Tips For Affordable Hawaii Living
The cost of living in Hawaii is one of the highest in the world. So, you ask: what are the ways you can offset this higher cost of living in the islands? I’m sure there are hundreds of other ways, but here are some tips for you:
1. Shop For Local Produce
For our vegetables and fruits, we go to the farmers market and swap meet on a regular basis. A bunch of kale from the grocery costs $3.99, while it’s $1.00 per bunch from the local swap meet. Imported fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and cherries will cost you an arm and a leg, so why not try the locally grown banana apple, dragon fruit, rambutan, or sugar apple? Explore and enjoy the tropical fruits and your taste buds will surely be delighted.
2. Buy Second Hand
Craiglist and Facebook Marketplace offer great deals! You can truly find anything if you set an objective to find it. Shop here first before buying retail prices.
3. Free Activities For the Family
There are free ukulele classes, free surfing classes, free hula classes, free yoga by the beach, free surf lessons, and free museums abound. Many are charities sponsored by local churches, grants, or even meetups on a donation basis. Explore free or discounted rates for swimming classes, basketball clinics, etc.
Festivals abound, and almost every week, each region is busy hosting an event, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
4. Let the Breeze In
Hawaii has one of the most expensive electricity costs in all of the States. Since Hawaii does have wonderful weather all throughout the year, the a/c is hardly ever used. Leaving the windows open lets the trade winds pass through and even the hottest summer nights are still comfortable. Unlike the rest of the States where heating is necessary during the winter months, we don’t bother with it here in the islands. Of course, the beaches are within reach to cool us off. Don’t forget the mat – the trees will always lure you under its shade!
5. Free Outdoor Fun
With the natural landscape
