Local Tips To Offset The Cost Of Living In Hawaii

Considering a move to the Hawaiian islands? Market knowledge is built on more than stats – as a realtor and parent who regularly commutes across island, I’m here to help with more than just a home selection. When my family and I relocated to Oahu from New York, we were surprised to find that some of our expenses were lowered or even eliminated (i.e, our gigantic heating bill) while others were marginally raised. Those ratios will vary depending on your point of origin.

Where There’s A Will There’s A Way – & A Local Realtor To Help You

If your ambition to live in Hawaii is non-negotiable, you’ll find a way to make it happen. Higher priced apples or scaling back on the size of your home aren’t going to stop you. Following are some day-to-day tips to consider:

1. Gas: If you’re not authorized to purchase gas from a US military base, then Safeway and Costco typically have the lowest prices on Oahu. However, an electric vehicle can eliminate your need for gas – here’s a link to an article I wrote titled “The Pains & Gains of Electric Vehicle Ownership In Hawaii.” (You’ll also enjoy free parking at public meters, free parking at Honolulu International Airport, and get to use the HOV and Express Lanes with a single rider – bonus!)

2. Utilities: The use of incandescent bulbs, Energy Star appliances, photovoltaic panels, smart home technology, electricity/watering timers, xeriscaping, and keeping your home in good repair (i.e fixing leaky faucets) are some of the best ways to manage your usage levels. You may also want to consider the “Time of Use” program offered by Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric, and Hawaii Electric Light. If you shift the bulk of your usage to off-peak hours (including charging an electric car), you will be charged a reduced rate for electricity.

3. Groceries: We shop at 4 different stores (Costco, Foodland, Target, and Down to Earth) and a weekly farmers market to get the best deals on certain products. Military families have additional options on base as well. Local CSA’s (Community Supported Agriculture) offer another opportunity for fresh weekly produce. Try:

• Local Inside
• Fresh Aloha Direct
• Ma‘o Organic Farm

Interested in Homes with Photovoltaic Already Installed?

Here are a couple of homes currently for sale with photovoltaic already installed:

95-220 Hoaluhi Pl, Mililani 96789 (MLS# 201627054) | FS $999,000 USD

94-1048 Hoohele St, Waipahu 96797 (MLS# 201627073) | FS $710,000

91-1338 Kaikohola St #D35, Ewa Beach 96706 (MLS# 201625917) | FS $939,999

91-1001 Keaunui Dr #117, Ewa Beach 96706 (MLS# 201625362) | FS $600,000

More Information

If you would like to learn more about what it’s like to live in Hawaii, or would like additional information on any of the featured properties, please contact me.