1. The islands themselves are filled with free things to do. There are expensive tourist traps everywhere in Hawaii, but the locals know how to have fun for free. There are flea markets, museums, tours, and plenty of outdoor activities. The world-class beaches are still free!
2. There are two ways to have more money, earn more or spend less. One thing you won’t be spending your money on in Hawaii is an expensive fitness club. The temperatures ensure you can get outside and exercise all year long.
3. Forget paying for tanning beds too. There is plenty of sunshine to be had in Hawaii.
4. Depression causes many expensive side-effects—but Hawaii has very low incidences of depression. In fact, many doctors believe the sunshine and fresh air have many health benefits that lead to good mental health. The point is, when you feel good naturally, you will probably spend less money going out to eat, shopping for things you don’t really need, or engaging in expensive activities so you have something to do. Live happier and you are content to do more things that don’t cost money.
5. You don’t drive far to get anywhere in Hawaii because you are on an island. Unless you drive in circles, there really isn’t that far to go. You won’t burn expensive gas and there won’t be much wear and tear on your car. That said, most islanders do not have cars. If you live in any city, you can get by without a car and nobody will think you’re poor or weird. Dump that expensive car payment and live the Hawaiian way. Walk, ride bikes, or take a scooter around town. You will fit right in.
6. Rent in Hawaii is about the same as many metropolitan areas like San Diego or New York. Your standard apartment is about $1300/month. Many people pay more than that on the mainland. If you are willing to give up some space, so you can live in paradise, you can probably afford to rent an apartment in Hawaii. For example, if you currently pay $850 per month for housing, plus utilities, and you have a decent car with insurance, chances are you will be paying about the same cost for rent in Hawaii (without the car). Many jobs in Hawaii pay more too.
7. Costco is your friend. You have probably heard that food is very expensive in Hawaii. Not for locals. Locals shop at Costco and get almost everything they need at about the same cost mainlanders pay. You may have to be innovative to find storage room when you shop in bulk, but food really is not more expensive if you stay away from stores near touristy areas.
8. Dump that expensive wardrobe! Nobody dresses up for anything in Hawaii. With very few exceptions, even professionals wear shorts and flip flops (“slippas” as they are called by locals). Hawaiians typically save over $1,000 a year on clothes. Also, because the clothes you will wear everyday are lightweight, more can fit in a washing machine. It’s cheaper to do laundry when you wear casual clothes all the time. The savings add up!
9. It goes without saying, your utilities are cheap in Hawaii. It is beautiful in the day, cool at night (perfect for sleeping), and the trade winds keep everything comfortable. You won’t spend hundreds of dollars every month cooling your house, or heating it either. Factor this year-round savings into your monthly housing costs and Hawaii looks more affordable all the time!
10. The best reason Hawaii is more affordable than you think is because of the people. Nobody cares what car you have, or what brand of clothes you wear. In fact, despite all the best efforts of mainland commercialism, Hawaiians just don’t have the same level of consumerism. You will never have to spend more than you want so people respect you. Nobody has the luxury car to make a statement, and very few people own property. It’s assumed that everyone rents. Nobody will try to find out how much you make. They don’t care. So you don’t have to spend to keep up appearances. Instead, put your money in the bank and go to the beach. Aloha!