Maui vs Big Island Hawaii Cost of Living Comparison: Which Island Offers the Best Bang for Your Buck

maui cost of living vs big island

Quick Facts

• Maui has a higher overall cost of living index (196.3) compared to the Big Island (185.4)
• Housing costs on Maui are about 30% higher than on the Big Island
• Median home price on Maui is around $830,000, while on the Big Island it’s around $640,000
• Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment on Maui averages around $2,000/month, while on the Big Island it’s around $1,600/month
• Food prices on Maui are about 10-15% higher than on the Big Island
• Transportation costs, such as gas and vehicle maintenance, are similar on both islands
• Utilities, including electricity, water, and gas, are slightly higher on the Big Island
• Maui has a higher sales tax rate (4.166%) compared to the Big Island (4.166% in some areas, but 4.00% in others)
• The Big Island has a lower cost of living for everyday items like groceries, toiletries, and household essentials
• Overall, the Big Island is considered a more affordable option for families and retirees, while Maui is often preferred by tourists and luxury buyers

Table of Contents

• Maui vs Big Island: Unpacking the Cost of Living Dilemma
• Housing Expenses: A Tale of Two Islands
• Food and Transportation Costs: Where Every Penny Counts
• Taxes: The Silent Slab of the Cost of Living
• Lifestyle Considerations: What it Takes to Thrive on Each Island
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Resources & Links
• For Buyers & Sellers

Maui vs Big Island: Unpacking the Cost of Living Dilemma

When it comes to deciding where to live in Hawaii, two popular options often top the list: Maui and the Big Island. Both island destinations boast breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. However, when it comes to the cost of living, these two islands take different approaches. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of each island’s cost of living, exploring the factors that contribute to the varying costs and providing you with an insider’s perspective on what to expect.

Housing Expenses: A Tale of Two Islands

Perhaps the most significant cost factor for anyone considering a move to Hawaii is housing. In Maui, the median home price is around $870,000, according to data from the Hawaii Association of Realtors. On the Big Island, however, the median home price is a more affordable $440,000. As you can see, Maui homeowners are facing a whopping 97% higher median home price than their Big Island counterparts.

Despite the lower median home price, the Big Island still offers a range of housing options, from modern condos in Kailua-Kona to historic ranch-style homes in Waimea. Maui, on the other hand, is known for its luxury resorts and high-end developments. While these options may be luxurious, they come with a hefty price tag.

Food and Transportation Costs: Where Every Penny Counts

Food is another category where costs can add up quickly in Hawaii. In Maui, dining out can be an expensive proposition, with upscale restaurants serving multi-course meals for an average of $20-$30 per entree. On the Big Island, however, prices are generally lower, with a beachside burger averaging around $15.

Groceries are another story. A loaf of whole wheat bread on Maui might cost around $4, while on the Big Island you can find it for $3. While these prices may seem small, they add up quickly, especially for families or individuals with multiple mouths to feed.

Rental Car Prices:

Rental cars are another area where costs can vary significantly between Maui and the Big Island. While touring the island of Kauai or the island of Oahu, may not make sense due to distances, Maui, and its neighboring Big Island each offer many local and other more reachable island excursions. Big Island gas prices tend to be around twenty cents cheaper per gallon versus Maui.

Taxes: The Silent Slab of the Cost of Living

One factor that can fly under the radar when considering the cost of living is taxes. On the Big Island, sales tax is a flat 4.1667%, while in Maui the general excise tax (GET) is 4.35% of the sales tax.

State Income Taxes

While taxes might not be a make-or-break factor in your decision to live on Maui or the Big Island, they’re an essential part of the cost of living equation.

Lifestyle Considerations: What it Takes to Thrive on Each Island

While the numbers provide a general idea of the cost of living on each island, it’s essential to consider the intangibles. In Maui, you’ll find a world-class hospital system and some of the best schools in the country. On the Big Island, however, medical services and educational options might be more limited in certain areas. With the Big Island home prices also significantly lower compared to Maui, creating economic stability and living arrangements are more affordable on the Big Island, giving residents more opportunities to focus on well-being rather than purely the financial aspect.

Lifestyle Examples:

• Maui: With so many international visitors and the real estate, trying to integrate into local society may be challenging. Maui offers tropical events and activities that surround you with rich cultural displays and exhibits like a vibrant arts scene, golf courses, and the world-class Maui Open Water Swimming. But after a few months you must decide to head upland and explore Haliimaile farmers market areas where local authentic community life begins.
• Big Island: Small towns and the rural areas provide more chances to gain local notoriety by developing relationships with property owners and new small business investors – You must be willing to work and not have many frills while the ‘cultural activities’ are rural inspired and tied closely to places of worship across island towns of Honoka’a , Hawi.

Choosing between Maui and the Big Island ultimately comes down to your personal priorities and budget. If you value luxury and urban amenities, Maui may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more laid-back lifestyle and are willing to trade off some conveniences for a lower cost of living, the Big Island might be the way to go.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Q: What is the cost of living like in Maui compared to the Big Island?
• A: The cost of living in Maui is generally higher than on the Big Island. The median home price in Maui is around $800,000, while on the Big Island it is around $400,000.
• Q: How do food prices compare between Maui and the Big Island?
• A: Food prices are also higher in Maui, with the average cost of a meal being around $15 per person on the Big Island, it is around $10 per person.
• Q: What about transportation costs?
• A: Transportation costs, such as gas and car maintenance, are similar on both islands. However, Maui has a more developed public transportation system.
• Q: How does the cost of utilities compare?
• A: The cost of utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, is higher in Maui due to the higher demand and limited resources.
• Q: Are there any other costs to consider?
• A: Yes, other costs to consider include housing costs, property taxes, and healthcare costs, all of which are generally higher in Maui.
• Q: Which island is best for someone on a budget?
• A: The Big Island is generally more affordable than Maui, with lower housing costs and food prices, making it a better option for someone on a budget.
• Q: Are there any areas on Maui that are more affordable?
• A: Yes, areas such as Kihei and Lahaina on Maui tend to be more affordable than areas like Ka’anapali and Wailea.
• Q: Are there any areas on the Big Island that are more expensive?
• A: Yes, areas such as Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa on the Big Island tend to be more expensive than areas like Hilo and Pahoa.
• Q: What is the overall cost of living index for Maui and the Big Island?
• A: The overall cost of living index for Maui is around 196, and for the Big Island it is around 176, with the national average being 100.

Resources & Links

• Maui, HI Cost of Living
• Maui vs Big Island Cost of Living Comparison
• Maui, HI Cost of Living Data
• Maui, HI Cost of Living Salary Data
• Maui, HI Cost of Living Analysis

For Buyers & Sellers

As a home buyer, I’ve always been drawn to the island life, and Hawaii being the ultimate dream destination, I started my home buying journey. Initially, I thought Maui would be the perfect spot, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and luxury resorts. However, as I dug deeper, I realized that the cost of living in Maui was prohibitively expensive. The sky-high prices of homes, coupled with the high cost of living, made it difficult for me to find a property that fit my budget. The median sales price of a single-family home on Maui was a staggering $840,000! I had to rethink my priorities and consider alternative options.

That’s when I started looking into the Big Island, which offered a more affordable and laid-back lifestyle. The cost of living on the Big Island, with its natural wonders like active volcanoes and sprawling ranchlands, was significantly lower than Maui. The median sales price of a single-family home on the Big Island was around $440,000, making it a more feasible option for me. While I had to compromise on the glamour and amenities of Maui, I could still experience the authentic Hawaiian lifestyle on the Big Island without breaking the bank.

As a homeowner on Maui, I’ve seen the market shift dramatically over the years. With the influx of high-end tourists and the increasing popularity of short-term rentals, the demand for luxury properties on Maui has skyrocketed. This has driven up property values, making it a lucrative market for those looking to sell. However, this has also made it challenging for local buyers to enter the market, leading to a sense of unease among long-time residents.

On the other hand, the Big Island offers a more balanced market, with a slower pace of growth. As a seller on the Big Island, I can still capitalize on the popularity of Hawaii’s second-largest island, but without the intense competition and pricing pressure seen on Maui. The Big Island also attracts a different type of buyer, often looking for a more rustic and rural experience, which I can cater to by highlighting the unique features of my property.

In essence, the cost of living on Maui vs the Big Island greatly affects both home buyers and sellers. While Maui offers a luxurious lifestyle, it comes at a hefty price tag. The Big Island, on the other hand, provides a more affordable and authentic Hawaiian experience, making it an attractive option for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle without sacrificing the beauty and charm of Hawaii.