California to Hawaii: 11,000 Movers Head for Island Life

from Storage Cafe, Feb 25, 2025

Hawaii saw a migration turnaround in 2023, gaining 4,900 net residents—a stark contrast to the 13,800 residents lost in 2022, according to our latest StorageCafe study. While the state’s high cost of living remains a challenge, more people are choosing to move in rather than out, with young professionals leading the way, drawn to the state’s unique lifestyle.

Who’s moving to Hawaii?

Millennials (31%) and Gen Zers (30%) making up the majority of newcomers. Additionally, 35% of all movers hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reinforcing Hawaii’s appeal to skilled workers despite its higher living costs.

Homeownership remains a challenge in Hawaii, with only 28% of newcomers purchasing a home within their first year. In contrast, 41% of those who leave the state become homeowners soon after relocating.

Where are they coming from?

California-to-Hawaii migration surges: 11,000 Californians moved to Hawaii in 2023, reversing a trend where Hawaii used to lose more residents to California. Among them, 36% became homeowners, despite high real estate prices.

Other sources of new residents: Washington claims second place with 4,600 movers, while Texas takes third with 4,100 movers.

Moving away from Hawaii?

Hawaii’s outbound podium tells a familiar story: California and Washington share the top spot, each receiving 7,300 former Hawaii residents, while Texas takes third with 5,500 movers. With significantly lower housing costs in all three states, former Hawaii residents are finding it easier to buy homes—especially in Washington, where a whopping 56% of movers from Hawaii achieve homeownership shortly after relocating.

You can explore our full migration study here: https://www.storagecafe.com/blog/us-interstate-migration-trends/.