Washington vs Hawaii: Which Is Better to Live In?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Washington is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 107 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 28% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 5.
- Residential electricity price is 68% lower in Washington (13.11¢/kWh vs. 40.59¢/kWh in Hawaii).
- Total tax burden is 38% lower in Washington (8.61% vs. 13.92% in Hawaii).
- Typical home value is 29% lower in Washington ($591,879 vs. $833,340 in Hawaii).
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -3 pts | 61.8#20 of 50 · B | 64.8#17 of 50 · B+ | -3 pts | — | HI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -3 pts-3% | 100 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$20,842 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$20,842 | -$11,758 | WA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$241,461 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$241,461-29% | $368,697 | WA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.31 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.31 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +79 (+38%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +79+38% | 328 | HI |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,356 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$1,356-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,436 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +12,436 | -33 | WA |
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 Washington or Hawaii better to live in?
Hawaii scores higher overall: 64.8 to 61.8 out of 100, #17 of 50 against #20. Washington leads 5 of 11 categories, Hawaii leads 3, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -34 | 15% | 52.3#16 · B+ | 86.3#1 · A+ | -34 pts | HI |
| Safety12% of scoregap -11.8 | 12% | 63.9#30 · C+ | 75.7#21 · B | -11.8 pts | HI |
| Health12% of scoregap -20.4 | 12% | 68.2#13 · B+ | 88.6#2 · A+ | -20.4 pts | HI |
| Education12% of scoregap -1.7 | 12% | 57.4#29 · C+ | 59.1#28 · C+ | -1.7 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +34.7 | 10% | 39.1#46 · D | 4.4#50 · F | +34.7 pts | WA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +27.8 | 8% | 64.3#17 · B+ | 36.5#48 · D | +27.8 pts | WA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +15.5 | 7% | 40.8#24 · B | 25.3#40 · C | +15.5 pts | WA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.2 | 7% | 58.6#8 · A | 54.4#16 · B+ | +4.2 pts | WA |
| Livability7% of scoregap -0.6 | 7% | 33.9#25 · B | 34.5#20 · B | -0.6 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -0.9 | 6% | 35.4#19 · B | 36.3#18 · B+ | -0.9 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap +16.2 | 4% | 73.1#3 · A+ | 56.9#8 · A | +16.2 pts | WA |
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 Washington cheaper than Hawaii?
Washington is cheaper: cost of living index 107 vs 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $20,842 more a year in Washington after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -3 pts-3% | 100 | WA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.2 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -7.2 pts-6% | 100 | WA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -27.48¢ (-68%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -27.48¢-68% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$34.76 (-66%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$34.76-66% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.66 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.66-14% | $3.32/gal | WA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,960 (-8%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$1,960-8% | $15,633 | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$12,410 | +$22,132costs $52,869 | +$9,722costs $65,279 | +$12,410 | WA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$14,188 | +$8,419costs $66,582 | -$5,769costs $80,769 | +$14,188 | WA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$20,842 | -$47,893costs $122,893 | -$68,735costs $143,735 | +$20,842 | WA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$12,565 | +$23,667costs $51,333 | +$11,102costs $63,899 | +$12,565 | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$11,693 | $41,123 | $52,816 | -$11,693 | WA |
| ChildcareGap -$3,920 | $46,272 | $50,192 | -$3,920 | WA |
| UtilitiesGap -$144 | $5,136 | $5,280 | -$144 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$811 | $11,759 | $12,570 | -$811 | WA |
| TransportationGap -$2,075 | $12,791 | $14,866 | -$2,075 | WA |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,199 | $5,812 | $8,011 | -$2,199 | WA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Hawaii?
Washington collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.61% vs 13.92%. Washington has no income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; Hawaii has high income tax, low property tax, low sales tax.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.31 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.31 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.61 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.61 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +5.01 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +5.01 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 Washington or Hawaii?
Homes cost 41% more in Hawaii: a typical home value of $591,879 in Washington vs $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of income in Washington and $202,402 in Hawaii; the median household earns $99,389 and $100,745.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$241,461 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$241,461-29% | $368,697 | WA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.4 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$742 (-25%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$742-25% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$46,860 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$46,860-23% | $100,006 | WA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-28%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.3x-28% | 4.6x | WA |
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.
| WA | HI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,045 | $4,288 |
| Income needed vs. median | +57% | +101% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +16.1% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Seattle | 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 Washington or Hawaii?
Median household income is about the same, $99,389 in Washington and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 4.7% and 2.4%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 0.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,356 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$1,356-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,950 (+45%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$27,950+45% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Population growthGap +1.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1.07 pts | +0.51% | WA |
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 | WA | HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $201,709$219,863 in Seattle | $130,870$142,648 in Honolulu | WA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $256,858$279,975 in Seattle | $222,456$242,477 in Honolulu | WA |
| Civil Engineers | $113,237$123,428 in Seattle | $95,783$104,403 in Honolulu | WA |
| Lawyers | $160,128$174,540 in Seattle | $147,403$160,669 in Honolulu | WA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,146$92,809 in Seattle | $72,942$79,507 in Honolulu | WA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $57,121$62,262 in Seattle | $45,961$50,097 in Honolulu | WA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $81,341$88,662 in Seattle | $70,704$77,067 in Honolulu | WA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,449$99,679 in Seattle | $80,939$88,223 in Honolulu | WA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,134$124,406 in Seattle | $104,027$113,389 in Honolulu | WA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,718$68,363 in Seattle | $53,672$58,503 in Honolulu | WA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,972$71,909 in Seattle | $57,100$62,239 in Honolulu | WA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,461$66,992 in Seattle | $52,646$57,384 in Honolulu | WA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $72,237$78,738 in Seattle | $63,497$69,212 in Honolulu | WA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $60,319$65,748 in Seattle | $51,849$56,515 in Honolulu | WA |
| Electricians | $71,567$78,008 in Seattle | $63,566$69,287 in Honolulu | WA |
| General & Operations Managers | $111,897$121,968 in Seattle | $103,999$113,359 in Honolulu | WA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $72,161$78,655 in Seattle | $65,250$71,123 in Honolulu | WA |
| Construction Laborers | $50,324$54,853 in Seattle | $44,856$48,893 in Honolulu | WA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,081$43,688 in Seattle | $37,595$40,979 in Honolulu | WA |
| Registered Nurses | $100,733$109,799 in Seattle | $100,764$109,833 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 Washington safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington (FBI). Property crime runs 1,975 and 1,604 per 100,000.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +79 (+38%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +79+38% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +371 (+23%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +371+23% | 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.
- Kirkland, WA67 violent per 100K
- No city crime data
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Washington or Hawaii?
Washington and Hawaii are close on education (#29 and #28 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 86%. Hawaii scores higher for health (#2 vs #13); life expectancy is 78.4 years in Washington and 80.0 in Hawaii.
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +4 pts+17% | 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).
- Sammamish, WAeducation score 94.4
- 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: Washington #29, Hawaii #28. Health: Washington #13, Hawaii #2.
Are more people moving from Washington to Hawaii, or from Hawaii to Washington?
1,761 households moved from Washington to Hawaii and 2,451 moved from Hawaii to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 690 households for Washington. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $102,016; movers to Washington reported $74,706. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,329 people (±1,535) moving from Washington to Hawaii and 2,534 (±953) 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 | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +97,158 (+388%) | 122,184#9 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +97,158+388% | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +84,722 (+307%) | 112,345#40 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +84,722+307% | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,436 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +12,436 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.0 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +3.0 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$11,807 (+15%) | $89,890#8 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$11,807+15% | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,259 (+41%) | $100,122#7 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$29,259+41% | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.4 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +7.4 | WA |
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, Washington or Hawaii?
Washington is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, and small business; Hawaii is the better fit for families; 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 | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #32score 61 | #27score 63 | +5 places | HI |
| RetireesGap -22 places | #17score 66.7 | #39score 54.4 | -22 places | WA |
| Remote WorkersGap -26 places | #19score 54.8 | #45score 40.3 | -26 places | WA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #27score 53.3 | #25score 53.7 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -11 places | #23score 58.8 | #34score 48.7 | -11 places | WA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #13score 57.4 | #14score 56.7 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesHawaii (#27 vs #32)
- RetireesWashington (#17 vs #39)
- Remote WorkersWashington (#19 vs #45)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#27 vs #25)
- Small BusinessWashington (#23 vs #34)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#13 vs #14)
Which cities stand out in Washington and Hawaii?
Washington has 26 tracked cities and Hawaii has 20; the largest are Seattle and Honolulu. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Seattle754,195 people | Honolulu345,482 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Redmondscore 71.1 | East Honoluluscore 68.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Kirkland67 violent per 100K | — |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yakimacost index 95.5 | Hilocost index 106.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Seattlewalkability 15.8 of 20 | Mililani Maukawalkability 14.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pascocounty median AQI 23 | Kahuluicounty median AQI 21 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sammamish94.4% graduation rate | Honolulu86% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Sammamishmedian income $239,690 | East Honolulumedian income $159,518 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kirkland+3% growth | Honolulu-0.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Washington and Hawaii compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Washington carries AA+ credit rating and Hawaii AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.5 (-23%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -12.5-23% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap +13.4 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +13.4 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | WA |
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 | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,930 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$2,930-45% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | WA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Washington 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).
Washington vs Hawaii: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Washington is ahead on 32 of 51, Hawaii on 11, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | WashingtonWA | HawaiiHI | GapWA−HI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,568,200 (+458%) · US 6.8 million | 8 million#13 of 50 | 1.4 million#40 of 50 | +6,568,200+458% | 6.8 million | WA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,356 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $99,389#7 of 50 | $100,745#4 of 50 | -$1,356-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.7%#43 of 50 | 2.4%#2 of 50 | +2.3 pts | 3.95% | HI |
| Population growthGap +1.07 pts · US +0.51% | +0.92%#7 of 50 | -0.15%#49 of 50 | +1.07 pts | +0.51% | WA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,950 (+45%) · US $64,333 | $89,989#3 of 50 | $62,039#25 of 50 | +$27,950+45% | $64,333 | WA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#5 of 50 | +1.4%#39 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | WA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +79 (+38%) · US 328 | 284#25 of 50 | 205#7 of 50 | +79+38% | 328 | HI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +371 (+23%) · US 1,535 | 1,975#46 of 50 | 1,604#32 of 50 | +371+23% | 1,535 | HI |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.4 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#36 of 50 | 86%#29 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 85.62% | HI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 238#26 of 50 | 239#15 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +4 · US 273 | 274#25 of 50 | 270#30 of 50 | +4 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 216#19 of 50 | 216#16 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 257 | 259#17 of 50 | 257#26 of 50 | +2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.4#13 of 50 | 80.0#1 of 50 | -1.6 yrs | 76.9 | HI |
| Adults with obesityGap +4.5 pts · US 34.03% | 31.5%#13 of 50 | 27%#3 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 34.03% | HI |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +3 pts · US 7.6% | 6.5%#19 of 50 | 3.5%#2 of 50 | +3 pts | 7.6% | HI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$241,461 (-29%) · US $368,697 | $591,879#47 of 50 | $833,340#50 of 50 | -$241,461-29% | $368,697 | WA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.4 pts · US +1.2% | -0.3%#43 of 50 | +1.1%#35 of 50 | -1.4 pts | +1.2% | HI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$742 (-25%) · US $1,948 | $2,278#41 of 50 | $3,020#48 of 50 | -$742-25% | $1,948 | WA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$46,860 (-23%) · US $100,006 | $155,542#46 of 50 | $202,402#50 of 50 | -$46,860-23% | $100,006 | WA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 107#46 of 50 | 110#49 of 50 | -3 pts-3% | 100 | WA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -2.3x (-28%) · US 4.6x | 6x#44 of 50 | 8.3x#50 of 50 | -2.3x-28% | 4.6x | WA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -27.48¢ (-68%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.11¢/kWh#8 of 50 | 40.59¢/kWh#50 of 50 | -27.48¢-68% | 17.84¢/kWh | WA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$34.76 (-66%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.62/Mcf#38 of 50 | $52.38/Mcf#50 of 50 | -$34.76-66% | $15.83/Mcf | WA |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.66 (-14%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.07/gal#47 of 50 | $4.73/gal#50 of 50 | -$0.66-14% | $3.32/gal | WA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -7.2 pts (-6%) · US 100 | 104.4#44 of 50 | 111.6#50 of 50 | -7.2 pts-6% | 100 | WA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,960 (-8%) · US $15,633 | $23,136#47 of 50 | $25,096#48 of 50 | -$1,960-8% | $15,633 | WA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -5.31 pts · US 8.74% | 8.61%#22 of 50 | 13.92%#50 of 50 | -5.31 pts | 8.74% | WA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -11 pts · US 5.46% | none#4 of 50 | 11%#46 of 50 | -11 pts | 5.46% | WA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.61 pts · US 1.02% | 0.88%#27 of 50 | 0.27%#1 of 50 | +0.61 pts | 1.02% | HI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +5.01 pts · US 6.66% | 9.51%#48 of 50 | 4.5%#6 of 50 | +5.01 pts | 6.66% | HI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 95#25 of 50 | 95#23 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4 pts · US 12.39% | 9.8%#27 of 50 | 5.8%#43 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.39% | WA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +23 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#12 of 50 | 59%#45 of 50 | +23 pts | 74.3% | WA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,930 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $3,650#36 of 50 | $6,580#45 of 50 | -$2,930-45% | $3,506 | WA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.8%#40 of 50 | +2.1%#43 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | WA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +4 pts (+17%) · US 38.8 | 28#4 of 50 | 24#1 of 50 | +4 pts+17% | 38.8 | HI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +44 pts · US 29.34% | 74%#4 of 50 | 30%#21 of 50 | +44 pts | 29.34% | WA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -12.5 (-23%) · US 29.6 | 41.5#41 of 50 | 54.0#47 of 50 | -12.5-23% | 29.6 | WA |
| Public land shareGap +13.4 pts · US 17.16% | 28.5%#12 of 50 | 15.1%#15 of 50 | +13.4 pts | 17.16% | WA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +0.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.2 min#39 of 50 | 26.7 min#35 of 50 | +0.5 min | 25.2 min | Even |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.1 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#7 of 50 | 4.3%#6 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +7.5 pts · US 12.28% | 16.4%#3 of 50 | 8.9%#41 of 50 | +7.5 pts | 12.28% | WA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#3 of 50 | 93%#21 of 50 | +2 pts | 92.67% | WA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +97,158 (+388%) · US 78,682 | 122,184#9 of 50 | 25,026#39 of 50 | +97,158+388% | 78,682 | WA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +84,722 (+307%) · US 78,715 | 112,345#40 of 50 | 27,623#13 of 50 | +84,722+307% | 78,715 | HI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +12,436 · US -33 | +9,839#9 of 50 | -2,597#36 of 50 | +12,436 | -33 | WA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.0 · US +0.4 | +1.2#18 of 50 | -1.8#42 of 50 | +3.0 | +0.4 | WA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$11,807 (+15%) · US $77,690 | $89,890#8 of 50 | $78,083#27 of 50 | +$11,807+15% | $77,690 | WA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$29,259 (+41%) · US $77,024 | $100,122#7 of 50 | $70,863#31 of 50 | +$29,259+41% | $77,024 | WA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +7.4 · US +1.1 | +1.2#24 of 50 | -6.2#49 of 50 | +7.4 | +1.1 | WA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$20,842 · US -$11,758 | -$47,893#47 of 50 | -$68,735#50 of 50 | +$20,842 | -$11,758 | WA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$12,410 · US +$31,418 | +$22,132#44 of 50 | +$9,722#50 of 50 | +$12,410 | +$31,418 | WA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$12,565 · US +$35,970 | +$23,667#45 of 50 | +$11,102#50 of 50 | +$12,565 | +$35,970 | WA |
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 Washington and Hawaii numbers say when read together.
Hawaii ranks higher overall
Hawaii leads 3 of the 11 categories to Washington's 5, with 3 even; Washington is ahead on affordability and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Washington is ahead on 32 and Hawaii on 11.
Washington is cheaper day to day
Washington's cost of living index is 107 against 110 in Hawaii (US = 100). The typical home costs $591,879 in Washington and $833,340 in Hawaii. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 a year after typical costs in Washington and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Washington takes a smaller share in taxes
Washington collects 8.61% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high 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 is safer
Median household income is $99,389 in Washington and $100,745 in Hawaii, with unemployment at 4.7% and 2.4%. Violent crime runs 284 per 100,000 residents in Washington and 205 in Hawaii.
Moves between the two run about even
4,329 people moved from Washington to Hawaii and 2,534 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Hawaii for families, Washington for retirees
For families, Washington ranks #32 of 50 and Hawaii #27; for retirees, Washington ranks #17 and Hawaii #39.
Washington vs Hawaii: frequently asked questions
Is Washington or Hawaii better to live in?
Washington ranks #20 of 50 overall and Hawaii #17 as of the latest release. Washington is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 107 vs 110), has no income tax, and has a 28% higher violent crime rate. Hawaii scores higher overall, leading 3 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Washington cheaper than Hawaii?
Washington is cheaper than Hawaii: cost of living index 107 vs 110 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$47,893 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Washington, and -$68,735 in Hawaii. The typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $833,340 in Hawaii.
Which has lower taxes, Washington or Hawaii?
Washington has the lower tax burden: 8.61% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.92% in Hawaii. Washington's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.88% and its combined sales tax 9.51%; Hawaii's are 11%, 0.27% and 4.5%.
Is Washington safer than Hawaii?
Hawaii is safer: 205 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 284 in Washington, per the FBI. Washington ranks #25 of 50 for violent crime and Hawaii #7. Property crime is 1,975 per 100,000 in Washington and 1,604 in Hawaii.
Are homes more expensive in Washington or Hawaii?
Homes are 41% more expensive in Hawaii: the typical home value is $591,879 in Washington and $833,340 in Hawaii. Buying the typical home takes about $155,542 of household income in Washington and $202,402 in Hawaii, against median incomes of $99,389 and $100,745.
Do people earn more in Washington or Hawaii?
Washington and Hawaii pay about the same: median household income is $99,389 vs $100,745, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.7% in Washington and 2.4% in Hawaii. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Washington's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Hawaii's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Washington to Hawaii or from Hawaii to Washington?
1,761 households moved from Washington to Hawaii and 2,451 moved from Hawaii to Washington in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 690 households for Washington. Movers to Hawaii reported an average income of $102,016; movers to Washington reported $74,706. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,329 people (±1,535) moving from Washington to Hawaii and 2,534 (±953) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Washington or Hawaii?
Washington is the better fit for retirees: #17 of 50 on the retiree index vs #39 for Hawaii. Washington has no income tax, high 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 +$23,667 left after typical costs in Washington and +$11,102 in Hawaii.
Which is better for families, Washington or Hawaii?
Hawaii is the better fit for families: #27 of 50 on the families index vs #32 for Washington. Center-based infant care costs $23,136 a year in Washington and $25,096 in Hawaii. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 86%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$47,893 after typical costs in Washington and -$68,735 in Hawaii.
Is Hawaii better than Washington?
Yes: Hawaii ranks higher than Washington overall, #17 of 50 vs #20, with a composite score of 64.8 to 61.8. Hawaii leads 3 of 11 categories and Washington leads 5, including affordability and fiscal 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 Washington vs Hawaii.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (2,451 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).