10 Tips for Moving to Maui
Most people daydream about living in Hawaii. A tropical wonderland with sunny beaches, warm oceans, rich culture, abundant natural beauty, and some of the finest dining in the world. Not many make that dream come true. The cost of living in Hawaii usually tops the list of excuses on why people can never move to Hawaii, as well as logistics, timing, and just plain fear of change, but it IS possible with some preparation. For those looking for some tips on moving to, you’re in the right place. Here are some valuable tips on moving to the life-enriching island of Maui, Hawaii.
1. Plan Ahead. Think about what area of the island you want to live on. Do you want to be in the rainforest like Hana or a dry, sunny area like Lahaina? A more touristy area like Kihei or more local area like Pukalani? Some people recommend renting before you buy to get a feel for the neighborhood to see if you’d like it long-term. One good way to get answers is by joining a Facebook group of local people from Maui so you can ask questions about moving. Here’s a great one. The thing is, if you’re friendly, respect the land and the people of Maui, you’ll be welcomed in with open arms.
2. Ship or Buy? Do you have a family heirloom dresser you just have to have in Hawaii? Is your car worth shipping? While shipping can be expensive, so can buying all new things when you arrive. One option that many people choose is to sell their things, travel light, then buy from liquidators like Da Warehouse, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace to stock their home with high quality used furniture at a fraction of the price. Not only do big hotels update their furniture often and sell their inventory, but people move to and from Maui a lot and you can save on the cost of living in Hawaii if you’re willing to wait it out on an air mattress for a bit.
3. Find a job. If you’re not already independently wealthy (if you are, nice work!), you’ll be looking for a job when you get to Maui. The highest paying gigs and most in-demand positions are healthcare workers, massage therapists, lawyers, and realtors. They joke that you can’t throw a stone on Maui without hitting a massage therapist and a realtor. The nice thing about a small island is that there is a lot of room for innovation and growth. If you’re a smart entrepreneur, you’ll have no problem finding your market on Maui. There are great resources for networking, including the Maui Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Development Center, and Rotary Clubs.
4. Cultivate your community. Whether it’s volunteering, joining an outrigger paddling club or attending the fancy charitable galas for the numerous non-profits of Maui, there are many ways to connect with people that are interested in the same things you are. Or, you can try something new! There are outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and kiteboarding. There are more eclectic community theater crowds and wine enthusiasts. You’ll find your people if you go looking for them in the right places.
5. Housing. If there’s a Hawaii house for sale with your name on it, you must have the right realtor. If you haven’t found the right place, it’s important to find a Maui real estate agent that will give it to you straight, help you with every step, and match your financial plan to your future Maui home. Obviously, that choice is Li Hay, Maui Living. Li will listen to your preferences, needs and concerns and match you with the perfect home, condo, or apartment to fit your lifestyle and budget.
6. Cost of living in Hawaii. This is a hot topic because it can be true if you don’t know how to keep the cost of living in Hawaii down. A few ways to save are by shopping at the Farmer’s Market (The Upcountry Farmer’s Market on Saturdays from 7-11 AM is the best), installing solar panels, and by growing your own food, which is a growing trend on the island.
7. Become one with the outdoors. When it comes to entertainment on Maui, the great outdoors is one of the best partners. There aren’t many big concerts, shows, or museums on Maui. There are almost an infinite number of things you can do in the scenic and sunny outdoors of Maui, Hawaii from hiking to water sports, camping, rock climbing, paragliding, farming to just lying on the beach and getting a tan. Getting familiar with the different beaches, trails, and secret local spots will serve you well as you cruise the island on a whim looking for adventure.
8. Get to know your neighbors. Once you move in, immediately say aloha to your neighbors, as a close community is a safe and a happy community. You’ll feel at right at home when your neighbors greet you with a shaka on your daily commute or stop to chat when you grab your mail.
9. Get rid of formal wear. Hawaii is a casual place where you wear sundresses and “fancy slippahs” for a night out on the town. There’s no need for your tux, sparkly gowns, leather loafers or high heels. Stilettos get stuck in the sand and the people of the islands love to keep it chill. Get yourself some Olukais and leave your Louboutins on the mainland. To fit in, look around and see what other people wear. If you want to feel special on your birthday, be sure to wear a flower lei to celebrate island style.
10. Give back. One of the most rewarding parts of living in a small community like Maui is the impact an individual can make by sharing a smile, volunteering, or picking up a few pieces of plastic when strolling the beach at sunrise with a hot cup of coffee in hand. There are so many organizations on the island to help those in need and all those places could use help. In Hawaii, they believe that we are all connected. If you become an integral part of the Maui community, you will live a long, happy life here in paradise.