Retiring in Hawaii (2026)

Hawaii ranks #31 of 51 nationally for retirement friendliness (72/100 vs national avg 73/100). Housing costs are #51 of 51 cheapest, and cost of living overall is significantly above the US average.

Retirement Score

Median Home

$815k

Nat'l avg $358k

Cost of Living

179(US=100)

Nat'l avg 103

Climate

tropical

Healthcare

78/100

Reasons to Retire Here

✓Perfect climate
✓No SS tax
✓Public pensions fully exempt
✓Cultural richness

Trade-Offs to Know

•Extreme cost of living
•Estate tax
•Geographic isolation
•Limited specialists

Climate for Older Adults

Hawaii's climate is tropical year-round with consistent warmth and humidity. Very popular with retirees escaping cold winters, though hurricane season is a real consideration.

Total Financial Picture

The key financial factors for a Hawaii retirement:

• Housing: Median home value $815,000. That's about $457k more expensive than the national median.
• Cost of living index: 179 vs 100 US baseline — everyday goods like groceries, gas, and services run significantly above the US average.
• Tax friendliness: 72/100 — Social Security is exempt; pensions are partially exempt. See the full Hawaii tax guide.
• Healthcare access: 78/100 — good in metro areas, thinner in rural regions.
• Safety: 62/100 — average safety statewide with meaningful city-to-city variation.

Hawaii is a solid middle-tier retirement destination. Financial factors are workable; the deciding factor is usually climate, family proximity, or specific lifestyle preferences.

Safety & Crime

62/100

Average safety statewide with significant city-to-city variation. Research specific towns before choosing.

Common Questions — Retiring in Hawaii

Is Hawaii a tax-friendly state for retirees?

Hawaii scores 72/100 on our tax friendliness scale. Social Security is exempt, but other retirement income is taxed. Property tax relief for seniors varies. See the full state tax breakdown.

What's the median home price in Hawaii?

About $815,000 statewide, though costs vary significantly by city. Popular retirement communities and coastal areas tend to run above the state median; rural areas run below.

Is healthcare access good in Hawaii?

Healthcare access scores 78/100. Good in urban and suburban areas; rural regions have fewer specialists. Consider proximity to a major medical center if you have chronic conditions.

Are there active senior communities in Hawaii?

Yes, but concentration varies by region. Look at MSAs (metropolitan statistical areas) that skew older; Hawaii has plenty of 55+ communities in metro suburbs.