Half of Hawaii residents have thought about leaving the islands because living there costs too much, which is bad news for young people and Native Hawaiians with deep family roots.

• A new University of Hawaii survey of 10,000 residents found nearly half have considered moving away.
• Young adults are the most likely to leave, with rent and home prices the biggest reason.
• Native Hawaiian students say they want to stay and give back but can barely afford to support themselves.
• Life satisfaction and health actually improved from last year, so cost is the main thing pushing people out.
• The study calls for more affordable housing, higher pay, and better job benefits.

Outlook: Officials want to broaden Hawaii's economy and train workers for better-paying jobs to slow the loss of young talent, but costs are not expected to ease soon.