One Of America's Most Expensive Retirement Communities Is An Island Retreat In Hawaii

Nestled in the balmy breezes of the Pacific, Hawaii is a collection of stunning islands featuring peaceful beaches along with a warm climate. The islands are interwoven with beautiful scenery, native wisdom, relaxed lifestyles, and interesting history connected to Polynesians.There are many reasons why it might appeal as a retirement destination.

Oahu is the island where roughly 90% of the population of the 50th state lives. This paradise is a safe haven full of retiree friendly amenities and attractions, and the island's unique blend of respect for heritage and a modern infrastructure appeal to many seniors.

Pearl City on Oahu is a popular retirement destination for seniors. An unincorporated community, it lies along the north shore of the storied Pearl Harbor. With a population of over 47,700 people, Pearl City falls within the Ewa District and City. The top facilities and welcoming communities both here and nearby all help to explain why Pearl City is one of the most expensive retirement communities in America today. If you are planning to spend your golden years here, it helps to know the three stocks to invest in today that could have the biggest returns in retirement.

With Pearl City featuring in some Top 10 lists as among the most expensive retirement communities in America, retirees might wonder what the special appeal is to this locale on Oahu. The friendly enclave itself is conveniently located as a suburb of state capital Honolulu, for starters. Despite its relatively high cost compared to many retirement destinations, the Pearl City utilities, groceries, and transportation costs compare favorably to many other locations in the Hawaiian state, according to World Atlas.

Community atmosphere is on display in Pearl City with plenty of activities and facilities that appeal to seniors. The town's main retail attraction is the Pearl City Shopping Center. With its combination of stores and dining options, retirees will find plenty of places to enjoy a high quality daily life.

Still more activities found around Pearl City include the wonders of Honolulu and surrounding area day trips. Residents have so many choices close by to enjoy. They can take in the Waikiki mid-century architecture and see the Iolani Palace of the Hawaiian monarchs, watch humpback whales migrate, and partake of the farmers' markets with their vibrant, tropical tastes and sights.

Retirees will be naturally interested in the availability of healthcare in the Pearl City area. With 25.1% of the population made up of residents 65 and older, the town does not disappoint in this regard. Pali Momi Medical Center offers general to specialized care for seniors. Along with 24 hour service emergency care, it boasts advanced MRI and CT imaging as well as specialists in fields of cardiology, orthopedics, and cancer treatment. Nearby Honolulu offers more health care facilities and hospitals, and Hawaii is not one of the states with the cheapest assisted living costs for seniors.

The costs of living in Pearl City are high compared to many American states but low relative to other places in Hawaii. Average Pearl City home values in 2024 were $967,106, according to 401k Specialist Magazine. This made for an average yearly mortgage cost of $61,084. Combined with expected yearly homeowner expenses it amounts to $89,695.

Other yearly costs of living are similarly high here. Utilities average around $7,549. Seniors typically spend $6,701 on their groceries. Healthcare here is not cheap either, coming in at an average annual $7,668 for retirees. The price of living in paradise is understandably high.