Oregon vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Oregon ranks #35 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Oregon is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 110), has a 4.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 34% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
- Residential electricity price is 62% lower in Oregon (15.37¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Typical home value is 40% lower in Oregon ($496,113 vs. $833,340 in Hawaii).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 40% lower in Oregon ($1,818 vs. $3,020 in Hawaii).
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -13.9 pts | 50.9#35 of 50 · C | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | -13.9 pts | — | HI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | OR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$26,899 · US -$11,758 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$26,899 | -$11,758 | OR |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$337,227 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$337,227-40% | $368,697 | OR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.86 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -4.86 pts | 8.74% | OR |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +106 (+52%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +106+52% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap -$15,525 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$15,525-15% | $80,903 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,552 · US -33 | -45#27 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +2,552 | -33 | OR |
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 Oregon or Hawaii better to live in?
Hawaii scores higher overall: 64.8 to 50.9 out of 100, #17 of 50 against #35. Oregon leads 6 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -53.4 | 15% | 32.9#40 · C | 86.3#1 · A+ | -53.4 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -16.1 | 12% | 59.6#39 · C | 75.7#21 · B | -16.1 pts | HI |
| Health12% of scoregap -24.8 | 12% | 63.8#14 · B+ | 88.6#2 · A+ | -24.8 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap -23.5 | 12% | 35.6#46 · D | 59.1#28 · C+ | -23.5 pts | HI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +40.7 | 10% | 45.1#44 · D | 4.4#50 · F | +40.7 pts | OR |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +18.9 | 8% | 55.4#34 · C+ | 36.5#48 · D | +18.9 pts | OR |
| Growth7% of scoregap -2.1 | 7% | 23.2#42 · C | 25.3#40 · C | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +11.9 | 7% | 66.3#1 · A+ | 54.4#16 · B+ | +11.9 pts | OR |
| Livability7% of scoregap +13.5 | 7% | 48.0#8 · A | 34.5#20 · B | +13.5 pts | OR |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +17.1 | 6% | 53.4#5 · A+ | 36.3#18 · B+ | +17.1 pts | OR |
| Environment4% of scoregap +7.3 | 4% | 64.2#5 · A+ | 56.9#8 · A | +7.3 pts | OR |
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 Oregon cheaper than Hawaii?
Oregon is cheaper: cost of living index 103.4 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $26,899 more a year in Oregon after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | OR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 105.3#45 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | OR |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.22¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.22¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | OR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$35.67 (-68%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$35.67-68% | $15.83/Mcf | OR |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.67 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.67-14% | $3.32/gal | OR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,322 (-13%) · US $15,633 | $21,774#45 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$3,322-13% | $15,633 | OR |
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 | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$11,230 | +$20,952costs $54,048 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$11,230 | OR |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$15,427 | +$9,658costs $65,342 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$15,427 | OR |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$26,899 | -$41,836costs $116,836 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$26,899 | OR |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$13,008 | +$24,110costs $50,891 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$13,008 | OR |
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 | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$18,446 | $34,370 | $52,816 | -$18,446 | OR |
| ChildcareGap -$6,644 | $43,548 | $50,192 | -$6,644 | OR |
| UtilitiesGap -$317 | $4,963 | $5,280 | -$317 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$710 | $11,860 | $12,570 | -$710 | OR |
| TransportationGap -$2,106 | $12,760 | $14,866 | -$2,106 | OR |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,324 | $9,335 | $8,011 | +$1,324 | HI |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Oregon or Hawaii?
Oregon collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.06% vs 13.92%. Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.86 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -4.86 pts | 8.74% | OR |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.69 pts · US 5.46% | 14.69%#49 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | +3.69 pts | 5.46% | HI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.59 pts · US 1.02% | 0.86%#26 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.59 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -4.5 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#4 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 6.66% | OR |
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 Oregon or Hawaii?
Homes cost 68% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $496,113 in Oregon vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $130,378 of income in Oregon and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $85,220 and $100,745.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$337,227 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$337,227-40% | $368,697 | OR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,202 (-40%) · US $1,948 | $1,818#29 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,202-40% | $1,948 | OR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$72,024 (-36%) · US $100,006 | $130,378#40 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$72,024-36% | $100,006 | OR |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.5x (-30%) · US 4.6x | 5.8x#42 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.5x-30% | 4.6x | OR |
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.
| OR | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,552 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +53% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +7.7% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Portland | 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 Oregon or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income $100,745 vs $85,220, with unemployment at 5.2% in Oregon and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oregon's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 2.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$15,525 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$15,525-15% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.8 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#47 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap -$229 (0%) · US $64,333 | $61,810#26 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$2290% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.34 pts · US +0.51% | +0.19%#39 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.34 pts | +0.51% | Even |
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 | OR | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | $92,574$97,203 in Portland | $100,764$109,833 in Honolulu | HI |
| Software Developers | $137,573$144,452 in Portland | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | OR |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,245$90,557 in Portland | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | OR |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $226,980$238,329 in Portland | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,819$71,210 in Portland | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | OR |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,091$64,146 in Portland | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | OR |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,549$59,376 in Portland | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | OR |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $55,405$58,175 in Portland | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | OR |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,098$35,803 in Portland | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | HI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $68,165$71,573 in Portland | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | OR |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,930$112,276 in Portland | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,221$59,032 in Portland | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | OR |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,439$79,211 in Portland | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | OR |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,073$50,477 in Portland | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | OR |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $72,428$76,049 in Portland | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $105,400$110,670 in Portland | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | Even |
| Lawyers | $146,126$153,432 in Portland | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | Even |
| Electricians | $62,375$65,494 in Portland | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $44,438$46,660 in Portland | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $96,128$100,934 in Portland | $95,783$104,403 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 Oregon safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 311 in Oregon (FBI). Property crime runs 2,118 and 1,604 per 100,000.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +106 (+52%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +106+52% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +514 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 2,118#48 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +514+32% | 1,535 | HI |
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.
- Lake Oswego, OR55 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Oregon or Hawaii?
Hawaii scores higher for education (#28 of 50 vs #46), with high school graduation rates of 81.3% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #14); life expectancy is 77.7 years in Oregon and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 268#40 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#36 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.5 pts · US 34.03% | 33.5%#22 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.2%#9 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+33%) · US 38.8 | 32#5 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +8 pts+33% | 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).
- Lake Oswego, OReducation score 96
- 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: Oregon #46, Hawaii #28. Health: Oregon #14, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Oregon to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Oregon?
782 households moved from Oregon to Hawaii and 999 moved from Hawaii to Oregon in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 217 households for Oregon. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $68,826; movers to Oregon reported $62,642. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 821 people (±426) moving from Oregon to Hawaii and 1,604 (±947) 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 | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +39,360 (+157%) | 64,386#23 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +39,360+157% | OR |
| Households moving outIRSGap +36,808 (+133%) | 64,431#29 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +36,808+133% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,552 | -45#27 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +2,552 | OR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 | -0.0#27 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +1.8 | OR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,301 (-4%) | $74,782#29 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | -$3,301-4% | HI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,261 (+16%) | $82,124#14 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$11,261+16% | OR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.7 | +0.5#30 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +6.7 | OR |
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, Oregon or Hawaii?
Oregon is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, and outdoor enthusiasts; Hawaii is the better fit for families, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +15 places | #42score 53.3 | #27score 63 | +15 places | HI |
| RetireesGap -19 places | #20score 64.3 | #39score 54.4 | -19 places | OR |
| Remote WorkersGap -17 places | #28score 50.9 | #45score 40.3 | -17 places | OR |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +14 places | #39score 43.5 | #25score 53.7 | +14 places | HI |
| Small BusinessGap +8 places | #42score 40.2 | #34score 48.7 | +8 places | HI |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #9score 63.4 | #14score 56.7 | -5 places | OR |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesHawaii (#27 vs #42)
- RetireesOregon (#20 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersOregon (#28 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsHawaii (#25 vs #39)
- Small BusinessHawaii (#34 vs #42)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsOregon (#9 vs #14)
Which cities stand out in Oregon and Hawaii?
Oregon has 20 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Portland and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | OregonOR | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Portland641,165 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethanyscore 75.7 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Lake Oswego55 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Grants Passcost index 97.8 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Portlandwalkability 15.7 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Bendcounty median AQI 23 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Lake Oswego96% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethanymedian income $167,735 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Redmond+2.6% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Oregon and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Oregon carries AA credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#7 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -13.6 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 40.4#39 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -13.6-25% | 29.6 | OR |
| Public land shareGap +37.5 pts · US 17.16% | 52.6%#5 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +37.5 pts | 17.16% | OR |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 2.4%#13 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.2 pts · US 12.28% | 17.1%#2 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 12.28% | OR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#14 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | OR |
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 | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#33 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | HI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 7.2%#41 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | OR |
| Pension funded ratioGap +26 pts · US 74.3% | 85%#11 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +26 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,060 (-47%) · US $3,506 | $3,520#35 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,060-47% | $3,506 | OR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +4.66% | OR |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Oregon AA, 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).
Oregon vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Oregon is ahead on 29 of 51, Hawaii on 15, and 7 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | OregonOR | HawaiiHI | GapOR−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,840,766 (+198%) · US 6.8 million | 4.3 million#27 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +2,840,766+198% | 6.8 million | OR |
| Median household incomeGap -$15,525 (-15%) · US $80,903 | $85,220#16 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$15,525-15% | $80,903 | HI |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.8 pts · US 3.95% | 5.2%#47 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +0.34 pts · US +0.51% | +0.19%#39 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +0.34 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$229 (0%) · US $64,333 | $61,810#26 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | -$2290% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.5%#37 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +106 (+52%) · US 328 | 311#29 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +106+52% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +514 (+32%) · US 1,535 | 2,118#48 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +514+32% | 1,535 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.7 pts · US 85.62% | 81.3%#44 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -11 · US 237 | 229#48 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | -11 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 273 | 268#40 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | -2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -9 · US 214 | 207#47 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | -9 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 255#36 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -2.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.7#21 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -2.3 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +6.5 pts · US 34.03% | 33.5%#22 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +6.5 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.2%#9 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$337,227 (-40%) · US $368,697 | $496,113#40 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$337,227-40% | $368,697 | OR |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.2 pts · US +1.2% | -0.1%#42 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -1.2 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$1,202 (-40%) · US $1,948 | $1,818#29 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$1,202-40% | $1,948 | OR |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$72,024 (-36%) · US $100,006 | $130,378#40 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$72,024-36% | $100,006 | OR |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -6.6 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 103.4#41 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -6.6 pts-6% | 100 | OR |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.5x (-30%) · US 4.6x | 5.8x#42 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.5x-30% | 4.6x | OR |
| Residential electricity priceGap -25.22¢ (-62%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.37¢/kWh#26 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -25.22¢-62% | 17.84¢/kWh | OR |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$35.67 (-68%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.71/Mcf#31 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$35.67-68% | $15.83/Mcf | OR |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.67 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.06/gal#46 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.67-14% | $3.32/gal | OR |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -6.3 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 105.3#45 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -6.3 pts-6% | 100 | OR |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,322 (-13%) · US $15,633 | $21,774#45 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$3,322-13% | $15,633 | OR |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -4.86 pts · US 8.74% | 9.06%#31 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -4.86 pts | 8.74% | OR |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.69 pts · US 5.46% | 14.69%#49 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | +3.69 pts | 5.46% | HI |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.59 pts · US 1.02% | 0.86%#26 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.59 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -4.5 pts · US 6.66% | 0%#4 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 6.66% | OR |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 90#33 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | HI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 7.2%#41 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | OR |
| Pension funded ratioGap +26 pts · US 74.3% | 85%#11 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +26 pts | 74.3% | OR |
| State debt per capitaGap -$3,060 (-47%) · US $3,506 | $3,520#35 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$3,060-47% | $3,506 | OR |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +1.1 pts · US +4.66% | +3.2%#37 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +1.1 pts | +4.66% | OR |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+33%) · US 38.8 | 32#5 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +8 pts+33% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +37 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#7 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +37 pts | 29.34% | OR |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -13.6 (-25%) · US 29.6 | 40.4#39 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -13.6-25% | 29.6 | OR |
| Public land shareGap +37.5 pts · US 17.16% | 52.6%#5 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +37.5 pts | 17.16% | OR |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 23.2 min#15 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | -3.5 min | 25.2 min | OR |
| Commuters using public transitGap -1.9 pts · US 2.29% | 2.4%#13 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 2.29% | HI |
| Workers working from homeGap +8.2 pts · US 12.28% | 17.1%#2 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 12.28% | OR |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.7 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#14 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 92.67% | OR |
| Households moving inIRSGap +39,360 (+157%) · US 78,682 | 64,386#23 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +39,360+157% | 78,682 | OR |
| Households moving outIRSGap +36,808 (+133%) · US 78,715 | 64,431#29 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +36,808+133% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +2,552 · US -33 | -45#27 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +2,552 | -33 | OR |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.8 · US +0.4 | -0.0#27 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +1.8 | +0.4 | OR |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,301 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $74,782#29 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | -$3,301-4% | $77,690 | HI |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,261 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $82,124#14 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$11,261+16% | $77,024 | OR |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +6.7 · US +1.1 | +0.5#30 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +6.7 | +1.1 | OR |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$26,899 · US -$11,758 | -$41,836#44 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$26,899 | -$11,758 | OR |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$11,230 · US +$31,418 | +$20,952#45 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$11,230 | +$31,418 | OR |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$13,008 · US +$35,970 | +$24,110#44 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$13,008 | +$35,970 | OR |
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 Oregon and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Hawaii ranks higher overall
Hawaii leads 4 of the 11 categories to Oregon's 6, with 1 even; Oregon is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Oregon is ahead on 29 and Hawaii on 15.
Oregon is cheaper day to day
Oregon's cost of living index is 103.4 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $496,113 in Oregon and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$41,836 a year after typical costs in Oregon and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Oregon takes a smaller share in taxes
Oregon collects 9.06% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax 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 $85,220 in Oregon and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 5.2% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 311 per 100,000 residents in Oregon and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
821 people moved from Oregon to Hawaii and 1,604 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Hawaii for families, Oregon for retirees
For families, Oregon ranks #42 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Oregon ranks #20 and Hawaii #39.
Oregon vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Oregon or Hawaii better to live in?
Oregon ranks #35 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Oregon is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 110), has a 4.9-point lower tax burden, and has a 34% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 6.
Is Oregon cheaper than Hawaii?
Oregon is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 103.4 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$41,836 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Oregon, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $496,113 in Oregon and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Oregon or Hawaii?
Oregon has the lower tax burden: 9.06% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Oregon's top income tax rate is 14.69%, its effective property tax rate 0.86% and its combined sales tax 0%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Oregon safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 311 in Oregon, per the FBI. Oregon ranks #29 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 2,118 per 100,000 in Oregon and 1,604 in Hawaii.
Are homes more expensive in Oregon or Hawaii?
Homes are 68% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $496,113 in Oregon and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $130,378 of household income in Oregon and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $85,220 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Oregon or Hawaii?
Hawaii pays more: median household income is $100,745 vs $85,220 in Oregon, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.2% in Oregon and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Oregon's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 10 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 2, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from Oregon to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Oregon?
782 households moved from Oregon to Hawaii and 999 moved from Hawaii to Oregon in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 217 households for Oregon. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $68,826; movers to Oregon reported $62,642. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 821 people (±426) moving from Oregon to Hawaii and 1,604 (±947) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Oregon or Hawaii?
Oregon is the better fit for retirees: #20 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Oregon has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax 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 +$24,110 left after typical costs in Oregon and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Oregon or Hawaii?
Hawaii is the better fit for families: #27 of 50 on the families index vs #42 for Oregon. Center-based infant care costs $21,774 a year in Oregon and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 81.3% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$41,836 after typical costs in Oregon and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii better than Oregon?
Yes: Hawaii ranks higher than Oregon overall, #17 of 50 vs #35, with a composite score of 64.8 to 50.9. Hawaii leads 4 of 11 categories and Oregon leads 6, 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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