Maui vs Big Island Cost of Living: Which Hawaiian Island to Call Home

maui cost of living vs big island,Lifestyle & Living

Quick Facts

• Maui has a higher cost of living compared to the Big Island, with a median home price of around $820,000 versus $430,000 on the Big Island.
• The overall cost of living index in Maui is 196.3, while on the Big Island it’s 174.2, indicating that Maui is about 12% more expensive.
• Rent on Maui averages around $2,300 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment, whereas on the Big Island it’s around $1,800 per month.
• Food prices on Maui are about 10-15% higher compared to the Big Island, with a gallon of milk costing around $6.50 on Maui versus $5.50 on the Big Island.
• Transportation costs, including gas and car maintenance, are similar on both islands, but parking and traffic can be more challenging on Maui.
• The lifestyle on Maui is often described as more fast-paced and tourist-oriented, while the Big Island is known for its more laid-back and rural atmosphere.
• Outdoor activities like surfing, snorkeling, and hiking are abundant on both islands, but Maui’s beaches and resorts are more developed.
• Job opportunities on Maui are more concentrated in the tourism and hospitality industries, while the Big Island has a stronger focus on agriculture and renewable energy.
• The Big Island has a more diverse geography, with active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and rainforests, while Maui is known for its scenic Road to Hana and waterfalls.
• Overall, while both islands offer a unique and desirable lifestyle, Maui’s higher cost of living and faster pace may make the Big Island a more appealing choice for those seeking a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle.

Table of Contents

• Maui Life vs Big Island Life: Cost of Living Comparison
• Affordability of Housing
• Food Costs
• Transportation Costs
• Healthcare Costs
• Taxes
• Quality of Life
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Resources & Links
• For Buyers & Sellers

Maui Life vs Big Island Life: Cost of Living Comparison

Are you thinking of moving to Hawaii but can’t decide between the beautiful islands of Maui and the Big Island? Both islands offer a unique lifestyle, breathtaking landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere, but when it comes to cost of living, there are some significant differences to consider. As a licensed real estate company specializing in Hawaii properties, we’ll break down the costs of living in Maui and the Big Island to help you make an informed decision.

Affordability of Housing

Housing costs are one of the primary factors to consider when evaluating the cost of living in different locations. Both Maui and the Big Island have experienced rising housing costs in recent years, but the prices vary between the two islands.

As shown in the table above, the median home price in Maui is significantly higher than on the Big Island. Additionally, rent for a 1-bedroom apartment or house can cost upwards of $2,000 per month on Maui, compared to around $1,800 on the Big Island.

Food Costs

Food costs can also vary between Maui and the Big Island, with the added bonus of different cuisine options. Maui is known for its farm-to-table movement, while the Big Island offers fresh seafood and locally grown produce.

On average, dinner prices tend to be slightly higher on Maui, but the quality of food is often considered superior.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs can add up quickly, especially if you own a vehicle. Gas prices are generally higher in Hawaii compared to the mainland, but tax rates vary between the two islands.

The tax rates on gas are slightly higher on Maui, which could result in higher transportation costs over time.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern for individuals and families considering relocation. Hawaii is generally considered to have high healthcare costs compared to the mainland.

Insurance premiums for a single person tend to be higher on Maui, but the quality of care is consistently high.

Taxes

Taxes are another essential factor to consider when evaluating the cost of living between Maui and the Big Island. Hawaii has a complex tax system, but some of the key tax rates are as follows:

As shown in the table, tax rates are the same for income tax, sales tax, and general excise tax between the two islands.

Quality of Life

When considering the cost of living in Maui or the Big Island, it’s essential to evaluate the overall quality of life. From outdoor recreation and amenities to community engagement and civic activities, there are unique benefits and drawbacks to each island.

Whether you prioritize tranquility, access to the outdoors, or community engagement, each island has its unique selling points.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Q: What is the overall cost of living in Maui compared to the Big Island
  A: The cost of living in Maui is generally higher than on the Big Island, with Maui being about 30 to 50 percent more expensive.
• Q: How do housing costs compare between Maui and the Big Island
  A: Housing costs on Maui are significantly higher than on the Big Island, with the median home price on Maui being around $800,000 compared to around $400,000 on the Big Island.
• Q: What about food prices, how do they compare
  A: Food prices are also higher on Maui, with a gallon of milk costing around $8 dollars on Maui compared to around $6 dollars on the Big Island.
• Q: How do transportation costs compare
  A: Gasoline prices are slightly higher on Maui, but the main difference in transportation costs comes from the fact that Maui has limited public transportation options, making it necessary for many residents to own a car.
• Q: What about lifestyle differences, how do Maui and the Big Island compare
  A: Maui is generally more touristy and fast-paced, with a more developed nightlife and cultural scene, the Big Island is more rural and laid-back, with a stronger sense of community.
• Q: Are there any significant differences in job opportunities between Maui and the Big Island
  A: Job opportunities are more limited on the Big Island, with a smaller job market and lower average salaries, Maui has a more diverse economy, with a stronger focus on tourism and technology.
• Q: How do education options compare
  A: Both Maui and the Big Island have good public school systems, but Maui has more private school options and is home to the University of Hawaii Maui College.
• Q: What about healthcare options
  A: Both islands have good healthcare options, but Maui has a wider range of medical specialists and facilities, including a larger hospital.
• Q: Are there any other significant lifestyle differences
  A: Yes, the Big Island has a more rural and outdoorsy lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, Maui is more developed and urbanized, with a greater focus on beach activities and water sports.

Resources & Links

• Hawaii Beach Guide: Maui Cost of Living Calculator
• Big Island Now – Big Island vs. Maui: Cost of Living Comparison
• Niche – 2022 Hawaii Big Island Cost of Living Index
• Maui Cost of Living: Housing, Food and Transportation
• Hawaii Business Magazine – Cost of Living Comparison: Oahu, Maui and the Big Island

For Buyers & Sellers

Living the Dream: A Personal Summary of the Maui Cost of Living vs the Big Island

As a seasoned real estate expert, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless individuals and families through the process of buying and selling homes on two of Hawaii’s most sought-after islands: Maui and the Big Island. While both destinations offer unparalleled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and an unrivaled sense of aloha, the cost of living and lifestyle differences between these two islands can have a significant impact on home buyers and sellers.

The Lure of Maui

Maui, with its stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and vibrant cultural scene, is often considered the epitome of island living. However, this paradise comes at a cost. The median home price on Maui is significantly higher than on the Big Island, with prices averaging around $840,000 compared to $530,000 on the Big Island. This price disparity can be a significant hurdle for many homebuyers, particularly first-time buyers or those on a fixed income.

The Charm of the Big Island

In contrast, the Big Island offers a more laid-back, rural lifestyle at a lower cost. With its vast open spaces, black sand beaches, and active volcanoes, the Big Island presents a unique blend of natural beauty and affordability. Home prices are generally more accessible, and the cost of living is significantly lower than on Maui.

The Impact on Home Buyers and Sellers

These factors have significant implications for both home buyers and sellers:

Buyers:

• Must carefully consider their budget and prioritize their needs versus wants.
• May need to compromise on location, size, or amenities to find an affordable option on Maui.
• Should research and consider the Big Island as a more budget-friendly alternative.
• Need to weigh the pros and cons of a more rural lifestyle on the Big Island versus the more developed infrastructure and amenities on Maui.

Sellers:

• Must price their properties competitively, taking into account the local market conditions and buyer preferences.
• Should highlight the unique advantages of their property, such as its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and potential for off-grid living.
• Need to be prepared to negotiate on price, particularly if their property is located on the Big Island, where prices may be more sensitive to market fluctuations.