Hawaii, long celebrated as paradise on earth, is facing an exodus. Despite its beaches and unique culture, more residents are packing up and leaving the islands, driven by economic realities and the search for a better quality of life. Where are they going—and why?
Why Are People Leaving Hawaii?
The reasons behind Hawaii’s outmigration are clear and persistent. The state’s sky-high cost of living, unaffordable housing, limited job opportunities, and high taxes have made it increasingly difficult for many families to stay.
According to a recent report, 85% of families considering leaving cited the high cost of living, while 73% specifically pointed to the price of housing as the main driver. These pressures have hit working families especially hard, forcing many to look elsewhere for stability and opportunity.
Native Hawaiians are particularly affected, with many feeling “pushed out of paradise” by rising prices, rampant development, and an influx of mainlanders and tourists that have driven up costs. Some families are even separated by the move, with parents leaving first to secure jobs and housing on the mainland.
Where Are Hawaiians Moving?
While Hawaii’s population saw a small rebound in 2024, the longer-term trend has been a net loss, with thousands relocating each year. The top destinations for those leaving Hawaii are overwhelmingly on the U.S. mainland, with a clear preference for states offering lower living costs, more affordable homes, and established Hawaiian communities.
Top States Hawaiians Are Moving To:
| Rank | State | Number of Movers (2022) | % of Hawaii Outmigrants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | 10,747 | 15.98% |
| 2 | Washington | 7,392 | 10.99% |
| 3 | Texas | 6,970 | 10.36% |
| 4 | North Carolina | 3,685 | 5.48% |
| 5 | Nevada | 3,380 | 5.03% |
| 6 | Maryland | 3,306 | 4.92% |
| 7 | Florida | 2,858 | 4.25% |
| 8 | Georgia | 2,642 | 3.93% |
| 9 | Oregon | 2,099 | 3.12% |
| 10 | Virginia | 1,852 | 2.75% |
Why These States?
California: Proximity, climate, and large existing Hawaiian communities make it a top choice. Many families find it easier to maintain cultural ties and visit home.
Washington and Oregon: The Pacific Northwest offers relatively affordable housing, job opportunities, and a milder climate.
Texas and Nevada: These states are attractive for their lower cost of living, no state income tax (in Texas and Nevada), and growing economies. Las Vegas, in particular, has become known as the “Ninth Island” due to its thriving Hawaiian community.
Other States: States like North Carolina, Maryland, and Florida appeal for their job markets, military presence, and established support networks for new arrivals.
The Human Impact: Stories of Leaving Paradise
The decision to leave Hawaii is rarely easy. For many, it means leaving behind family, culture, and a deep sense of home. Some, like Doreen Hall, found a supportive Hawaiian community in Las Vegas, where the cost of living allows for homeownership and a more comfortable lifestyle. Others hope to one day return, holding onto the hope that Hawaii will welcome them back with open arms.
Families are often torn apart by the move, with some members staying behind to finish school or care for relatives. The cultural loss is deeply felt, as parents worry their children may lose touch with Hawaiian values and language.
Is the Tide Turning?
Recent census data suggests Hawaii’s population may have stabilized slightly, with a modest increase in 2024 after years of decline. However, the state’s population is still down compared to 2020, and the underlying issues remain. Unless the cost of living and housing affordability improve, many more may continue to plot their escape from paradise.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s outmigration is a story of economic necessity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of its people. As residents seek new opportunities on the mainland, they carry their culture and traditions with them, building vibrant Hawaiian communities far from the islands. For many, the dream of returning home remains alive—but for now, the search for a better life leads them elsewhere.