Hawaii

Coastal Beaches

Cost of Living: Very High

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (TheBus, Maui Bus, relatively safe)

Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, is a unique archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is composed of hundreds of islands spread over 1,500 miles, with the eight main islands being Hawai'i, Maui, O'ahu, Kaua'i, Moloka'i, Lāna'i, Ni'ihau, and Kaho'olawe. Known for its lush landscapes, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii is a melting pot of ethnicities and traditions, which is reflected in its diverse cuisine, language, and customs. The state's economy is primarily driven by tourism, with millions of visitors drawn to its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic landmarks such as the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and the historic Pearl Harbor. Hawaii's natural beauty extends from the crystal-clear waters to the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, and up to the high peaks of its volcanic mountains, such as Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The state's climate varies from tropical in the lower elevations to arctic at the summits of the highest peaks, creating a range of environments for a variety of outdoor activities. Despite its paradise-like setting, Hawaii faces challenges such as environmental threats, a dependence on imported goods, and a high cost of living due to its remote location. Nevertheless, the Aloha Spirit—a sense of warmth and friendliness—is a hallmark of the Hawaiian way of life, making it a welcoming place for both residents and visitors alike.

Nomad Lifestyle

B+

Private Schools

A-

Family Friendly

B+

Single Friendly

A-

Senior Friendly

B-

Crime

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

Cost of Living

Recreation

Nightlife

Restaurants

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the United States, largely due to its remote location and reliance on imported goods for many necessities.

Weather

Hawaii has a tropical climate with considerable variations in weather across different regions and elevations. The islands experience warm temperatures year-round, with coastal areas typically seeing highs in the 80s°F (27-32°C). There is a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October, although regional variations can be significant. The higher elevations can be much cooler, and some mountain tops even receive snowfall.

Educational System Hawaii

The educational system in Hawaii is unique in that it is the only state with a single, unified state school district. The Hawaii Department of Education oversees all public schools in the state, providing education to over 180,000 students. Education in Hawaii is compulsory for children from the age of 5 until 18, or until they graduate from high school. The grade levels are similar to those on the mainland, starting with kindergarten, followed by elementary school (grades 1-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). Students typically start kindergarten at the age of 5 and graduate from high school at around 17 or 18 years old. Hawaii's public schools offer a standard American curriculum, but they also place a strong emphasis on local culture and history, including the Hawaiian language and traditions. Private schools are also available and offer various educational philosophies and curricula. The state has a diverse student population and provides various programs to cater to different needs, including special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and gifted and talented programs. Parents moving to Hawaii from another country can expect a welcoming environment for their children, with schools that strive to incorporate multicultural perspectives and a spirit of 'Aloha.'

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Best Places to Live in Hawaii

Discover the top-ranked towns in Hawaii. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in Hawaii

University Costs: high

The university system in Hawaii is anchored by the University of Hawaii (UH) system, which is the state's public higher education institution. The UH system includes three universities: the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the University of Hawaii at Hilo, and the University of Hawaii-West Oahu, as well as seven community colleges and various education and research centers. The system offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Students from other countries considering attending university in Hawaii will find a diverse and inclusive environment, with a strong emphasis on research, particularly in areas such as oceanography, astronomy, and tropical agriculture. The academic year typically starts in August and ends in May, divided into two semesters. A bachelor's degree usually takes four years to complete, while master's and doctoral programs can take an additional two to six years, depending on the field of study. The UH system is known for its unique programs in Hawaiian studies, marine biology, and volcanology, among others. Foreign students will need to obtain a student visa and may have access to various resources, including international student offices, to help with the transition to living and studying in Hawaii. Costs for international students are higher than for residents, and financial aid opportunities may be limited for non-residents, so it's important to plan finances accordingly.

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