Florida vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Residential electricity price is 62% lower in Florida (15.24¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Typical home value is 55% lower in Florida ($375,470 vs. $833,340 in Hawaii).
- Total tax burden is 53% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 13.92% in Hawaii).
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -4.9 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | -4.9 pts | — | HI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$58,249 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$58,249 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$457,870 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$457,870-55% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.43 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -7.43 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap -$23,010 (-23%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$23,010-23% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.1 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,946 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +57,946 | -33 | FL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Florida or Hawaii better to live in?
Hawaii scores higher overall: 64.8 to 59.9 out of 100, #17 of 50 against #21. Florida leads 3 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -41.3 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 86.3#1 · A+ | -41.3 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -2.6 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 75.7#21 · B | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -28.1 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 88.6#2 · A+ | -28.1 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap +2 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 59.1#28 · C+ | +2 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +57.5 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 4.4#50 · F | +57.5 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +33.7 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 36.5#48 · D | +33.7 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +19.6 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 25.3#40 · C | +19.6 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.8 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 54.4#16 · B+ | -10.8 pts | HI |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.6 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 34.5#20 · B | -7.6 pts | HI |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -8.5 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 36.3#18 · B+ | -8.5 pts | HI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -22.9 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 56.9#8 · A | -22.9 pts | HI |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Hawaii?
Florida is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $58,249 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -13.5 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -13.5 pts-12% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.35¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.35¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$26.90 (-51%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$26.90-51% | $15.83/Mcf | FL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.65 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.65-35% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10,866 (-43%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$10,866-43% | $15,633 | FL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$23,662 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$23,662 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$29,828 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$29,828 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$58,249 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$58,249 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$25,897 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$25,897 | FL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$26,954 | $25,862 | $52,816 | -$26,954 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$21,732 | $28,460 | $50,192 | -$21,732 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$317 | $4,963 | $5,280 | -$317 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$1,521 | $11,049 | $12,570 | -$1,521 | FL |
| TransportationGap -$5,186 | $9,680 | $14,866 | -$5,186 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,539 | $5,472 | $8,011 | -$2,539 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 13.92%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.43 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -7.43 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.55 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +2.48 pts | 6.66% | HI |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Hawaii?
Homes cost 122% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $77,735 and $100,745.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$457,870 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$457,870-55% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$354 (-12%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$354-12% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$94,122 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$94,122-47% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -3.5x (-42%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -3.5x-42% | 4.6x | FL |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| FL | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Miami | Urban Honolulu |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Florida or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 8.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$23,010 (-23%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$23,010-23% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,384 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$1,384-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +2.1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1 pts | +0.51% | FL |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | FL | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | HI |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | HI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | HI |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | HI |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | HI |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | HI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | Even |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | HI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | HI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | FL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | FL |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | Even |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,604 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -202 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | -202-13% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida and Hawaii are close on education (#23 and #28 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap -2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.1 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+71%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +17 pts+71% | 38.8 | HI |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Honolulu, HIeducation score 86
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, Hawaii #28. Health: Florida #19, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Florida to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Florida?
1,409 households moved from Florida to Hawaii and 1,553 moved from Hawaii to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 144 households for Florida. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $66,121; movers to Florida reported $77,659. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,002 people (±1,825) moving from Florida to Hawaii and 3,966 (±2,243) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +329,086 (+1,315%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +329,086+1,315% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +271,140 (+982%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +271,140+982% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,946 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +57,946 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +4.2 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$44,456 (+57%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$44,456+57% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,271 (+7%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$5,271+7% | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.2 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +7.2 | FL |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, and small business; Hawaii is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -3 places | #24score 65.4 | #27score 63 | -3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -21 places | #18score 66.2 | #39score 54.4 | -21 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -18 places | #27score 51.6 | #45score 40.3 | -18 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #24score 53.9 | #25score 53.7 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -15 places | #19score 62.4 | #34score 48.7 | -15 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +12 places | #26score 44.3 | #14score 56.7 | +12 places | HI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#24 vs #27)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#24 vs #25)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsHawaii (#14 vs #26)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Hawaii?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | HI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -31.5 (-58%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -31.5-58% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +11.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +11.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +2.2 min | 25.2 min | HI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -3 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | FL |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,620 (-70%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$4,620-70% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Hawaii AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 33 of 51, Hawaii on 13, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | HawaiiHI | GapFL−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +22,029,698 (+1,538%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +22,029,698+1,538% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$23,010 (-23%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$23,010-23% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.5 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +1 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,384 (-2%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$1,384-2% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.1 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +2.1 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +70 (+34%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +70+34% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -202 (-13%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | -202-13% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | +2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.1 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.6 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +7.4 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +7.4 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$457,870 (-55%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$457,870-55% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.6 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$354 (-12%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$354-12% | $1,948 | FL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$94,122 (-47%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$94,122-47% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -3.5x (-42%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -3.5x-42% | 4.6x | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.35¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.35¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$26.90 (-51%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$26.90-51% | $15.83/Mcf | FL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$1.65 (-35%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$1.65-35% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -13.5 pts (-12%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -13.5 pts-12% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$10,866 (-43%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$10,866-43% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -7.43 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -7.43 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.55 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.48 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +2.48 pts | 6.66% | HI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | FL |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +5.9 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +5.9 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$4,620 (-70%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$4,620-70% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +17 pts (+71%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +17 pts+71% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -20 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | -20 pts | 29.34% | HI |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -31.5 (-58%) · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -31.5-58% | 29.6 | FL |
| Public land shareGap +11.2 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +11.2 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.2 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +2.2 min | 25.2 min | HI |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -3 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.6 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 12.28% | FL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.3 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 92.67% | FL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +329,086 (+1,315%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +329,086+1,315% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +271,140 (+982%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +271,140+982% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +57,946 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +57,946 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.2 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +4.2 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$44,456 (+57%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$44,456+57% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,271 (+7%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$5,271+7% | $77,024 | FL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.2 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +7.2 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$58,249 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$58,249 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$23,662 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$23,662 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$25,897 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$25,897 | +$35,970 | FL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Florida and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Hawaii ranks higher overall
Hawaii leads 6 of the 11 categories to Florida's 3, with 2 even; Florida is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 33 and Hawaii on 13.
Florida is cheaper day to day
Florida's cost of living index is 103.4 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $375,470 in Florida and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Hawaii collects 13.92% (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax).
Hawaii pays more and is safer
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
4,002 people moved from Florida to Hawaii and 3,966 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Florida is the better fit for retirees
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Hawaii #39.
Florida vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Hawaii better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Florida is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 25% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Hawaii?
Florida is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 103.4 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Florida safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 275 in Florida, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,604 in Hawaii. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Hawaii?
Homes are 122% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $77,735 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Florida or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 8, with 10 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Florida?
1,409 households moved from Florida to Hawaii and 1,553 moved from Hawaii to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 144 households for Florida. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $66,121; movers to Florida reported $77,659. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,002 people (±1,825) moving from Florida to Hawaii and 3,966 (±2,243) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Florida or Hawaii?
Florida and Hawaii are close for families: #24 and #27 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii better than Florida?
Yes: Hawaii ranks higher than Florida overall, #17 of 50 vs #21, with a composite score of 64.8 to 59.9. Hawaii leads 6 of 11 categories and Florida leads 3, including affordability and fiscal health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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