Understanding the Cost of Living in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii in 2024
This is one of the most common questions I get from people who are considering moving to Kona or relocating to the Big Island. When you’re trying to figure out what your daily lifestyle will be like and what budget you should have, it’s essential to understand the unique pricing quirks here in Hawaii. Some things are similar to the mainland, but there are a few costs that will leave you thinking, Why is this so expensive?!
Why are Some Things Outrageously Expensive?
The truth is, a lot of goods here are priced higher because of the logistics involved in getting them to the island. Since we’re on an island, many items have to be imported, which drives up the cost. On the flip side, other things, like locally grown produce or bulk items, are surprisingly affordable. It’s all about understanding what to buy and where to get it.
What About Grocery Shopping?
One thing I didn’t cover in detail is shopping at Costco. Costco is a super popular place to shop in Hawaii because the prices are reasonable, and you get large quantities. However, be aware that if you’re buying fresh produce there, they tend to spoil faster because the climate is warmer and more humid. You have to plan your meals carefully to make sure everything gets eaten within the week.
Where I Shopped to Show You Real Prices
Today, I visited various stores, including Safeway, to show you real prices on everyday items like fruits, vegetables, gas, and electricity. I’m also covering prices for things like healthcare services if you don’t have insurance. Just a heads-up—real estate isn’t included in this blog. You probably already have a sense of property prices if you’ve been browsing my website. But just to give you an idea:
- Typical home: Around $1.3 million.
- Typical condo: Around $700,000.
- Condos without short-term vacation rental permits: You can find some in the $500,000 range, usually two bedrooms and two baths.
Health Costs Without Insurance
During my research, I asked vendors for on-the-spot quotes, just to give you a comparison. For example, if you don’t have any insurance coverage, a basic health service visit at a local center is about $150 before taxes. Of course, this is just the base rate. Depending on the type of care and how much you need, the cost could be much higher. And if you have insurance, it would be a completely different scenario.
A Sneak Peek of Grocery Prices
Today, I’m at Safeway, armed with my grocery list. I’ll go through the store and try to show you as many prices as I can—hopefully without getting kicked out! Here are a few quick examples of what you can expect for typical grocery items:
- Milk: Around $6 per gallon.
- Eggs: Roughly $7 for a dozen.
- Fresh fruits like papayas: About $1.50 each.
- Bread: Close to $6 per loaf.
- Single Bell Pepper: Around $3.50 each.
These prices might seem a bit steep if you’re coming from the mainland, but remember, a lot of this is due to transportation costs and local demand.
Utilities and Gas Prices
Gas and electricity are also on the higher side compared to the mainland. For electricity, the average cost is around $0.56 per kilowatt-hour, which is significantly higher than the national average. Gas prices fluctuate, but they tend to hover around $5 per gallon. It’s definitely something to factor into your budget if you plan on driving a lot!
What’s Not Covered
As I mentioned earlier, I’m not diving into real estate in this video because it’s a whole separate topic. But if you’re looking at the Big Island’s real estate market, it’s important to consider the property taxes, maintenance costs, and the cost of insuring homes in high-risk zones like lava zones or oceanfront areas. Property taxes are low in Hawaii County, which is why a lot of people choose to purchase here. Maintenance costs are highly dependent on the property: landscaping, pool, roof age….etc.
I hope this breakdown gives you a clearer picture of what to expect when it comes to living expenses in Kailua-Kona. It’s a beautiful place to live, and while some costs might seem high, there are always ways to adjust and make it work. If you’re planning to move or are curious about life on the Big Island, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate the ins and outs of island life!
Aloha, and I hope this helps you plan your budget and lifestyle as you consider making the move to Kailua-Kona! 🌺
Ready to learn more about living in Kailua-Kona? Contact us today for a free consultation and explore your options for moving to Hawaii.