Best Places to Live in Hawaii

Thousands of miles off California’s coast you’ll find a remote chain of volcanic islands and some of the most gorgeous scenery in the entire world – Hawaii. Though only declared a U.S. state as recently as 1959, Hawaii has become a top rental destination for those looking for vacation homes, a different way of living, or a place to call home after retirement.

If Hawaii is on your mind, you’ll need to pick one of the islands’ many unique islands and picturesque towns to call home. To help your search for the perfect Hawaii rental we’ve put together this list of three great places to live in Hawaii and what you can expect for amenities and cost of living. With some research and a determined mind, you can find the best place to live in Hawaii for you and your family.

Live in Mililani Town to Raise a Family

You’ll find Mililani northeast of Honolulu on Oahu. Mililani has been consistently rated by Hawaiians as one of the best places to raise a family. The small-town hosts less than 30,000 residents but has 45 schools for all the children and young families. Mililani is separated into two distinct town areas, Mililani Town, and Mililani Mauka.
Population: 27,629 (2010)

Average Rental Price for Mililani

A one-bedroom rental in Mililani averages $1,790 per month. A two-bed room costs $2,370 while a three-bedroom rental costs $3,430. Average rental prices in Mililani are slightly above the Hawaii state average.

Things to Do in Mililani

Mililani is less ‘touristy’ than other parts of Hawaii, but there’s still tons to do with your free time and places to get everyday chores done. You can take care of shopping and dining at the Town Center of Mililani, pick up island-fresh products at the Mililani Farmers Market or take the family out to lovely Mari’s Gardens.

Honolulu is Hawaii’s largest city with a population just shy of a half million. Normally city centers are among the most expensive places to rent but not in Honolulu, particularly East Honolulu, which houses affordable accommodations for several different budgets.
Population: 351,792 (2016)

Average Rental Price for Honolulu

A one-bedroom rental in Honolulu averages $1,595 per month. A two-bedroom costs $2,113 while three-bedroom rentals cost $3,054. Rental costs in Honolulu decrease in the suburbs outside Honolulu’s city center like East Honolulu. Average rental prices in Honolulu are slightly above the Hawaii state average.

Things to Do in Honolulu

Honolulu is Hawaii’s major city, so you can expect a lot to do no matter your age or interests. To enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty, you can venture to Diamond Head State Monument, the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, or Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve to name a couple. Lovers of history and culture will enjoy the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the Honolulu Museum of Art, or the Iolani Palace. There are dozens of independently owned restaurants, shops, and other entertainment venues. If you want the most diverse set of things to do in Hawaii, Honolulu should be your rental destination.

Journey to the west side (aka the Kona side) of Hawaii’s big island for the retiree paradise of Kailua-Kona. The Kona side of the big island is known for sugar sand beaches, bright sunshine, and a night sky that’s loaded with more stars than you’ve likely ever seen. With several affordable living options, clubs, and spectacular sunsets in-between, Kailua-Kona is an excellent place to call home.
Population: 11,975 (2010)

Average Rental Price for Kailua-Kona

A one-bedroom rental in Kailua-Kona averages $1,563 per month. A two-bedroom costs $2,067 while a three-bedroom rental costs $2,989 Average rental prices in Kailua-Kona are slightly above the Hawaii state average.

Things to Do in Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona is a great place to spend your free time with activities or to do nothing at all in a gorgeous setting. Due to its location on the Kona side, there are many beautiful nearby locales to while away your time like Mauna Kea, Kua Bay, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park for starters. If you’ve got little ones around, they’ll love the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm, the Kanaloa Octopus Farm, and other kid-oriented activities around the Kona area. After you’ve spent your day golfing at one of the many resorts, you can spend your twilight hours gazing up at Kailua-Kona’s legendary star-studded night sky.

Hawai’i is one the most remote, pristine places in the entire world and makes for an excellent place to vacation, retire, or call home. We recommend exploring all the different islands and their respective towns, then check out our houses for rent in Hawaii classified to find the home that’s right for you. Say “Aloha” to your current home and start enjoying the island life, you’ll thank us later.

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Photo credit: Anthony Quintano from Honolulu, HI, United States, Honolulu Hawaii Diamond Head (37870194535), CC BY 2.0.