Hawaii

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State Motto

Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness)

State Motto of Hawaii

Hawaii State Information

Hawaii is the 50th State in the Union

Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, is a stunning tropical archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean. The state consists of eight main islands and numerous smaller islets, each with its own unique natural beauty, including lush rainforests, volcanic craters, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems. Hawaii is famous for its warm tropical climate, which draws visitors from around the world to enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and snorkeling.

Hawaii's culture is a rich blend of native Hawaiian traditions and influences from Asian and Pacific Islander communities. This multicultural heritage is reflected in the state's cuisine, music, and festivals. Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, serves as the capital and economic center of the state, while the islands as a whole offer a balance of ancient cultural practices and modern living. Hawaii continues to be a popular destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, with its unique charm and natural wonders attracting millions of visitors each year.

State Nickname of Hawaii

Hawaii Geography

Download maps of Hawaii

Hawaii's geography is breathtakingly diverse, shaped by its volcanic origins and located in the central Pacific Ocean. The state consists of eight main islands and several smaller islets, each offering unique natural features. The Big Island, also called Hawaii, is known for its active volcanoes like Kīlauea, which continuously reshapes the land, while Maui is home to the towering Haleakalā volcano, offering dramatic sunrise views. Oahu, the most populous island, blends vibrant city life in Honolulu with stunning natural landmarks like Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. Kauai, the oldest of the islands, is renowned for its lush rainforests, rugged cliffs, and the breathtaking Na Pali Coast.

Hawaii’s beaches, coral reefs, and tropical climate make it a top destination for water activities like surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The islands also offer mountainous terrains with excellent hiking opportunities, such as the famed Mauna Kea sunrise and the lush trails on the Hana Highway in Maui. From pristine coastlines to volcanic landscapes and rainforests, Hawaii’s geography presents a captivating blend of natural wonders that make it a paradise for nature lovers and a truly unique place to call home.

Hawaii Economy

Hawaii's economy is largely fueled by tourism, which draws millions of visitors annually, making it a key contributor to the state's revenue. The state's beautiful beaches, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities make it a top global destination. Agriculture, once dominated by sugarcane and pineapple production, still plays a role, though these industries have declined in recent years. The defense sector is another important component, with numerous U.S. military bases stationed across the islands, contributing to employment and economic stability.

In recent years, Hawaii has been focusing on diversifying its economy by investing in renewable energy and technology sectors to reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels and create sustainable growth.

Hawaii at a Glance

Key facts about Hawaii covering taxes, cost of living, income, and climate.

Taxes

Hawaii has a graduated income tax ranging from 1.40% to 11.00%. Residents carry one of the highest overall tax burdens in the nation at 12.70% of income, and the combined state and local sales tax averages a low 4.50%.

Overall Tax Burden

Income Tax:	1.40% – 11.00%
Overall Tax Burden:	12.70% of income
State Sales Tax:	4.00% (4.50% avg combined with local)
Property Tax Rate:	0.29% effective rate
Gas Tax:	50.70¢ per gallon
Estate Tax:	Yes

Cost of Living & Housing

Hawaii has a significantly higher cost of living than the US average, coming in 84% more expensive. Housing is a major cost driver, with a median home price of $840,000.

Cost of Living Index

Cost of Living Index:	184.00 (US avg = 100)
Median Home Price:	$840,000
Median Monthly Rent:	$2,200/mo

Income & Employment

Hawaii's median household income of $94,814 is well above the national average. The unemployment rate of 2.20% is among the lowest in the country, and the poverty rate is 9.00%.

Median Household Income

Median Household Income:	$94,814
Minimum Wage:	$14.00/hr
Unemployment Rate:	2.20%
Poverty Rate:	9.00%

Climate

Hawaii is one of the cloudier states, averaging 90 sunny days per year. Winters are mild with an average January temperature of 73.0°F, and summers are warm at 83.0°F in July, and snow is rare.

Sunny Days / Year

Sunny Days / Year:	90 days
Avg January Temp:	73.0°F
Avg July Temp:	83.0°F
Annual Rainfall:	63.70"
Annual Snowfall:	0.00"

Demographics

Hawaii has a median age of 39.7, close to the national average. It is one of the most densely populated states at 226.6 people per square mile, and the population is declining at 0.4% per year.

Median Age

Median Age:	39.7 years
Population Density:	226.6 per sq mi
Population Growth:	-0.40% (last census)

Hawaii State Symbols