Pros and Cons of Living on Hawaii’s Big Island

Have you ever dreamed of waking up to the sound of waves, walking barefoot on black sand beaches, or watching a fiery sunset behind palm trees? For many, moving to Hawaii’s Big Island sounds like paradise. But is it really all sunshine and rainbows?

Like any big move, living on the Big Island comes with both perks and challenges. Whether you’re eyeing a permanent home or just fantasizing about that island life, it’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons of living on Hawaii’s Big Island before taking the plunge.

Let’s dive into the real-life ups and downs of calling this tropical oasis home.

🌴 Why People Love Living on the Big Island

Hawaii’s Big Island offers something truly special. It’s not just another beachy place—it has a character all its own. Here are some of the reasons people fall in love with it:

1. Stunning Natural Beauty

Want to experience all four seasons in one day? You sort of can here.

From snow-capped Mauna Kea to fiery volcano craters, thick rainforests to lava deserts, the Big Island is like Earth’s sampler platter. There’s no shortage of breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and stargazing? Check, check, check, and check.

2. Laid-Back, Low-Stress Lifestyle

Life runs on “island time” here—things are a little slower, and people generally aren’t in a rush. If you’re tired of city noise and hustle, the Big Island offers a calmer, more peaceful pace.

You’ll typically enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, caring neighbors, and a strong sense of community—especially in smaller towns like Waimea or Pāhoa.

3. Rich Culture and Local Traditions

Living in Hawaii means immersing yourself in a deep-rooted culture influenced by Native Hawaiian traditions, Asian heritage, and a shared respect for the land and sea (called “ʻāina” in Hawaiian).

You’ll find farmers’ markets, festivals, hula performances, and community potlucks around nearly every corner. If you’re open to learning and respecting local ways, this can be incredibly rewarding.

4. Space, Space, and More Space

Unlike Oahu or Maui, Hawaii’s Big Island isn’t overcrowded. It’s the largest island in the chain and still has plenty of undeveloped areas. That means more room to breathe, bigger lots, and often lower home prices—especially if you’re okay with being outside the main tourist zones.

5. Lower Property Prices (Relatively Speaking)

Housing is never exactly “cheap” in Hawaii, but compared to other islands, you’ll find more homes for your buck here. Many people move to the Big Island for a more affordable slice of paradise, especially in areas like Puna or Kaʻū.

🌋 Challenges of Living on the Big Island

Paradise doesn’t mean perfection. While the island lifestyle has its dreamy moments, there are also a few hurdles to consider.

1. Isolation and Distance from Mainland

Getting anywhere outside Hawaii takes time and money. A quick “weekend trip” to visit family on the mainland? That could cost you hundreds in airfare and take most of a day. If you’re someone who travels often or gets homesick easily, this can be tough.

2. High Cost of Living

Even if housing is more affordable here than on Oahu or Maui, other costs are still high. Groceries, gas, and utilities typically cost more due to shipping and limited local production.

Some items may be 30–50% more expensive than on the mainland. Simple things—like eating out or getting your car repaired—can surprise you with sticker shock.

3. Limited Medical Services

While the Big Island does have a few hospitals and clinics, advanced or specialized treatments are often only available on Oahu—meaning a trip off-island. Older adults or those with chronic conditions should factor healthcare access into their decision.

4. Volcanic Activity and Air Quality

Living on a volcanic island sounds cool—until you realize it’s not all lava tubes and Instagram shots. Volcanic smog (“vog”) can affect air quality, especially when Kīlauea is active.

There’s also the risk of lava flows and earthquakes. Most people live safely outside active zones, but you’ll want to know what kind of lava zone your property is in before buying.

5. Limited Job Opportunities

Tourism, agriculture, and education tend to dominate the island’s economy. Unless you bring your job with you (like remote work!), finding steady, high-paying work can be a struggle, especially in more rural areas.

Are you okay with a simpler lifestyle or finding creative income streams? If so, this might not be a deal-breaker.

📍Should You Move to the Big Island?

Let’s paint a picture.

If you’re someone who values nature, community, and a slower pace—and you don’t mind being far from major cities—you’ll likely thrive on the Big Island. Many residents wouldn’t dream of living anywhere else. They hike waterfalls on weekends, know their neighbors by name, and swap mangoes in the summer. That’s hard to beat.

But if you crave nightlife, shopping centers, gourmet dining every week, or career climbing in a fast-paced city? This island might feel too secluded.

So, what’s the final verdict?

✔️ Quick Recap: Pros and Cons of Living on Hawaii’s Big Island

Pros:

• Incredible natural beauty—from volcanoes to beaches
• Peaceful, slow-paced island lifestyle
• Strong sense of community and local culture
• More space and affordable housing (compared to other islands)
• Outdoor adventure around every corner

Cons:

• Higher everyday expenses (groceries, gas, etc.)
• Job market can be limited
• Medical services are fewer and more distant
• Island is remote—travel is harder and costlier
• Exposure to vog, volcano activity, and natural risks

🏖️ Final Thoughts

Living on Hawaii’s Big Island is about embracing a lifestyle—one that might not be for everyone but is deeply fulfilling for many. It’s quiet, beautiful, and rich with history and heart.

Is it paradise? That depends on what paradise means to you.

If the idea of trading traffic for tidepools and commuter trains for coconuts excites you—you just might find your dream life on the Big Island.

Interested in moving to Hawaii? Take a long vacation there first, talk to locals, and maybe even test out working remotely on the island. When you know, you’ll know.

Aloha! 🌺

Thinking of making the move? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments—let’s talk island life!