The 50th state has long been one of America's most coveted travel destinations, but its capital is now Honolulu is also making waves as the most desirable place to live in the country. For the second year in a row, the Hawaiian city tops the rankings Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Quality of Life Index as the highest ranked American city.
The Economist Group's research division analyzed living standards in 173 cities, taking into account 30 factors in the following categories: infrastructure; stability; health care; education; culture; and environment. Honolulu ranks 23rd in the world (up from 25th last year), but is the top U.S. city in the ranking.
In particular, the city scored well in infrastructure, stability and education compared to other U.S. cities.
Combine these essential lifestyle factors with a average summer daytime temperature of 85 degrees and winter temperature of 78 degreesand the island's natural beauty, from the waters of the Pacific Ocean to impressive craters, including the popular Diamond Head, and life is truly easy.
But above all, it is “the spirit of aloha — a warm hospitality found nowhere else — and a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries” that make island life so appealing. Local Hawaiian and Travel + Leisure Contributor Kathleen Wong says.
That said, daily life in paradise comes at a price. The state also ranks first in the ranking of countries with the highest cost of living. Recent study by Forbes Advisor Analysis Given its pristine and isolated location, many goods have to be imported.
But for visitors who want a taste of the good life, the destination has plenty to offer. In fact, T+L readers even nominated Honolulu one of the best American cities according to the annual World's Best Awards survey for 2024coming in at #4. As one reader put it: “The people are the friendliest I’ve met in all my travels, and the culture is fascinating.”
