Statewide Survey Reveals Improved Hawaii Quality of Life

A newly released quality of life survey conducted across Hawaii indicates that more residents are satisfied with their lives than two years ago. However, the survey also highlights persistent concerns over the high cost of living, limited healthcare access, and mental health challenges, especially in Hawaii County.

Survey Background and Methodology

The quality of life survey, a collaboration between the University of Hawaii and the governor's Office of Wellness and Resilience, was launched in 2024 and conducted for the second time in 2026. This year’s survey included 10,000 respondents from across the state, aiming to provide a comprehensive snapshot of residents’ well-being.

Key Findings: Life Satisfaction on the Rise

According to the survey, 88% of residents reported feeling very or somewhat satisfied with their lives, a significant increase from 82% in 2024. "People are healthier, and they are more satisfied with their lives," said Tia Roberts Hartsock, Executive Director of the Office of Wellness and Resilience. She emphasized, however, that other metrics signal areas for concern.

Cost of Living Drives Considerations to Move

Despite improvements in overall life satisfaction, nearly half (46%) of respondents said they had considered leaving Hawaii within the past year—a rise from 40% in 2024. The cost of living emerged as the leading reason, cited by 37% of those considering a move. This sentiment was particularly strong among households earning $25,000 to $49,000, where 52% reported contemplating relocation.

Mental Health Varies by Age

The survey revealed that younger adults reported more frequent mental health challenges. Respondents aged 18 to 34 experienced around eight mentally unhealthy days per month, compared to five or fewer days among those aged 65 and older. This trend raises concerns about mental health burdens faced by Hawaii’s younger population.

Healthcare Access and Geographic Disparities

Access to healthcare emerged as a particularly acute issue in Hawaii County, where 39% of respondents said they have major concerns about seeing doctors and accessing medical facilities. By comparison, only 14% of respondents in the City and County of Honolulu shared these worries. Additionally, 51% of Hawaii County participants considered moving within the past year, higher than the statewide rate.

Trends in Food Insecurity and Disaster Preparedness

Reports of food insecurity declined from 11.6% in 2024 to 8.5% in 2026 overall. However, in households earning less than $25,000, 27% still reported not having enough food. The survey also found an increase in residents’ confidence in disaster preparedness, with 23% feeling prepared, up from 12% previously.

Local Economy and Resident Retention Worries

Carla Kuo, Executive Director of the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce, highlighted economic concerns, noting that the combination of high living costs and limited career opportunities continues to challenge resident retention and the local economy. She called for "practical solutions, including more housing options, better access to healthcare, workforce development, and support for local businesses."

Policy Implications and Future Outlook

Jack Barile, Director of the UH Manoa Social Science Research Institute and principal investigator of the survey, expressed cautious optimism about the trend toward improvement. "The majority of the kind of responses in the survey, they are largely positive and moving in the right direction," Barile said, while underscoring the need for systemic changes to further reduce the burdens of affordability and healthcare access.

The complete survey results are available online at health-study.com.

Source: westhawaiitoday.com.