Moving to Hawaii checklist: Research island lifestyle and culture. Understand cost of living. Secure employment opportunities. Arrange housing in advance. Explore local healthcare options. Plan for vehicle shipping or purchase. Learn about inter-island travel options. Register for schools if applicable. Get familiar with weather patterns. Set up utilities and services.
Research island lifestyle and culture.
Adapting to the island lifestyle and culture in Hawaii requires embracing the Aloha Spirit, a genuine and heartfelt way of treating others with love and respect. This involves observing local customs like removing shoes when entering homes, a sign of respect and cleanliness, and actively participating in community activities such as hula performances and cultural festivals, which are essential for smoothly integrating into the community. Understanding the relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle is equally important, along with the significance of respecting Hawaiian culture and pronunciation. Despite the unique challenges of island living, such as limited access to certain goods, the journey offers a profound appreciation of a strong sense of community. For those considering a move, the Ultimate Guide to Moving to Hawaii provides valuable insights into the lifestyle and necessary preparations, ensuring a seamless transition to this vibrant and culturally rich destination.
Understand cost of living.
Moving to Hawaii involves understanding a highly expensive cost of living, with housing costs averaging between $2,399 to $2,850 per month. Additionally, food prices are 71% higher than the mainland, and other expenses, such as healthcare and insurance, are also significantly higher. A comfortable life in Hawaii typically requires an annual income of at least $80,000 to $100,000 for a single person. To get more detailed information, you may visit the Hawaii Guide online.
Secure employment opportunities.
To secure employment opportunities in Hawaii, it is crucial to research and apply for jobs before moving, as employers often prefer candidates already living in Hawaii. Utilize resources like Craigslist Hawaii, Twitter, Facebook groups, and local job engines to find and apply for jobs, especially in industries like tourism, construction, and skilled trades. For more insights on moving to Hawaii and successfully finding a job, visit Living In Hawaii, a valuable resource that offers comprehensive guidance tailored to these unique challenges.
Arrange housing in advance.
When considering a move to Hawaii, it's crucial to arrange housing well in advance by thoroughly researching the island and neighborhood you'd like to reside in. Engaging with a realtor to organize home viewings prior to your arrival can be beneficial. While it's feasible to find a rental within a week or two, purchasing a home could take months, necessitating careful budgeting for temporary living expenses. Booking a VRBO or other temporary accommodation at least five nights in advance is advisable. A week before your move, reaching out to agents or private landlords to schedule showings is essential. Be ready to apply for rentals immediately, equipped with all necessary documents and funds. Given the high housing costs in Hawaii, downsizing might be necessary, and renting remains a viable option. For more comprehensive guidance, consider visiting the Hawaii Guide for a detailed moving checklist. Planning your budget in advance and attempting to view rentals in person can help secure a longer-term agreement.
Explore local healthcare options.
When moving to Hawaii, it is important to explore local healthcare options through the ACA Marketplace on HealthCare.gov, where two private insurers offer individual and family plans. You might also consider employer-sponsored health coverage, Medicaid (Med-QUEST), or Medicare, with additional resources available through Hawaii's Insurance Division and Medicaid programs. These options ensure you have access to necessary healthcare services in your new home.
Plan for vehicle shipping or purchase.
To ship a car to Hawaii, ensure the vehicle is in good running condition, clean, and has less than a quarter tank of fuel. You will need specific documentation, including a valid driver's license, current registration, title, and lien holder authorization if applicable. Be prepared for a shipping process that typically takes between five to twenty days. On Auto Star Transport, various shipping options are available to accommodate your needs and budget, offering an average cost range between $1,500 and $2,500. Alternatively, you can buy a car before moving to Hawaii by reserving a vehicle remotely through dealerships like Big Island Motors. This allows you to handle all paperwork electronically and conveniently pick up your vehicle upon arrival, simplifying your transition and reducing stress.
Learn about inter-island travel options.
To travel between Hawaiian islands, you can fly with airlines like Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Mokulele Airlines, which offer the most convenient and affordable option with flight times ranging from 30 to 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a ferry between Maui and Lanai, or consider a cruise or guided day trips for other travel options. For more detailed information, visit the website on Travel Between Islands in Hawaii, which provides comprehensive insights into the best methods of inter-island travel in the region.
Register for schools if applicable.
To register your child for school in Hawaii, it is essential to gather required documents such as a completed enrollment form, birth certificate, valid photo ID of the parent or guardian, proof of current address, and health records. Registration can be completed either online or in person, and students will commence their schooling two days after the completed registration packet is received. For more detailed information and to access the required forms, you can visit the Registration and Required Documents page. Ensuring all these steps are completed timely will facilitate a smooth enrollment process for your child.
Get familiar with weather patterns.
When moving to Hawaii, it's crucial to understand the consistent yet varied weather patterns, with two main seasons: summer (May to October) and winter (November to April). These seasons are characterized by minor temperature changes, localized rainfalls, and significant variations in climate zones across different islands and elevations. For detailed insights into these weather patterns, visit the comprehensive guide on Hawaii Weather, which offers valuable information to help you prepare for living in this tropical paradise.
Set up utilities and services.
To set up electric service in Hawaii, it is essential to give one business day's advance notice and pay a service establishment fee. You can efficiently manage your electrical services by logging into your Online Customer Account or visiting the relevant utility company's office, depending on the island you are relocating to. For a more comprehensive approach to setting up utilities in this beautiful island paradise, including electricity, water, gas, and internet, it is critical to contact the specific service providers for each island. This includes companies such as Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric, or Kauai Island Utility Cooperative, and involves completing the necessary application forms or visiting their offices to ensure a smooth transition.