📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Hilo CDP and Los Angeles
Head-to-Head Analysis
Hilo CDP vs Los Angeles
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Hilo CDP | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $78,713 | $79,701 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.2% | 5.5% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $455,100 | $1,002,500 |
| Price per SqFt | $null | $616 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $3,570 | $2,006 |
| Housing Cost Index | 221.9 | 173.0 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 189.1 | 107.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.98 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 234.0 | 732.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 34% | 39.2% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 24 | 52 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Here is the ultimate head-to-head showdown between Los Angeles and Hilo CDP.
Los Angeles vs. Hilo: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
You’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, the glittering, sprawling, cutthroat beast that is Los Angeles. On the other, the lush, slow-moving, island-time rhythm of Hilo, Hawaii. It’s a classic case of Big City vs. Big Island, and the decision isn't just about a ZIP code—it’s about a complete lifestyle overhaul.
As your Relocation Expert, I’m not just going to spit out numbers. I’m going to tell you what it feels like to live in each place. We’re going to break down the vibe, the wallet, the roof over your head, and the day-to-day grind. Grab your coffee (or a Mai Tai), and let’s settle this.
The Vibe Check: Fast Lane vs. Island Time
Let’s cut to the chase. These two places aren't just different; they are opposites.
Los Angeles is a sprawling, 500-square-mile concrete jungle where ambition is the currency. It’s a city of transplants chasing dreams—whether that’s in entertainment, tech, or art. The culture is high-octane, diverse, and relentless. You’re constantly surrounded by noise, energy, and the palpable pressure to "make it." It’s for the hustler, the networker, and the person who thrives on endless options for nightlife, food, and culture. If you get bored in LA, it’s your own fault.
Hilo CDP (Census Designated Place) is the antithesis. It’s the largest city on the wet, volcanic East Side of the Big Island. Think lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and a pace of life dictated by the tide. The vibe is deeply rooted in ‘ohana (family) and respect for the land (‘āina). It’s quieter, more community-focused, and while there’s a tourism industry, it doesn’t define the city like it does in Waikiki. Hilo is for those seeking a connection to nature, a slower pace, and a tighter-knit community. It’s for the person who wants to trade rush hour traffic for a drive to a waterfall.
Who is it for?
- LA: The career-driven, the culture vultures, the extroverts who need a city that never sleeps.
- Hilo: The nature lovers, the remote workers seeking serenity, the families wanting a grounded, outdoor-centric childhood.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Scream?
This is where the rubber meets the road. You might be looking at similar median incomes—$79,701 in LA vs. $78,713 in Hilo—and thinking it’s a wash. Think again. The cost of living tells a different story, and it’s a story of sticker shock.
Let’s look at the cold, hard numbers for a single person.
| Expense Category | Los Angeles | Hilo CDP | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $2,006 | $3,570 | SHOCKER. Hilo rent is nearly 78% higher. Yes, you read that right. |
| Utilities (Monthly) | ~$180 | ~$400+ | Hawaii has the highest electricity rates in the nation. Expect a hefty bill. |
| Groceries | +30% above nat'l avg | +50% above nat'l avg | Everything in Hawaii is shipped in. Expect to pay a premium for milk, bread, basics. |
| Housing Index | 173.0 (73% above avg) | 221.9 (122% above avg) | Hilo is significantly more expensive than the national baseline than LA is. |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
Here’s the brutal truth: your $100,000 salary feels drastically different in each city.
In Los Angeles, $100k will get you a decent, but not luxurious, life. After California’s high state income tax (ranging from 1% to 13.3%), you’re taking home roughly $72,000. With rent at $2,006 (~$24k/year), you still have about $48,000 for everything else. It’s tight, but doable. Your purchasing power is limited by the high cost of goods and services.
In Hilo, that same $100,000 feels like it’s evaporating. Hawaii has a state income tax with a top marginal rate of 11%, but the real killer is the cost of living. Your take-home pay is similar, around $73,000. But your rent is a staggering $3,570 (~$42.8k/year). That leaves you with only about $30,000 for the rest of the year. Suddenly, that grocery bill, the gas for your car, and a night out become serious budget items.
Verdict on Money: While LA is expensive, Hilo is a different league of expensive. The "island tax" on goods and housing is massive. If you’re on a fixed or modest income, Hilo’s cost of living is a potential dealbreaker.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
This is where the data gets fascinating and reveals a critical insight.
Los Angeles: The High-Cost, High-Competition Market
- Buying: The median home price is a jaw-dropping $1,002,500. To afford this, you’d need an income of well over $250,000 and a massive down payment. It’s a brutal seller’s market where bidding wars are the norm. You’re buying a piece of a global city, but you’re paying a premium for it.
- Renting: With rents at $2,006 for a 1BR, renting is often the more accessible option, but competition is fierce. You’re competing with millions of people for limited space.
Hilo CDP: The Paradox of "Affordable" Hawaii
- Buying: The median home price is $455,100. On the surface, this looks like a steal compared to LA. And it is—if you’re coming from the mainland with a mainland salary. This is why Hilo has seen an influx of remote workers and retirees. However, the local median income of $78,713 makes this price point a stretch for many locals. It’s a market being pulled in two directions: local affordability vs. mainland investment.
- Renting: This is the real head-scratcher. The median rent for a 1BR is listed as $3,570. This is astronomically high for a city of its size and income level. The rental market is incredibly tight due to limited land, zoning restrictions, and a high demand from tourists and workers. Buying is often the smarter financial move if you can swing the down payment, as your monthly mortgage could be lower than your rent.
Verdict on Housing: If you have capital and can secure a mortgage, buying in Hilo offers better long-term value and stability than renting. In LA, buying is a luxury for the very wealthy, while renting is a competitive necessity.
The Dealbreakers: Traffic, Weather, and Safety
Traffic & Commute:
- Los Angeles: This is legendary for a reason. The average commute is long, stressful, and unpredictable. A 10-mile trip can take an hour. Your car is a second home. Public transit exists but is not comprehensive.
- Hilo: Traffic is minimal. You can cross town in 15 minutes. The main "commute" might be to a neighboring town or the airport. The stress level is near zero. Verdict: Hilo wins, easily.
Weather:
- Los Angeles: 54°F average. It’s famously sunny and mild, but it’s also dry. Summers can hit 90°F+ inland, and Santa Ana winds can create fire danger. There’s very little humidity.
- Hilo: 73°F average. It’s paradise—warm, tropical, and lush. But it’s also one of the rainiest cities in the U.S. It rains a lot. Humidity is constant. You’ll own more rain jackets than suits. Verdict: It’s a preference. Do you crave dry sun (LA) or lush, warm rain (Hilo)?
Crime & Safety:
- Los Angeles: Violent Crime: 732.5/100k. This is significantly higher than the national average. Crime varies wildly by neighborhood, from extremely safe to areas you avoid.
- Hilo: Violent Crime: 234.0/100k. This is below the national average and dramatically lower than LA. It feels, and is, much safer. You can walk around at night with far less concern.
- Verdict: Hilo is the clear winner for safety. The data doesn't lie.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Heart (and Wallet)?
After dissecting the data and the lifestyle, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families: Hilo CDP
Why: The combination of lower violent crime, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community is ideal for raising kids. The access to outdoor activities—hiking, swimming, stargazing—is unparalleled. The public school system is decent, and the small-town feel means kids can have more independence. The high cost of living is the major hurdle, but for families who prioritize safety and nature over urban amenities, Hilo is a paradise.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Los Angeles
Why: Career opportunities in LA are in a different universe. Networking, entertainment, tech, and creative industries are thriving. The cultural scene, nightlife, and sheer variety of experiences are unbeatable. You’ll meet more people, have more date options, and be at the center of the action. The cost of living is high, but the potential for career growth and social life justifies it for many.
Winner for Retirees: Hilo CDP
Why: This is Hilo’s sweet spot. The slower pace, warm weather, and stunning natural beauty are perfect for retirement. The lower violent crime rate provides peace of mind. While the cost of living is high, retirees often have fixed incomes from pensions or investments, and many have saved enough to handle the housing market. The sense of community and the focus on well-being over hustle make it a top-tier retirement destination.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Los Angeles: The Dream Factory
Pros:
- Unmatched Career Opportunities: A powerhouse economy in multiple sectors.
- Incredible Diversity & Culture: Every cuisine, festival, and community is here.
- Endless Entertainment: From concerts to museums to world-class dining.
- Mild, Sunny Weather: The classic LA climate is a huge draw.
Cons:
- Brutal Cost of Living: High rent, high taxes, and expensive goods.
- Chronic Traffic & Long Commutes: A daily reality that drains time and energy.
- Competitive & Fast-Paced: Can be stressful and isolating.
- Significant Crime: Requires vigilance and neighborhood research.
Hilo CDP: The Natural Sanctuary
Pros:
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Rainforests, waterfalls, volcanoes, and black sand beaches.
- Slower, Healthier Pace of Life: Emphasis on community and outdoor living.
- Very Low Violent Crime: A safe environment for all ages.
- Minimal Traffic: Easy commutes and stress-free driving.
Cons:
- Extremely High Cost of Living: The "paradise tax" is real and severe.
- Limited Job Market: Fewer career opportunities outside tourism, healthcare, and education.
- Isolation: Far from mainland U.S. and the rest of the world.
- Rain & Humidity: It’s a wet, tropical climate that isn't for everyone.
The Bottom Line:
Choose Los Angeles if you’re chasing a career, crave urban energy, and have the financial means to handle its price tag. Choose Hilo if you’re prioritizing safety, nature, and a slower pace of life, and you have a secure income (like a remote job or retirement) that can withstand the island’s high costs. Your decision isn't just about a city—it's about what you value most in this chapter of your life.