Hawaii vs Montana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Hawaii ranks #17 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 110), has a 6.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
- Residential electricity price is 68% lower in Montana (12.98¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 53% lower in Montana ($1,426 vs. $3,020 in Hawaii).
- Violent crime rate is 51% lower in Hawaii (205 vs. 419 in Montana).
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.2 pts | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | 75.0#7 of 50 · A | -10.2 pts | — | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 110#49 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +15.4 pts+16% | 100 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$47,583 · US -$11,758 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$47,583 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$361,594 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $833,340#50 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$361,594+77% | $368,697 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.05 pts · US 8.74% | 13.92%#50 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +6.05 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-51%) · US 328 | 205#7 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -214-51% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap +$25,405 (+34%) · US $80,903 | $100,745#4 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$25,405+34% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86%#29 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 80.0#1 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,693 · US -33 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -5,693 | -33 | MT |
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 Hawaii or Montana better to live in?
Montana scores higher overall: 75 to 64.8 out of 100, #7 of 50 against #17. Hawaii leads 3 of 11 categories, Montana leads 8, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +34.8 | 15% | 86.3#1 · A+ | 51.5#17 · B+ | +34.8 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap +14.8 | 12% | 75.7#21 · B | 60.9#36 · C | +14.8 pts | HI |
| Health12% of scoregap +29.7 | 12% | 88.6#2 · A+ | 58.9#22 · B | +29.7 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap -8 | 12% | 59.1#28 · C+ | 67.1#12 · B+ | -8 pts | MT |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -64.5 | 10% | 4.4#50 · F | 68.9#26 · B | -64.5 pts | MT |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -23 | 8% | 36.5#48 · D | 59.5#24 · B | -23 pts | MT |
| Growth7% of scoregap -28.3 | 7% | 25.3#40 · C | 53.6#6 · A | -28.3 pts | MT |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -4.3 | 7% | 54.4#16 · B+ | 58.7#7 · A | -4.3 pts | MT |
| Livability7% of scoregap -27.4 | 7% | 34.5#20 · B | 61.9#1 · A+ | -27.4 pts | MT |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -35.4 | 6% | 36.3#18 · B+ | 71.7#3 · A+ | -35.4 pts | MT |
| Environment4% of scoregap -6 | 4% | 56.9#8 · A | 62.9#6 · A | -6 pts | MT |
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 Hawaii cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper: cost of living index 94.6 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $47,583 more a year in Montana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 110#49 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +15.4 pts+16% | 100 | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +15.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 111.6#50 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +15.6 pts+16% | 100 | MT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +27.61¢ (+213%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +27.61¢+213% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$43.39 (+483%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$43.39+483% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.40 (+42%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$1.40+42% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,620 (+62%) · US $15,633 | $25,096#48 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$9,620+62% | $15,633 | MT |
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 | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$16,721 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$26,443costs $48,557 | -$16,721 | MT |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$22,769 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$17,000costs $58,000 | -$22,769 | MT |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$47,583 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | -$21,152costs $96,152 | -$47,583 | MT |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$19,580 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$30,682costs $44,318 | -$19,580 | MT |
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 | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$20,464 | $52,816 | $32,352 | +$20,464 | MT |
| ChildcareGap +$19,240 | $50,192 | $30,952 | +$19,240 | MT |
| UtilitiesGap +$739 | $5,280 | $4,541 | +$739 | MT |
| GroceriesGap +$1,758 | $12,570 | $10,812 | +$1,758 | MT |
| TransportationGap +$4,400 | $14,866 | $10,466 | +$4,400 | MT |
| State and local taxesGap +$982 | $8,011 | $7,029 | +$982 | MT |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.87% vs 13.92%. Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.05 pts · US 8.74% | 13.92%#50 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +6.05 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.1 pts · US 5.46% | 11%#46 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 5.46% | MT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.27%#1 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.5 pts · US 6.66% | 4.5%#6 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 6.66% | MT |
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 Hawaii or Montana?
Homes cost 77% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $833,340 in Hawaii vs $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $202,402 of income in Hawaii and $119,850 in Montana; the median household earns $100,745 and $75,340.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$361,594 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $833,340#50 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$361,594+77% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1.1%#35 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,594 (+112%) · US $1,948 | $3,020#48 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$1,594+112% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$82,552 (+69%) · US $100,006 | $202,402#50 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$82,552+69% | $100,006 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2x (+32%) · US 4.6x | 8.3x#50 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | +2x+32% | 4.6x | MT |
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.
| HI | MT | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $4,288 | $2,427 |
| Income needed vs. median | +101% | +59% |
| Five-year change | +16.1% | +25% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Urban Honolulu | Billings |
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 Hawaii or Montana?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $75,340, with unemployment at 2.4% in Hawaii and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Hawaii's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$25,405 (+34%) · US $80,903 | $100,745#4 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$25,405+34% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 2.4%#2 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,150 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $62,039#25 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$8,150+15% | $64,333 | HI |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | -0.78 pts | +0.51% | MT |
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 | HI | MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | $74,941$67,447 in Billings | HI |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | $199,317$179,385 in Billings | HI |
| Lawyers | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | $128,043$115,239 in Billings | HI |
| Software Developers | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | $116,186$104,567 in Billings | HI |
| General & Operations Managers | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | $90,166$81,149 in Billings | HI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | $92,892$83,603 in Billings | HI |
| Civil Engineers | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | $84,653$76,188 in Billings | HI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | $63,372$57,035 in Billings | HI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | $58,723$52,851 in Billings | HI |
| Electricians | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | $57,082$51,374 in Billings | HI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | $74,913$67,422 in Billings | HI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | $47,868$43,081 in Billings | HI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | $31,814$28,633 in Billings | HI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | $51,552$46,397 in Billings | HI |
| Construction Laborers | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | $40,154$36,139 in Billings | HI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | $68,716$61,844 in Billings | HI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | $60,323$54,291 in Billings | HI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | $50,682$45,614 in Billings | HI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | $49,906$44,915 in Billings | HI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | $44,668$40,201 in Billings | 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 Hawaii safer than Montana?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,604 and 1,449 per 100,000.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-51%) · US 328 | 205#7 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -214-51% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +155 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,604#32 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +155+11% | 1,535 | MT |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- No city crime data
- Whitefish, MT176 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana scores higher for education (#12 of 50 vs #28), with high school graduation rates of 86% and 85.8%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #22); life expectancy is 80.0 years in Hawaii and 77.3 in Montana.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 270#30 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 257#26 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86%#29 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 80.0#1 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap -4 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#3 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | -4 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.3 pts · US 7.6% | 3.5%#2 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 24#1 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | -3 pts-11% | 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).
- Honolulu, HIeducation score 86
- Whitefish, MTeducation score 92
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: Hawaii #28, Montana #12. Health: Hawaii #2, Montana #22.
Are more people moving from Hawaii to Montana, or from Montana to Hawaii?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 897 people (±903) moving from Hawaii to Montana and 194 (±178) 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 | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,636 (+17%) | 25,026#39 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +3,636+17% | HI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,329 (+51%) | 27,623#13 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +9,329+51% | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,693 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -5,693 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -4.5 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,027 (-1%) | $78,083#27 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | -$1,027-1% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,699 (+9%) | $70,863#31 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$5,699+9% | HI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.8 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -11.8 | MT |
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, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +17 places | #27score 63 | #10score 79.4 | +17 places | MT |
| RetireesGap +29 places | #39score 54.4 | #10score 76.8 | +29 places | MT |
| Remote WorkersGap +41 places | #45score 40.3 | #4score 76.6 | +41 places | MT |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +20 places | #25score 53.7 | #5score 70.2 | +20 places | MT |
| Small BusinessGap +24 places | #34score 48.7 | #10score 71 | +24 places | MT |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +12 places | #14score 56.7 | #2score 81.7 | +12 places | MT |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesMontana (#10 vs #27)
- RetireesMontana (#10 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersMontana (#4 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsMontana (#5 vs #25)
- Small BusinessMontana (#10 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMontana (#2 vs #14)
Which cities stand out in Hawaii and Montana?
Hawaii has 20 tracked cities and Montana has 20; the largest are Honolulu and Billings. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Honolulu345,482 people | Billings119,434 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | East Honoluluscore 68.5 | Bozemanscore 64.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | — | Whitefish176 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Hilocost index 106.4 | Buttecost index 91.6 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 | Bozemanwalkability 15.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 | Bozemancounty median AQI 11 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Honolulu86% graduation rate | Whitefish92% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 | Belgrademedian income $97,328 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Honolulu-0.2% growth | Sidney+2.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Hawaii and Montana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Hawaii carries AA+ credit rating and Montana AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#21 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.2 (+8%) · US 29.6 | 54.0#47 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | +4.2+8% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap -14.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#15 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | -14.8 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +7.2 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.3%#6 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#41 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93%#21 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 92.67% | HI |
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 | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#23 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 5.8%#43 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 59%#45 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,830 (+139%) · US $3,506 | $6,580#45 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$3,830+139% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +4.66% | MT |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Hawaii AA+, Montana 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).
Hawaii vs Montana: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Hawaii is ahead on 12 of 51, Montana on 32, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | HawaiiHI | MontanaMT | GapHI−MT | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +288,126 (+25%) · US 6.8 million | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | 1.1 million#43 of 50 | +288,126+25% | 6.8 million | HI |
| Median household incomeGap +$25,405 (+34%) · US $80,903 | $100,745#4 of 50 | $75,340#35 of 50 | +$25,405+34% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 2.4%#2 of 50 | 3.3%#9 of 50 | -0.9 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap -0.78 pts · US +0.51% | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.63%#16 of 50 | -0.78 pts | +0.51% | MT |
| GDP per capitaGap +$8,150 (+15%) · US $64,333 | $62,039#25 of 50 | $53,889#42 of 50 | +$8,150+15% | $64,333 | HI |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +2%#21 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | MT |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -214 (-51%) · US 328 | 205#7 of 50 | 419#42 of 50 | -214-51% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +155 (+11%) · US 1,535 | 1,604#32 of 50 | 1,449#26 of 50 | +155+11% | 1,535 | MT |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 86%#29 of 50 | 85.8%#30 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 239#15 of 50 | 239#20 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -9 · US 273 | 270#30 of 50 | 279#10 of 50 | -9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 216#16 of 50 | 217#12 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 257#26 of 50 | 261#11 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 80.0#1 of 50 | 77.3#25 of 50 | +2.7 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap -4 pts · US 34.03% | 27%#3 of 50 | 31%#10 of 50 | -4 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.3 pts · US 7.6% | 3.5%#2 of 50 | 8.8%#36 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$361,594 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $833,340#50 of 50 | $471,746#38 of 50 | +$361,594+77% | $368,697 | MT |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.9 pts · US +1.2% | +1.1%#35 of 50 | +2%#28 of 50 | -0.9 pts | +1.2% | MT |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,594 (+112%) · US $1,948 | $3,020#48 of 50 | $1,426#10 of 50 | +$1,594+112% | $1,948 | MT |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$82,552 (+69%) · US $100,006 | $202,402#50 of 50 | $119,850#38 of 50 | +$82,552+69% | $100,006 | MT |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.4 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 110#49 of 50 | 94.6#22 of 50 | +15.4 pts+16% | 100 | MT |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2x (+32%) · US 4.6x | 8.3x#50 of 50 | 6.3x#47 of 50 | +2x+32% | 4.6x | MT |
| Residential electricity priceGap +27.61¢ (+213%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | 12.98¢/kWh#6 of 50 | +27.61¢+213% | 17.84¢/kWh | MT |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$43.39 (+483%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | $8.99/Mcf#2 of 50 | +$43.39+483% | $15.83/Mcf | MT |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.40 (+42%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | $3.33/gal#35 of 50 | +$1.40+42% | $3.32/gal | MT |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +15.6 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 111.6#50 of 50 | 96#14 of 50 | +15.6 pts+16% | 100 | MT |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,620 (+62%) · US $15,633 | $25,096#48 of 50 | $15,476#27 of 50 | +$9,620+62% | $15,633 | MT |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +6.05 pts · US 8.74% | 13.92%#50 of 50 | 7.87%#13 of 50 | +6.05 pts | 8.74% | MT |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.1 pts · US 5.46% | 11%#46 of 50 | 5.9%#30 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 5.46% | MT |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.52 pts · US 1.02% | 0.27%#1 of 50 | 0.79%#21 of 50 | -0.52 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +4.5 pts · US 6.66% | 4.5%#6 of 50 | 0%#2 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 6.66% | MT |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#23 of 50 | 95#20 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.5 pts · US 12.39% | 5.8%#43 of 50 | 10.3%#24 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.39% | MT |
| Pension funded ratioGap -14 pts · US 74.3% | 59%#45 of 50 | 73%#27 of 50 | -14 pts | 74.3% | MT |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,830 (+139%) · US $3,506 | $6,580#45 of 50 | $2,750#23 of 50 | +$3,830+139% | $3,506 | MT |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -3.1 pts · US +4.66% | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +5.2%#21 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +4.66% | MT |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-11%) · US 38.8 | 24#1 of 50 | 27#3 of 50 | -3 pts-11% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -23 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#21 of 50 | 53%#9 of 50 | -23 pts | 29.34% | MT |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.2 (+8%) · US 29.6 | 54.0#47 of 50 | 49.8#44 of 50 | +4.2+8% | 29.6 | MT |
| Public land shareGap -14.8 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#15 of 50 | 29.9%#11 of 50 | -14.8 pts | 17.16% | MT |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.2 min · US 25.2 min | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | 19.5 min#3 of 50 | +7.2 min | 25.2 min | MT |
| Commuters using public transitGap +3.5 pts · US 2.29% | 4.3%#6 of 50 | 0.8%#30 of 50 | +3.5 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap -2.8 pts · US 12.28% | 8.9%#41 of 50 | 11.7%#30 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 12.28% | MT |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93%#21 of 50 | 91.5%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 92.67% | HI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +3,636 (+17%) · US 78,682 | 25,026#39 of 50 | 21,390#41 of 50 | +3,636+17% | 78,682 | HI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,329 (+51%) · US 78,715 | 27,623#13 of 50 | 18,294#9 of 50 | +9,329+51% | 78,715 | MT |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -5,693 · US -33 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +3,096#18 of 50 | -5,693 | -33 | MT |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.5 · US +0.4 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +2.7#6 of 50 | -4.5 | +0.4 | MT |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,027 (-1%) · US $77,690 | $78,083#27 of 50 | $79,110#25 of 50 | -$1,027-1% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,699 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $70,863#31 of 50 | $65,164#40 of 50 | +$5,699+9% | $77,024 | HI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.8 · US +1.1 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +5.6#6 of 50 | -11.8 | +1.1 | MT |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$47,583 · US -$11,758 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | -$21,152#33 of 50 | -$47,583 | -$11,758 | MT |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$16,721 · US +$31,418 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$26,443#38 of 50 | -$16,721 | +$31,418 | MT |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$19,580 · US +$35,970 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$30,682#37 of 50 | -$19,580 | +$35,970 | MT |
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 Hawaii and Montana numbers say when read together.
Montana ranks higher overall
Montana leads 8 of the 11 categories to Hawaii's 3, with 0 even; Hawaii is ahead on economy and health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Hawaii is ahead on 12 and Montana on 32.
Montana is cheaper day to day
Montana's cost of living index is 94.6 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $833,340 in Hawaii and $471,746 in Montana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$68,735 a year after typical costs in Hawaii and -$21,152 in Montana.
Montana takes a smaller share in taxes
Hawaii collects 13.92% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax); Montana collects 7.87% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Hawaii pays more and is safer
Median household income is $100,745 in Hawaii and $75,340 in Montana, with unemployment at 2.4% and 3.3%. Violent crime runs 205 per 100,000 residents in Hawaii and 419 in Montana.
Moves between the two run about even
897 people moved from Hawaii to Montana and 194 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Montana fits families and retirees better
For families, Hawaii ranks #27 of 50 and Montana #10; for retirees, Hawaii ranks #39 and Montana #10.
Hawaii vs Montana: frequently asked questions
Is Hawaii or Montana better to live in?
Hawaii ranks #17 of 50 overall and Montana #7 as of the latest release. Montana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 94.6 vs 110), has a 6.1-point lower tax burden, and has a 51% higher violent crime rate. Montana scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Hawaii cheaper than Montana?
Montana is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 94.6 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$68,735 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Hawaii, and -$21,152 in Montana. The typical home value is $833,340 in Hawaii and $471,746 in Montana.
Which has lower taxes, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana has the lower tax burden: 7.87% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Hawaii's top income tax rate is 11%, its effective property tax rate 0.27% and its combined sales tax 4.5%; Montana's are 5.9%, 0.79% and 0%.
Is Hawaii safer than Montana?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 419 in Montana, per the FBI. Hawaii ranks #7 of 50 for violent crime and Montana #42. Property crime is 1,604 per 100,000 in Hawaii and 1,449 in Montana.
Are homes more expensive in Hawaii or Montana?
Homes are 77% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $833,340 in Hawaii and $471,746 in Montana. Buying the typical home takes about $202,402 of household income in Hawaii and $119,850 in Montana, against median incomes of $100,745 and $75,340.
Do people earn more in Hawaii or Montana?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $75,340 in Montana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 2.4% in Hawaii and 3.3% in Montana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Hawaii's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Montana's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Hawaii to Montana or from Montana to Hawaii?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 897 people (±903) moving from Hawaii to Montana and 194 (±178) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for retirees: #10 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax; Montana has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$11,102 left after typical costs in Hawaii and +$30,682 in Montana.
Which is better for families, Hawaii or Montana?
Montana is the better fit for families: #10 of 50 on the families index vs #27 for Hawaii. Center-based infant care costs $25,096 a year in Hawaii and $15,476 in Montana. High school graduation rates are 86% and 85.8%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$68,735 after typical costs in Hawaii and -$21,152 in Montana.
Is Montana better than Hawaii?
Yes: Montana ranks higher than Hawaii overall, #7 of 50 vs #17, with a composite score of 75 to 64.8. Montana leads 8 of 11 categories and Hawaii leads 3, including economy and health. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Hawaii vs Montana.