The email I received below is exactly why I created the Can I live in Hawaii? quiz. There are many factors which will affect your time here and that quiz covers the big issues. That said, I felt this email would be helpful for others to read and my responses are in-line:
Me and my wife have recently received teaching jobs in Oahu.
Congratulations!
We have a son that is 6 years old. Our salary schedule says we will both be making $53,611 (which is $107,222 combined household income).
That’s at least enough to keep your head above water but surprisingly, it will be just barely. Still, it’s enough to get started with for sure and if you do well, you’ll make more over time.
I know with taxes and fees there will be a huge amount taken out of our paychecks. With rent costing around 1600-1800 plus all other expenses, will we be okay to live in Oahu?
I think on a financial basis, you’re OK. Hawaii is about more than the money, though. There are many aspects which will affect how you fit in. Take the “Can I live in Hawaii? quiz and let us know what your score is!
I don’t want to put my family in a bind, but we are so ready to move to Hawaii.
It’s a big move for sure. Your son will be in first grade so your really big decision will be what kind of school he attends. You being teachers will be very interesting and I wonder what you will decide on. If you choose public school, then you’ll really have to be mindful of the neighborhood you live in or apply for what’s called a “District Exception” which will allow your son to attend a school out of your district.
Good luck and keep us posted on how things turn out!
My husband and I are both retired teachers. I have 34+ years as a teacher, school counselor. I have worked at both the elementary and secondary levels. I have 3 degrees, B.S.E. Elem Ed., M.S.E, Counseling and Guidance, a Spec. Degree in School Administration. My husband has 35+ years, a B.S.E in Health Ed., a M.S.E. in School Administration, a Spec. Degree In Adult and Continuing Ed., and an Ed. D. in Adult and Continuing Ed. He was teaching college level courses in School Admin. when he retired for Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. All of our certifications have expired. How hard would it be for us to get re-certified in any of these areas? He also has a sporting goods business that we operate out of our home-football helmet reconditioning, sales of sporting goods equipment, sales and installation of artificial field turf, sales and installation of basketball goals. He works with numerous schools across the state. Right now our income is $100,000.00+. What information can you give us?
Need a clear and specific question that I can attempt to answer.
Hello Hawaiian Queen and Peter Kay,
I am very interested in your thoughts as I am currently finishing my masters in education with a special Education credential from USC. I would like to move to Hawaii with my two kids ages 12 and 14. I am a single mom, but do receive alimony and child support . My professor also said there is a lot of Opportunity for teachers . I use to own property and live in Maui part time . Do you think I should move and do student teaching in Hawaii or wait and do student teaching in Southern California ? Any thoughts would be helpful . It’s a big move and a long time dream
Considering Oahu or Maui, Kauai is a last option, but expensive to live .
Thanks so much , Richelle
Suggest you check out several relevant videos on my YouTube channel to help you think through that decision. LMK what you think of them.
Aloha, I am a Napa, mother native, father white. All the islands need Special education teachers! I retired from a mainland Sped H.S. job. I moved to Oahu after getting a call from Hawaii DOE. The paid my relocation and give me extra to stay. Love the children, love being home.
Excellent!