The Ultimate Guide to Maui Living Expenses 2025: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Housing Costs, Food Prices, and More in Paradise

how much does it cost to live in maui 2025

Table of Contents

Quick Facts | The Cost of Living in Maui | Housing | Food | Transportation | Healthcare | Taxes | Frequently Asked Questions | Resources & Links | For Buyers & Sellers

Quick Facts

• The median home price in Maui is around $820,000 as of 2025.
• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Maui can range from $1,800 to $2,500 per month.
• The cost of groceries in Maui is 35% higher than the national average.
• A gallon of milk in Maui costs around $6.50, while a loaf of bread costs around $4.50.
• The average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Maui is $20-$30 per person.
• A single person’s monthly transportation cost in Maui can range from $500 to $1,000.
• The average cost of utilities (electricity, water, gas) for a one-bedroom apartment in Maui is around $200-$300 per month.
• Internet and TV services in Maui can cost around $100-$150 per month.
• The sales tax in Maui is 4.166%, while the average property tax is around 0.85% of the property’s value.
• The overall cost of living in Maui is around 45% higher than the national average, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the US.

The Cost of Living in Maui: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

If you’re considering moving to the Valley Isle, you’re probably wondering: how much does it cost to live in Maui? The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. However, in this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with living in Maui and provide insights to help you navigate the island’s unique economy.

Housing: The Biggest Expense

Housing costs in Maui are higher than in many other parts of the United States. The median sales price for a single-family home in Maui is around $1.2 million, which can be a significant hurdle for potential homebuyers. According to data from Hawaii Elite Real Estate, homes in popular areas like Kihei and Wailea often sell for upwards of $2 million.

Rentals: A More Affordable Option?

Renting a home or apartment in Maui can be a more affordable option, especially for those who don’t plan to stay long-term. However, prices are still high, particularly in desirable areas like Lahaina and Ka’anapali. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Lahaina can cost upwards of $1,800 per month.

Food: A Culinary Paradise

Food in Maui can be a delightful and varied experience, but it also comes with a price tag. Fresh seafood, farmers’ markets, and gourmet restaurants are scattered throughout the island, but they can also drain your wallet. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Lahaina can cost around $20-$30 per person.

Eating Out: Tips and Tricks

• Choose eateries in more affordable areas like Kihei or Kahului
• Opt for breakfast or brunch instead of dinner
• Look for happy hour deals or early bird specials
• Avoid eating out during peak tourist season (June to August)

Transportation: Getting Around the Island

Getting around Maui can be challenging, particularly if you don’t have a car. Ride-sharing services and public transportation are available, but they can be expensive. For example, a one-way trip from Kahului to Kihei can cost around $20-$30.

Transportation Options:

• Renting a car: $40-$60 per day
• Ride-sharing: $20-$30 per ride
• Public transportation: $3-$5 per ride
• Fuel prices: around $3.50 per gallon

Healthcare: Medical Care on the Island

Maui has several top-notch medical facilities, including Maui Memorial Medical Center and the Queen’s Medical Center. However, medical costs can be high, particularly for non-residents. For example, a doctor’s visit can cost upwards of $100.

Medical Costs:

• Doctor’s visit: $100-$200
• Hospital stay: $500-$1,000 per day
• Prescription medication: $10-$50 per prescription

Taxes: Adding to the Bill

As a resident of Maui, you’ll need to factor in Hawaii state taxes, which are among the highest in the country. Sales tax rates range from 4.166% to 8.25% depending on the location, and income tax rates can reach up to 8.25%.

Tax Breakdown:

• Sales tax: 4.166% to 8.25%
• Income tax: up to 8.25%
• General excise tax: 4.166%

Frequently Asked Questions:

FAQ about living in Maui

• Q: What is the average cost of housing in Maui?

  A: The average cost of housing in Maui can range from $800,000 to $1,200,000 for a single-family home and $400,000 to $700,000 for a condominium.

• Q: How much does it cost to rent a place in Maui?

  A: The average cost to rent a place in Maui can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $3,000 to $7,000 per month for a three-bedroom house.

• Q: What is the cost of food in Maui?

  A: The cost of food in Maui can range from $10 to $20 per meal for mid-range restaurants and $50 to $100 per meal for high-end restaurants. Grocery prices are also higher in Maui, with the average cost of a gallon of milk being $6 to $8 and a loaf of bread being $4 to $6.

• Q: How much does it cost to own a car in Maui?

  A: The cost to own a car in Maui can range from $500 to $1,000 per month, including gas, insurance, and maintenance. Gas prices are also higher in Maui, with the average cost being $4 to $6 per gallon.

• Q: What is the average cost of utilities in Maui?

  A: The average cost of utilities in Maui can range from $200 to $500 per month, including electricity, water, and gas. Internet and phone services can also range from $100 to $200 per month.

• Q: Are there any other costs to consider when living in Maui?

  A: Yes, there are other costs to consider when living in Maui, including:

  • Health insurance, which can range from $300 to $1,000 per month
  • Property taxes, which can range from $5,000 to $10,000 per year
  • Other expenses, such as entertainment and travel, which can range from $500 to $2,000 per month
• Q: Is it expensive to live in Maui?

  A: Yes, it can be expensive to live in Maui, but it depends on your lifestyle and budget. With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to live in Maui without breaking the bank. However, it is recommended to have a stable income and a significant amount of savings before making the move to Maui.

Resources & Links

For more information on the cost of living in Maui, please visit the following websites:

• https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Maui-HI
• https://www.expatsinmaui.com/living-in-maui-cost-of-living-prices/
• https://www.craigslist.org/about/sites/hawaii
• https://gohawaii.hawaii.gov/statewide-cost-of-living/
• https://www.bankrate.com/financial-literacy/cost-of-living/us/maui-hi/

For Buyers & Sellers

As a real estate enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the allure of Maui, Hawaii. Who wouldn’t want to call this tropical paradise home? However, as I delved deeper into the numbers, I realized that the dream of living in Maui comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of living in Maui in 2025 is a significant concern for both home buyers and sellers, and it’s essential to understand its implications.

For prospective home buyers, the high cost of living in Maui means that their dream home may be further out of reach than they anticipated. Here are a few ways this impacts buyers:

• Unaffordability: The median home price in Maui is around $800,000, which is significantly higher than the national average. This means that many buyers will need to consider renting or looking for alternative housing options.
• High Mortgage Payments: Even with a decent down payment, mortgage payments can be stifling, leaving little room for other expenses, savings, or entertainment.
• Increased Expenses: The cost of living in Maui is approximately 50% higher than the national average, which translates to higher prices for food, transportation, and other necessities.

For homeowners looking to sell their properties, the high cost of living in Maui presents both opportunities and challenges:

• High Demand: With Maui’s popularity, sellers can expect high demand for their properties, potentially driving up prices.
• Limited Supply: The island’s limited land and strict development regulations mean that inventory is often scarce, further driving up prices.
• Pricing Strategies: Sellers must carefully consider pricing strategies to attract buyers while still maximizing their returns.

The high cost of living in Maui in 2025 has broader implications for the local economy and community:

• Affordability Crisis: The lack of affordable housing options may lead to a shortage of essential workers, such as teachers, nurses, and first responders, who cannot afford to live on the island.
• Socio-Economic Disparities: The high cost of living can exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities, pushing low- and moderate-income families to the fringes of the island’s economy.

In conclusion, the cost of living in Maui in 2025 is a critical consideration for both home buyers and sellers. While the island’s beauty and charm are undeniable, it’s essential to carefully weigh the financial implications of living in this tropical paradise. As a real estate enthusiast, I believe it’s crucial to prioritize affordability, sustainability, and community development to ensure that the benefits of living in Maui are accessible to all.