What to Keep in Mind When Moving from Los Angeles to Honolulu

Social and Commuter Differences

Planning to move from Los Angeles to Honolulu, you will find yourself in a much different world. Cars, as you'll see, will play a far less central role in your daily commute in Honolulu. This move may not offer the relief in traffic congestion you might expect, given that Honolulu is among the most traffic-congested cities in the U.S. So, understanding the new city's characteristics is key.

Real Estate and Buying Decisions

When it comes to real estate, you need to know the differences between leasehold and fee simple ownership in Hawaii. Leasehold properties come with a predetermined end date, typically 75 or 99 years, while fee simple ownership results in full ownership of the property. This distinction is crucial when deciding whether to buy or rent. Understanding these terms will help you make a more informed decision. Also, if you're looking for discounts, familiarize yourself with kamaaina discounts. These discounts are available to residents who are considered local or have lived in Hawaii for a certain period.

Adapting to Hawaiian Lifestyle

Having moved from Los Angeles myself, I can attest that you need to prepare for a drastically different lifestyle. Cars will require more maintenance due to the humid environment. It's wise not to bring an expensive car to Hawaii, as we typically go from used car to used car. If your car breaks down, you'll only be an hour away from home, making monthly rust payments unnecessary. Electronics, especially TVs, microwaves, and computers, often only last about three years, so always get a service policy to offset the high replacement costs. Buy a home that can benefit from the natural breezes rather than relying on air conditioning, which is expensive. Solar power is a viable and cheaper alternative.

Taxes and Expenses

Taxes in Hawaii are higher than in California, with a tax on every exchange of value rather than just sales to the end consumer. This means that farmers, distributors, retailers, and consumers all pay taxes, which are passed down the supply chain to the final buyer. This can significantly affect your wallet. Plan your regular trips to California to see friends and family through airline loyalty programs and travel points. Finding a place to live near your workplace is crucial, as traffic in Hawaii is even worse than in Los Angeles. My daily commute is made more enjoyable by walking to work and avoiding the congested highways.

Living in Honolulu

To adapt to life in Honolulu, you may need to lower your standard of living. Here, everyone is family, and people get along well. My kids love the relaxed atmosphere; they don't need "the right" clothes for school, and my boys often go shoeless. Be aware that petty theft is common, especially from drug addicts, and keep valuables secure to avoid loss. The local culture emphasizes modesty regarding wealth. Be prepared to see families living in small houses and using alternative means of food acquisition. Most importantly, maintain a positive attitude and respect for the locals, who are generally happy and willing to help others.

Local Community

Respect for locals is key. While they may appear tough or rough, they are generally good and kind people who will help anyone in need. You are a local only if your grandparents lived on the island. When newborns are born in Honolulu, they are not immediately considered local unless their families have a longer history in the area. Engage with the community, and you'll find it a rewarding experience.