Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Among the most expensive US cities, with island living that imports nearly everything.
Cost of living index (US avg = 100): 170
Median 2BR rent: $2,800/mo
Housing: 195 vs 100
Groceries: 145 vs 100
Utilities: 130 vs 100
Transportation: 112 vs 100
Healthcare: 106 vs 100
Honolulu offers year-round paradise, but island geography means high housing, groceries, and utilities since so much is shipped in. It is one of the costliest places to live in the country.