What is the Best Side of Hawaii to Live?

When deciding on the best side of Hawaii to live, each island and region has something unique to offer. Whether it’s the sunny beaches of Kona, the lush landscapes of Hilo, or the vibrant city life on Oahu, the key is finding a location that fits your lifestyle. This guide covers everything—from Kona vs. Hilo living to what makes Maui and Kauai special. Let’s explore Hawaii’s different sides to help you decide which place feels like home.

Different Sides of the Big Island (Hawai’i Island)

1. West Side (Kona Side)

The west side of the Big Island, specifically around Kailua-Kona, is known for sunshine, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. It’s popular with both locals and expats because of its warm weather, minimal rain, and access to beaches.

• Weather: Mostly dry and sunny year-round
• Activities: Great snorkeling, beaches, resorts, and nightlife
• Cost of Living: Higher, especially for homes with ocean views
• Vibe: Laid-back, touristy, and social

If you love sunny weather, outdoor activities, and being close to shops and restaurants, the west side is probably for you. But keep in mind that the cost of living is higher, especially near the coast.

2. East Side (Hilo Side)

Now, Hilo on the east side is the complete opposite of Kona. It’s lush, green, and filled with waterfalls, but it also rains a lot more. Hilo is known for being more affordable and has a very local, down-to-earth vibe.

• Weather: Rainy, lush, cooler
• Activities: Waterfalls, botanical gardens, volcanoes
• Cost of Living: Lower than Kona
• Vibe: Small-town, local, artistic

If you love greenery, don’t mind a bit of rain, and want to be surrounded by nature, Hilo could be your place. The housing prices are more affordable, but you’ll need to be okay with frequent rain showers.

3. North Kohala & Waimea

This area offers cooler temperatures and a more country-like lifestyle. You get stunning mountain views and access to some of the best beaches in Hawaii, but it can also feel a bit remote.

• Weather: Cooler with occasional rain
• Activities: Hiking, farming, farmers markets
• Cost of Living: Moderate to high, especially in Waimea
• Vibe: Rural, peaceful

This area is perfect if you’re looking for a more peaceful, country lifestyle with easy access to both the coast and the mountains.

Comparing the Islands: Which Island is Best for You?

Each island offers something different, so here’s a quick breakdown:

Oahu

• Best for: People who want city life and job opportunities
• Vibe: Fast-paced and urban
• Weather: Warm and sunny, with some rain in the mountains
• Cost of Living: High, especially in Honolulu
• Pro Tip: Waikiki is touristy, but the North Shore offers a more laid-back vibe.

Maui

• Best for: A balance of luxury, relaxation, and outdoor adventure
• Vibe: Upscale, yet laid-back
• Weather: Sunny on the west side, rainy in the east
• Cost of Living: High, with many second homes and vacation rentals
• Pro Tip: The Kihei and Wailea areas are ideal for sun lovers, while Haiku and Hana are lush and peaceful.

Kauai

• Best for: Nature lovers and those who want a slower pace of life
• Vibe: Quiet and rural
• Weather: Rainy and lush in the north, sunny in the south
• Cost of Living: Moderate
• Pro Tip: The south side (Poipu) is sunnier, while the north side (Princeville) is perfect for those who love greenery.

Location	Weather	Cost of Living	Vibe
Kona (West)	Sunny and dry	High	Tourist-friendly, lively
Hilo (East)	Rainy and cool	Lower	Quiet, nature-focused
Oahu	Warm and urban	Very High	Fast-paced, urban
Kauai	Lush and rainy	Moderate	Peaceful, secluded

FAQs: Finding the Best Side of Hawaii to Live

1. Which side of the Big Island has the best weather?

• Kona (west side) has the best weather if you love sunshine and dry conditions. If you prefer cooler temperatures and greenery, the Hilo side might be more your speed.

2. What is the most affordable place to live in Hawaii?

• Hilo on the Big Island is one of the most affordable areas, with lower housing costs compared to places like Honolulu or Maui.

3. Which island is the best for outdoor activities?

• If you love surfing, Oahu is your best bet. For hiking and nature lovers, Kauai is unbeatable. The Big Island offers a mix of snorkeling, diving, and hiking, with access to both beaches and volcanoes.

4. Is it expensive to live in Kona?

• Yes, Kailua-Kona can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for oceanfront property. However, it’s still more affordable than places like Maui or Oahu.

5. How does the lifestyle differ between Kona and Hilo?

• Kona offers more nightlife, dining, and tourist attractions, while Hilo has a quieter, more local vibe with an emphasis on nature and the arts.

Pros and Cons of Different Sides in Hawaii

Kona (West Side) Pros:

• Sunny weather year-round
• Great beaches and snorkeling
• More job opportunities in tourism and hospitality
• Vibrant dining and shopping options

Kona (West Side) Cons:

• Higher cost of living
• Tourist activity can get overwhelming
• Limited greenery and rain

Hilo (East Side) Pros:

• More affordable housing
• Lush landscapes with waterfalls and forests
• Strong local community vibe

Hilo (East Side) Cons:

• Lots of rain
• Fewer job opportunities
• Less nightlife and dining options

Conclusion: Which Side of Hawaii is Best for You?

In the end, it all depends on what you’re looking for. Kona’s west side offers the sunshine, beaches, and nightlife that many people imagine when they think of Hawaii. On the other hand, Hilo’s east side provides a lush, affordable, and quieter lifestyle that’s ideal if you love nature and don’t mind a bit of rain.

Each island and area has something special to offer. If you’re someone who thrives in an urban environment, Oahu might be the best fit. If you want a mix of adventure and relaxation, Maui could be perfect. And if you love peace, quiet, and a connection to nature, Kauai or Hilo may be right up your alley.

Whatever your choice, Hawaii offers an incredible lifestyle no matter where you decide to live. You just need to find the side that matches your vibe.

Aloha! 🌴

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