Hawaii residents say they are happy with their lives, yet high costs are pushing nearly half to think about leaving — a mixed signal that is worst for young and lower-income people.

• A University of Hawaii at Manoa survey of 10,000 people found life satisfaction improved since 2024.
• Almost half considered moving out of state in the past year, mostly because living there costs too much.
• Money pressure is the common thread — the less a household earns, the worse the strain.
• People aged 18 to 35, those with less education, and lower earners are hit hardest.
• Getting to doctors and specialists is another major source of stress.

Outlook: Governor Josh Green has signaled continued focus on the issue, but without real relief on cost of living the outflow of young residents is likely to continue.