Most people say that Hawaii is the most expensive US state. Irrespective of your opinion on this issue, there are certain facts you need to know about living in Hawaii. There are thousands of people who plan to relocate /move to Hawaii each year. If you plan to move to Hawaii, you most likely have lots of questions and want to have them tackled before you in reality move to the islands.



The first factor that you should consider when planning to live in Hawaii is the island you choose to live in. Life on the different islands varies, as well as the cost of living, salaries and job opportunities. Oahu is the busiest island in Hawaii. The other Islands of Maui, Kauai and the Big Island are less populated islands. In fact, living in these islands make you feel like you are in paradise. They are quite far from civilization and the city noise.

Housing Cost

Renting or buying a place in Hawaii is generally more expensive than on the mainland. Renting a studio on Oahu costs between the regions of $800 to $1300 per month. Of course this depends on the location where the studio is located. If you plan to rent an apartment or a house, expect to fork out around $1500 per month. This price applies to a two-bedroom apartment upwards. This again depends on the location. In fact, Waikiki is even more expensive. A one-bedroom apartment costs approximately $1,600 per month.

Cost of Food

It's important to note that up to 90 percent of Hawaii's food is imported. However, you can still purchase food at relatively affordable prices from chain stores like Wal Mart, Costco and Sam's club. There are also special sales from regular supermarkets. If you really plan not to hurt your pocket, then its advisable to buy what is on sale not what you stomach wants. Its even more expensive while dining outside. Breakfast costs anywhere between $5 to $8 while lunch goes for $6 to $12 and dinner costs about $12 to $30 and more.

Although I have not talked about Hawaii real estate and the universities in Hawaii, its important that you take note of these when moving to Hawaii.

Imagine saying your "I do's" on a beautiful white sand beach with palm trees swaying in the breeze, the ocean waves frolicking and kissing the shores, and the sun spreading its red-golden rays while setting into a distant mountain backdrop. Or imagine tying the knot amidst a tropical garden with cascading waterfalls in the background. Or under the deep blue ocean, amidst colorful corals and fishes. In the Valley Isle of Maui, your every romantic dream wedding can come true.

To set your dream wedding into reality, it would help if you hire a wedding planner or coordinator who would understand your vision for your wedding. A wedding planner can help organize the entire event--- from catering to wedding cakes to photography and videos to musicians and officiating priest/pastor. They can organize your wedding indoors or outdoors, on horseback, private boats, underwater, on horses, and many more. They can also charter helicopter and private yachts or boats to bring you to secluded wedding or honeymoon locations.

To get married in Hawaii, you need to comply with state requirements. Though there are no requirements for state residence or US citizenship, you need to secure a married license from a state-authorized agent. When applying for a license, both the couple should be present and both should be 18 years and above. If any or both of the couple are below 18, they must present a written parental consent (or consent from legal guardian or from family court).

To get a marriage license, you need to pay $60 upfront during application. You can use the license to get married in any place in Hawaii, but you have to use it within 30 days. Afterwards, the marriage license is considered expired and null.

Why get married in Maui? Not only has Maui a wide selection of beautiful places to set your "I do's." Just as important, Maui has a wide choice of restaurants, caterers, and food at budget-friendly prices. Whether you want to get married in the middle of a beautiful garden, under the sea, on golden beach shores, or in any setting you can think of, you can make your dream wedding into reality at a very affordable price in Maui.