable Hawaiian Island to visit, with a total cost of $3,316.20 per person. This is because the hotels there are not too expensive, and the airfare and car rental prices are also a bit lower compared to other islands.
On the other hand, Maui is the most expensive island to visit, and it will cost you $5,610.34. The main reason for this is that the hotels in Maui are significantly pricier, more than twice the cost of hotels in Oahu.
Kauai is the second most expensive island to visit, and it will set you back $4,281. The Big Island is a bit cheaper at $4,203.08.
Please remember that these are average prices, and your actual costs might be different based on when you go, how long you stay, and what you prefer.
Book Hotels in Oahu
If you have to stay in a hotel, there are many good and affordable choices available. It’s a smart move to book them ahead of time for better deals.
I also recommend looking for a hotel with a full kitchen or a kitchenette. This way, you can cook some of your meals at your hotel and save money on expensive restaurant dining, which is common in Hawaii. Dining out for every meal can be costly.
When I’m searching for hotel deals, I like to use Booking.com and Expedia.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Hawaiian island is cheapest?
Oahu is the most cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, with a total cost of $3,015. It offers beautiful places like the Ko Olina Resort lagoon. In contrast, Maui is the most expensive island to explore, with a total cost of $5,142, making it over $2,000 more costly. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly Hawaiian vacation, Oahu is the way to go.
Is Maui cheaper than Oahu?
When comparing a trip to Hawaii, you can’t ignore the cost. In this case, it’s important to know that Honolulu on Oahu is a more affordable choice compared to Maui. So, if you’re looking to save money on your Hawaiian vacation, Honolulu might be the better option for you.
Are hotels cheaper in Maui or Oahu?
Let’s talk about hotel prices in December 2022. In Oahu, the average cost for one night was $202. But in Maui, it was higher, averaging $410 per night. Surprisingly, Oahu is the most budget-friendly Hawaiian island for staying in a hotel, even more so than the Big Island and Kauai.
Is Maui cheaper than Hawaii?
Let’s talk about the everyday cost for one person in Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. In Maui, it’s around $275 a day, while on the Big Island, it’s about $250. These costs include where you stay (if you share a room with someone), your meals, getting around, and fun activities.
Is it better to visit Oahu or Maui?
Maui is a peaceful place with rugged landscapes, while Oahu is famous for its stunning beaches and busy city life. So, whether you want a quiet getaway or an active vacation, you’ll find something you love in Hawaii.
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Final Words by Team Fix The Life
If you’re on the lookout for the cheapest Hawaiian Island to explore, Oahu is your top pick. Personally, I find Oahu to be my second favorite island in Hawaii, just after Kauai.
But no matter which Hawaiian island you choose to visit, Hawaii itself promises an extraordinary experience that will create unforgettable memories. With its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, Hawaii offers a wide range of activities.
Whether you’re keen on hiking to a waterfall, riding the waves, or simply lounging on the beach, Hawaii provides the ideal backdrop to relax and get in touch with nature.
I hope we answered your question ” what is the cheapest Hawaiian island.” Are you now planning to visit the most affordable Hawaiian island? Let us know about your trip.
Cheapest Hawaiian Island
- Oahu
- Maui
- Ewa Beach
- Kauai
- Big Island
Thanks for taking the time to read our article. Until next time, Aloha
