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Expat Exchange > Hawaii

Hawaii

  Coastal   Beaches  

Hawaii, the 50th state of the United States, is a unique archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is composed of hundreds of islands spread over 1,500 miles, with the eight main islands being Hawai'i, Maui, O'ahu, Kaua'i, Moloka'i, Lāna'i, Ni'ihau, and Kaho'olawe. Known for its lush landscapes, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii is a melting pot of ethnicities and traditions, which is reflected in its diverse cuisine, language, and customs. The state's economy is primarily driven by tourism, with millions of visitors drawn to its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and iconic landmarks such as the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and the historic Pearl Harbor. Hawaii's natural beauty extends from the crystal-clear waters to the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, and up to the high peaks of its volcanic mountains, such as Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The state's climate varies from tropical in the lower elevations to arctic at the summits of the highest peaks, creating a range of environments for a variety of outdoor activities. Despite its paradise-like setting, Hawaii faces challenges such as environmental threats, a dependence on imported goods, and a high cost of living due to its remote location. Nevertheless, the Aloha Spirit—a sense of warmth and friendliness—is a hallmark of the Hawaiian way of life, making it a welcoming place for both residents and visitors alike.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Hawaii is among the highest in the United States, largely due to its remote location and reliance on imported goods for many necessities.

Weather

Hawaii has a tropical climate with considerable variations in weather across different regions and elevations. The islands experience warm temperatures year-round, with coastal areas typically seeing highs in the 80s°F (27-32°C). There is a wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October, although regional variations can be significant. The higher elevations can be much cooler, and some mountain tops even receive snowfall.

Educational System Hawaii

The educational system in Hawaii is unique in that it is the only state with a single, unified state school district. The Hawaii Department of Education oversees all public schools in the state, providing education to over 180,000 students. Education in Hawaii is compulsory for children from the age of 5 until 18, or until they graduate from high school. The grade levels are similar to those on the mainland, starting with kindergarten, followed by elementary school (grades 1-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). Students typically start kindergarten at the age of 5 and graduate from high school at around 17 or 18 years old. Hawaii's public schools offer a standard American curriculum, but they also place a strong emphasis on local culture and history, including the Hawaiian language and traditions. Private schools are also available and offer various educational philosophies and curricula. The state has a diverse student population and provides various programs to cater to different needs, including special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), and gifted and talented programs. Parents moving to Hawaii from another country can expect a welcoming environment for their children, with schools that strive to incorporate multicultural perspectives and a spirit of 'Aloha.'

Best Places to Live in Hawaii
Discover the top-ranked towns in Hawaii. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.
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