Warm, sandy beaches, year-round mild weather, fresh tropical fruit, and the vibe of the Valley Isle make it irresistible for both visitors and residents who relocate here from elsewhere. Families, retirees, couples, and even singles want to live in Maui and more move in every day. But is it too expensive to live in Maui?
The short answer is it can be. Because many of the comforts people are accustomed to on the Mainland are shipped in from elsewhere, some aspects of everyday life can also become more expensive. A family of four needs a yearly income of about $120,000 to live here comfortable. But this figure is actually in keeping with many states in the US. Here is a list of states where annual median family income is over $100,000:
• Alaska
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin
Affordable Areas In Maui
Because Maui and Hawaii in general, are popular places for people to move to, the chain of supply affects our cost of living, including housing costs. But there are some areas of Maui that are less expensive than other parts, such as:
• Kihei on the Southside
• Kahului, Waikapu, and Wailuku in the Central region
• Napili on the West side
• Olinda and Makawao in the Upcountry
Because of its distant proximity from the popular tourist areas, Wailuku’s cost of living is roughly 14% less than Lahaina, the popular tourist destination on Maui’s west side. The area doesn’t have the same beachfront properties as other parts of Maui. Wailuku is more laid back and is a short drive to several of Maui’s favorite attractions.
Everyday Expenses
Food, fuel, medicine, and other everyday goods and supplies are shipped in from the Mainland. Big-box retailers like Costco and Walmart can help mitigate those expenses to an extent. Local grocers may also run specials that can help you save on food and other household goods.
Because Maui has considerable agriculture, it’s easier to find locally produced foods, which may be less expensive than anything imported.
Maui’s public transportation system is also budget-friendly. There are 14 routes that go to the most populated areas for $2 per trip. Seniors can ride for $1 per trip, and children under 5 are free. Depending on your needs, you may not need a car right away.
Although the Valley Isle is primarily powered by imported fossil fuels, Hawaii Electric is working to increase the availability of alternative power generation. This includes solar, wind, and hydroelectric generation. The goal is to eventually have most or all of the Aloha State’s power generated on the Islands, with little or no imported fossil fuels.
Reasons For Moving To Maui
While every place has its pros and cons, Maui’s are a little different. Our tropical and unique habitat is unmatched.
Maui has considerable diversity in people. You will probably notice more Asians here than other states given our unique history in the Pacific and our close proximity to Japan, China, and other nearby countries from that part of the world. People are generally friendly and welcoming. Our food and culture reflect our diversity and is an enjoyable aspect of Hawaii.
Maui is also safer than many large cities on the Mainland. With a population of a little over 160,000, Hawaii is the fifth safest state in America. Hawaii has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the US. It also has one of the lowest rates of gun ownership and gun deaths.
If you want to live rural, the Upcountry is the ideal place—especially if you want to live off-grid. It’s somewhat cooler than the rest of the Island because of the mountains. Having a bit of privacy to get away from the hustle and bustle is a real perk in this area of Maui.
Hana, on the east side of the Island, is also rural and somewhat isolated from the rest of Maui, and the climate is ideal for growing food year-round. Many people grow their own food here. Overall Maui homeowners enjoy a paradise like community.
Let Pro Draft Design Your Next Building Project
Pro Draft has been helping bring ideas to life in Maui for 30 years. We’re ready to help with drawings, interior design, “green design” with LEED certification, project management, and permit expedition.
We can help with architecture, drawings, blueprints, and permits, and answer all your questions before the first day of construction. We consider your budget and do our best to find affordable options and solutions to your building project.
We’re happy to help and will work to ensure your project is exactly the way you envision.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland