The Ups and Downs of Life in Hawaii 🌺
We’re gonna talk about the pros and cons of living in Hawaii—why you should move here, why you shouldn’t, and some things to watch out for before you make the leap. Plus, a few things that might actually incentivate you to come and live in Kailua-Kona. So, tune in as I give you some pros and cons.
Pros of Living in Kailua-Kona
Year-Round Sunshine:
One of the biggest perks of living here is the amazing weather. It’s sunny nearly every day—about 270 days of sunshine each year! If you love nature, being outdoors, and basking in warm weather, this is the place for you.
Laid-Back Lifestyle:
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life, Kailua-Kona is perfect. Life here moves at a slower pace, allowing you to unwind and enjoy nature. There’s not much that can stress you out here, which is a huge plus.
Abundant Wildlife:
Kailua-Kona is a haven for wildlife lovers. From swimming with dolphins at the Kailua Pier to watching whales breach during winter, the wildlife here is incredible. You can even spot manta rays, both day and night, at spots like the Royal Kona Resort. It’s one of the things that attracted me to live here.
Minimal Construction:
Unlike big cities, Kailua-Kona doesn’t have a lot of large-scale construction. It feels raw and green, and every time I fly back from the mainland, I really enjoy that sense of returning to nature. The environment here is something special.
Outdoor Activities:
For those who love the outdoors, Kailua-Kona offers plenty to do—golfing, cycling, swimming, and more. Whether you’re up for a day at the beach or a fancy dinner at a resort, there’s a nice balance of activities.
Cons of Living in Kailua-Kona
Healthcare Limitations:
If you have significant health issues or need specialized care, living on the Big Island can be challenging. There aren’t many specialists, and the waiting lists can be insanely long. If you rely on regular medical care, you might want to think twice or have a backup plan, like dual health insurance that covers you both in Hawaii and on the mainland.
Slow Pace:
While the slow pace is a pro for some, it can be a con if you enjoy a bustling lifestyle with frequent events like concerts, festivals, and races. In Kailua-Kona, events are few and far between, usually spaced out every few months.
Traffic During Events:
For most of the year, traffic is light, but when there’s a big event like the Ironman, the roads can get congested, especially along Ali’i Drive and Queen K Highway. For a few days, it can feel like the whole town is at a standstill.
High Cost of Living:
Living in Kailua-Kona is expensive. The average home price is around $1.27 million, and condos start at $500,000. Everything else—gas, groceries, and utilities—is pricey too. Milk, for example, has gone up from $4.50 to $5.70 per gallon. If you’re from California, you might find it comparable, but in some cases, Hawaii can be even more expensive.
Education:
The local schools in Kailua-Kona are okay, but they don’t offer the same opportunities as schools on the mainland. There are private schools available, like Parker School in Waimea, which is excellent but costs around $27,000 to $28,000 per year per child. Many families opt for homeschooling, supplemented by after-school activities like soccer, swimming, and surfing.