How Is Living On Hawaii Different From Mainland USA?
There are many reasons why people choose to move to Hawaii. Some people are looking for a change in scenery, while others are looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. Whatever the reason, one thing is for sure: living on Hawaii is different than living on the mainland United States. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the main differences between the two locations. Keep reading to learn more!
Each Island Has Its Own Small Differences
Hawaii is a truly unique place, made up of a chain of islands with their own individual atmospheres. While all the islands share a laid-back, welcoming vibe, each one has its own character. Oahu, for example, is the most populous island and home to the state capital of Honolulu. It’s a vibrant, busy place with plenty to see and do. In contrast, Kauai is often called “the Garden Isle” for its lush, green landscape. This island is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a more peaceful setting.
If you’re thinking about moving to Hawaii, it’s worth doing some research to find the island that best suits your needs. Regardless of which island you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy the Aloha spirit that pervades all of Hawaii. We even have a full guide that helps you decide what Hawaiian island you should move to.
Housing Prices & Goods
While it’s true that certain things can be more expensive in Hawaii, it’s not as bad as some people make it out to be.
Yes, housing is one of the biggest expenses and many people live with family or find roommates to split the costs. However, you can always find ways to cut down on other living expenses if you know where to look. For example, food isn’t necessarily more expensive here than it is in other parts of the country. In fact, you can find some amazing deals at the farmer’s markets or take advantage of the rewards and savings programs at grocery stores. You can always find good deals on used items online or at thrift stores. Hawaii is a great place to live if you value and prioritize the unique environment of the islands as long as willing to look around and be resourceful.
Nice Weather All of The Time
A lot of people say Hawaii has some of the most comfortable weather in the world. The Hawaiian Islands have relatively stable temperatures year-round. With an average temperature of only about 78 degrees in “winter” and a summer average of 85 degrees, it’s easy to see why so many people flock to the islands each year.
You can also experience a diverse range of climates, especially on the Big Island. From the lush rainforests of Kauai to the snowy caps on Mauna Kea of the Big Island, Hawaii has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or an adventure-filled vacation, Hawaii is sure to please.
Hawaii’s consistent weather will certainly keep you’re wardrobe simple!
It Rains & The Weather Changes Quickly
While Hawaii is mostly known for its lush jungles and beautiful beaches, the reality is that without rain, neither of those things would exist. Hawaii does receive its fair share of rain, receiving an average of 25-30 inches of rain per year, mostly around the colder seasons.
Keep in mind that the rain does typically not last long, and the chances are high that 5 minutes after it starts it will stop. You can even drive around less than an hour to another part of the island to escape it!
Get Used To Sunscreen
Get ready to use lots of sunscreen. Because the islands are so close to the equator, the sun is very strong and can cause serious damage if you’re not careful. Use a high-SPF sunscreen, and reapply often, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. And don’t forget to protect your lips with a balm that contains SPF. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the Hawaiian sun without any worries! Just make sure that your sunscreen is reef-safe. Although non-reef-safe sunscreen is legally approved by the FDA, it is banned in the State of Hawaii as it harms the ocean around us. All the sunscreen you purchase in-state is reef-safe so leave your out-of-state sunscreen behind!
The Tap Water Is Great
Hawaii has some of the highest quality tap water in the world. In fact, the Board of Water Supply has consistently ranked Hawaii’s tap water as being among the best in terms of both quality and taste. Hawaii’s water is sourced via underground pumps that retrieve water from within our mountains and then filtered by the Board of Water Supply. Due to the higher level of rainfall, the water is constantly being replenished and refreshed. While this may seem like a minor deal to some, it’s just another reason that makes Hawaii such a great place to live.
Transportation
Unless you’re planning on living in Honolulu and never leaving, a car is necessary if you’re moving to Hawaii. While the populated areas do have bus systems, uber, and taxi systems, they may not always be reliable or cost-effective. A car makes living on any Hawaiian island much more convenient and enjoyable. Plus, with a car, you don’t have to worry about lugging all your groceries on the bus! If you’re moving to Hawaii, you should remember that freighting a car from the mainland U.S. or buying a car is well worth the investment. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did!
Hawaii Is An Amazing Location
While we can’t go over every single difference between the mainland U.S. and Hawaii, these are some of the major points you should consider. It’s a beautiful place with some unique aspects to living here, but don’t be deterred. If you’re interested in moving to Hawaii and the points mentioned in this article don’t raise any major red flags for you – make the move!
Thank you for reading, and we hope this has helped you learn more about Hawaii.
Need A Job? Consider Kauai Sea Tours!
Know how to drive boats? Have a history of being a captain? We at Kauai Sea Tours are now hiring boat captains! Apply here!