Hawaii is a very expensive place to live. Many come to Hawaii because they dream to live here, but sooner or later they are forced to leave because they can’t catch up with paying the bills. Many families have two or even more jobs, so they are able to cover the most necessary expenses.

The middle class person makes around $15 an hour. Many jobs though are still in the range of $8.00 - $10.00. Thus for those people $15 an hour is a luxury. To give you an example, couple of days ago in the newspaper I saw an ad of a famous food retailer who offer job and the text add was saying something like “you can make up to $15 (including tips and gas coverage)”. So wow, I wonder if this is the maximum they make, what is the minimum?!

Many people who come to Hawaii do not realize the pay here is really low, especially for those who do not have a degree or experience. But even with a degree you can’t always find a well paid job. Of course depends on your degree. If you are a computer expert or a doctor you can make really a good decent income. But even doctors in Hawaii make less than the ones on the mainland.

In addition of the low average income, the State of Hawaii has a state tax so every time you buy something in the store you should pay a bit over 4% more above the regular labeled price.

This is the cost of living in Paradise…