What Is a Good Salary in Hawaii?
A good salary in Hawaii is generally considered $95,000/year for a single person and $140,000/year for a family of four in 2026. The cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the nation — a 6-figure income may be needed for financial comfort. Up to 11% state income tax — highest in the us.
The median household income in Hawaii is $83,102, meaning half of all households earn more than this and half earn less. A “good” salary typically means earning comfortably above the median and being able to save, invest, and enjoy discretionary spending without financial stress.
Good Salary Thresholds in Hawaii (2026)
| Situation | Minimum Comfortable | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single person | $71,250 | $95,000 | $133,000 |
| Couple (dual income) | $105,000 | $140,000 | $189,000 |
| Family of 4 | $126,000 | $161,000 | $217,000 |
Monthly Breakdown: Living on $95,000/Year in Hawaii
Here’s what your monthly finances might look like on $95,000/year in Hawaii:
| Item | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly Salary | $7,916 |
| Estimated Taxes (~25%) | -$1,979 |
| Estimated Take-Home | $5,937 |
| Average 1BR Rent in Hawaii | -$2,800 |
| Groceries (avg) | -$400 |
| Transportation | -$350 |
| Utilities & Internet | -$200 |
| Remaining (savings, fun, other) | $2,187 |
This illustrates why $95,000/year is a solid benchmark for comfortable living in Hawaii — it leaves room for both essentials and discretionary spending. However, Hawaii’s cost varies significantly between metro areas and rural communities.
Cost of Living in Hawaii: What to Know
Hawaii’s cost of living is among the highest in the nation — a 6-figure income may be needed for financial comfort. Here are the key factors:
- Housing: Average 1-bedroom rent is approximately $2,800/month. Home prices vary widely — from $280,000 in rural areas to $1,120,000 in major metros.
- Taxes: Up to 11% state income tax — highest in the us.
- Transportation: Most residents own a car. Public transit is limited outside major cities.
- Healthcare: Healthcare costs vary by employer benefits. Uninsured costs are above average nationally.
Top Employers in Hawaii
The highest-paying jobs in Hawaii are concentrated with major employers including: tourism, military, healthcare, renewable energy. These organizations consistently offer salaries at or above the state’s “good” threshold.
How to Know if Your Salary Is Good in Hawaii
A salary is generally “good” in Hawaii if it allows you to:
- Cover housing costs without spending more than 30% of gross income on rent/mortgage
- Build an emergency fund of 3–6 months of expenses
- Contribute 10–15% to retirement savings
- Afford transportation, food, healthcare, and some discretionary spending
- Pay off any debt within a reasonable timeframe
At $95,000/year single or $140,000/year for a family, these benchmarks are achievable in Hawaii.
High-Paying Jobs in Hawaii in 2026
If you’re looking to earn a “good” or “excellent” salary in Hawaii, these roles consistently pay well:
| Job Title | Average Salary in Hawaii |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $121,600 |
| Physician | $213,750 |
| Pharmacist | $121,600 |
| Product Manager | $131,100 |
| Data Scientist | $140,600 |
| Financial Advisor | $104,500 |
| Nurse (RN) | $77,900 |
| Civil Engineer | $93,100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good salary in Hawaii in 2026?
A good salary in Hawaii is approximately $95,000/year for a single professional or $140,000/year for a family. This allows comfortable living while saving for retirement and emergencies.
What is the median income in Hawaii?
The median household income in Hawaii is $83,102/year. Earning above this puts you in the upper half of income earners in the state.
Is $95,000 a good salary in Hawaii?
Yes — $95,000/year is considered a good salary for a single person in Hawaii. After taxes and typical living expenses, you would have meaningful room for savings and discretionary spending.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Hawaii?
The minimum comfortable salary for a single person in Hawaii is approximately $71,250/year. Below that, living expenses can become tight depending on your city and lifestyle.
How does Hawaii’s cost of living compare to national average?
Hawaii’s cost of living is among the highest in the nation — a 6-figure income may be needed for financial comfort.
Related Resources
Data Sources
Income and cost-of-living data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, and Glassdoor.