Comparing salaries in Honolulu with the mainland (utilities, living)

[mdand3boys]

They probably only considered mainland cities for a fair comparison.

[jmlowman]

Originally Posted by Dmalofy

America's Most Expensive Cities - Forbes.com

Look at this site to determine the most expensive cities. Honolulu isn't even mentioned.

Actually, it was ranked #4, behind NYC, LA and Miami.

[mdand3boys]

That study was from July 2008. I still cannot fathom how LA was more expensive to live in than Honolulu?

[SOON2BNSURPRISE]

From the City Data main site listing the information of cities in each state it shows that Honolulu is more expensive to live than in LA.


Los Angeles, Cost of living index is 166.4 where the US average is 100

Honolulu, Cost of living index is 180.2

Los Angeles mean home prices for all units: $712,322 (2008 numbers)
Medium gross rents: $1,056

Honolulu mean home prices for all units: $711,041
Medium gross rents: $1,181

[dwedeking]

That study was from July 2008. I still cannot fathom how LA was more expensive to live in than Honolulu?

Highly speculative housing market, high gas prices and long commutes, outrageous tax rates.

[mdand3boys]

Originally Posted by dwedeking

Highly speculative housing market, high gas prices and long commutes, outrageous tax rates.

Doesn't sound any different than Honolulu, except gas prices and rent are even higher in Honolulu. Taxes aren't too far behind either.

[eksotia]

Originally Posted by jmlowman

Actually, it was ranked #4, behind NYC, LA and Miami.

wow... I can hardly believe Miami is #3... I used to live in downtown Chicago and renting 2BR condo with no amenities and no view, I paid the same like now in Miami with concierge and all amenities, ocean view, including valet parking for the 2nd car.

[Dmalofy]

Originally Posted by mdand3boys

That study was from July 2008. I still cannot fathom how LA was more expensive to live in than Honolulu?

Have you been to LA??? 2k for a studio or a "one bedroom" which is really a studio. c'mon now

[Dmalofy]

Originally Posted by jmlowman

Actually, it was ranked #4, behind NYC, LA and Miami.

still don't see honolulu mentioned...

[mdand3boys]

Dmalfoy - I have lived in downtown Chicago - McClurg Court apts. Furnished studio on 20th floor was $2400 month in 1998. Still, Honolulu beats that today based upon overall pricing.