State comparison
California vs Hawaii
A sourced, side-by-side look at taxes, home insurance context and climate risk — so you can judge the trade-offs of moving from California to Hawaii for yourself.
General information, not tax advice. Confirm current rates with the linked sources or a tax professional before you decide.
| Category | California | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|
| State income tax | Progressive income tax with one of the highest top marginal rates in the country.Source: California Franchise Tax Board | Progressive state income tax with a high top marginal rate.Source: Tax Foundation |
| Sales tax | State sales tax plus local district add-ons; combined rates vary by city/county.Source: Tax Foundation — sales tax rates | No traditional sales tax, but a general excise tax applies broadly to goods and services.Source: Tax Foundation |
| Property tax | Property taxes are capped by Proposition 13 and generally assessed near 1% of purchase price plus voter-approved add-ons.Source: Tax Foundation — property taxes | Property tax rates are among the lowest in the country, though home values are very high.Source: Tax Foundation |
| Homeowners insurance context | Wildfire risk has pushed some insurers to limit new homeowners policies in parts of the state.Source: California Department of Insurance | Hurricane, lava and wildfire risk vary significantly by island.Source: Hawaii Insurance Division |
| Climate risk context | Elevated wildfire and earthquake risk statewide, with drought and heat risk in inland areas.Source: FEMA National Risk Index | Hurricane, wildfire and volcanic risk depending on island.Source: FEMA National Risk Index |
Sources
General information, not tax advice.