Article: Most products in Hawaii cost more than you may be accustomed to coming from the mainland United States.  All products must be shipped to Hawaii, dramatically increasing their costs and utilities are also more expensive.  Things like electricity can cost two to three times the average price of the same usage on the mainland. Dietary staples like milk and other common groceries are also significantly more expensive. Property values are extremely high, so housing is more expensive than most places in the mainland United States per square foot. Living on an island brings about risks that you may not be accustomed to now, but will need to adjust to after moving to Hawaii.  While it is a safe place to live overall, you’re at a higher risk of experiencing some emergency situations than you would be elsewhere in the United States.  Hurricanes and tsunamis are a dangerous reality for those living in Hawaii and other island nations. There are dangerous forms of sea life that thrive in the coasts of Hawaii.  While shark attacks are uncommon, they are not unheard of. Hawaii is a rabies free state, which means they take the risks brought about by imported pets extremely seriously. You will have to be prepared to leave your pets in quarantine for a period of time upon your arrival to the island.  Depending the on the age, breed and species of your pet, it will be quarantined for anywhere from five to thirty days to ensure it does not carry the rabies or other communicable viruses. Your pet should have all necessary vaccinations before arriving on the island. Your pet also is required to be micro-chipped prior to arriving in Hawaii. Hawaii is a very welcoming place with countless reasons to live there, but it is not without issues.  Because of the colonial history of Hawaii, native Hawaiians suffered a great deal at the hands of others through economic, political and even violent oppression.  Remnants of the tension between native Hawaiians and people relocating to the island remain to this day.  “Haole” is a term for “mainlander” and is often used to describe those who relocate or visit the island from elsewhere in the world. It is not always used in a derogatory way, but it can be. You should become familiar with the term and what it represents. Be respectful of Hawaiian culture and keep in mind that you are relocating to a place with a rich cultural history. Learn the areas that are unsafe to travel in alone or at night.  Like most places throughout the world, there are some areas that are more dangerous than others. Participate in community events and make friends with the people you live near in order to establish yourself as a respectful haole.

What is a summary?
Adjust to a higher cost of living. Understand the risks associated with island living. Prepare your pets. Respect Hawaiian culture.