Moving From Hawaii to California

Why Hawaii residents move to California

California is the shortest hop: family ties, direct flights to many airports, and the ports where most Hawaii freight lands. People often choose it for career range, not savings — costs in coastal metros can rival Honolulu.

Cost of living: California vs. Hawaii

Expect coastal metros to be as expensive as Honolulu or more; inland areas such as the Sacramento region and Inland Empire are where many households find relief.

Income tax: Graduated, top rate 13.3% plus 1.1% SDI on wages. Sales tax: 7.25% statewide base plus local district taxes.

Climate shock

Ranges from mild coastal fog to inland heat above 100°F and real snow in the Sierra. San Diego and coastal Southern California are the gentlest change from island weather.

Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community

The largest Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander population outside Hawaii lives in California, with deep roots in Southern California, the Bay Area and Sacramento.

Jobs

The widest job market of any destination — tech, healthcare, logistics, government, defense and entertainment.

Getting your things there

Most household goods arrive at Long Beach/Los Angeles or Oakland.

Neighbor-island goods ride a barge to Honolulu first. See the shipping guides for timing.

First steps after you arrive

• Get a CA driver's license and register your car — check the deadline with California DMV — new residents.
• Understand your first-year tax filing with California Franchise Tax Board.
• File a part-year resident return in Hawaii for the year you leave.