Best Cities for Retirees in Hawaii

Hawaii sits at #30 out of 50 for retirees — solidly in the middle tier. The state offers above-average healthcare infrastructure alongside living costs that track near or above the national average (cost-of-living index: 109). It's a state where retirement can work well with proper planning, though it lacks the standout advantages of top-tier retirement destinations.

For retirees, healthcare access and tax friendliness are non-negotiable. Hawaii's health score of 84/100 reflects strong medical infrastructure — life expectancy here is 82.3 years, above the national average. On the tax front, the overall burden stands at 13.92% of income. The 11% income tax rate is worth factoring into retirement income projections. Property taxes run 0.27% (effective rate), which is among the lowest in the nation.

At $743,000, median home prices are above the national average — retirees relocating from lower-cost areas may face sticker shock. The state's safety profile is reassuring, with a safety score of 70/100. Livability amenities are more limited compared to top-ranked states, so retirees who value a vibrant social scene should focus their search on the state's larger metro areas.