Hilo, Hawaii
Population: 45,703
Share of population 65+: 18.5%
Living costs for retirees: n/a
Average income for 65+: $54,503
Community score: n/a
State’s tax rating for retirees: Tax-Friendly
Best known for its incredibly stunning and alluring beaches, excellent climate and unreasonably high prices, Hawaii is, surprisingly enough, a friendly state for retirees. It’s true that in Big Island’s popular Hilo, the living cost is 36.4% more than the national average, but it is way more affordable than living in Honolulu. According to Sperling’s BestPlaces, the residents of the capital city in Oahu have 101.1% living expenses above the national average.
The median home value in Hilo is $339,800, which seems huge compared to the U.S. median of $229,000 but definitely not as pricey as the $676,100 median in Honolulu.
If you can get past the living costs, you can start enjoying the local lifestyle in Hilo. Being located on the eastern coast of the island and close to the active volcano Mauna Loa, the town is a great destination for adventurous people who want to explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the beautiful waterfall and rainforests. Not to mention the downtown areas where you can relax and visit galleries and museums such as ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, shop and enjoy the cozy restaurants.
