How does the cost of living in Kihei compare to the U.S. average?

Kihei’s cost‑of‑living index is 165, meaning expenses are about 65 % higher than the national average (which is indexed at 100). This higher index is driven by housing, groceries, and transportation costs typical of island communities. With an average salary of $62,000 per year, a single household would need to allocate a larger share of income to rent and daily expenses than on the mainland. Planning a budget that caps housing at roughly 30‑35 % of gross income and accounting for higher food and utility costs will help determine affordability. State tax agency and cost‑of‑living calculators can provide personalized estimates.