The postcard version of paradise is easy to imagine: Ocean breezes at breakfast, golden-hour walks along the beach, and sunny weekends all year long. Across the U.S., cities like Honolulu and Hilo, HI; San Diego, CA; Charleston, SC; and Austin, TX continue to attract those seeking scenic views, a slower pace, or a second act by the water.  

But under the surface of these dreams is a more practical question — what does it actually cost to live in paradise? 

High demand meets high prices

Hawaii and California top the list as the most expensive states for everyday living.¹ The reasons range from limited land and high shipping costs to insurance premiums on the rise. The result? High demand meets higher prices. And yet, the dream is strong, particularly for retirees and remote workers with some financial flexibility. For many, it’s not just about affordability, but choosing a setting that matches a vision.

According to Empower research, 24% of Americans say access to warm weather is essential for a happy retirement. And 23% want to be closer to the ocean. Cost still matters — 38% say affordability is a top factor when deciding where to retire, and 42% are open to moving to a different city or state when the time comes. 

Read more: Home sweet home: A majority of Americans want to age in place

Living the dream, by the numbers

Source: Redfin 

Housing prices vary based on locale

In places where the views rarely change, housing prices certainly do. Payscale data shows that Honolulu leads with a median home price of $1.6 million, while San Diego follows at $1.1 million, and Hilo comes in at $737,000.² Renters face steep costs as well, averaging $4,822 in Honolulu, $3,255 in San Diego, and $2,239 in Hilo.³

Not all cities with palm trees and pool weather are at the top of the cost charts. Places like Austin, Phoenix, Orlando, and Charleston offer more accessible options, with median home prices between $500,000 to $575,000 and rents ranging from $1,500 to $1,750.⁴  

Read more: Cracking the code on cost of living 

Everyday costs reveal the fine print

The real cost of living in paradise often comes down to the essentials. For example, San Diego’s cost of living is 45% higher than the national average, due in part to the high cost of housing but also because of basics such as utilities and food.⁵ The average monthly energy bill in San Diego is $343, 66.5% higher than the national average of $206, according to Redfin.⁶

In Honolulu, the cost of living is 87% more than the national average, fueled in part by limited local food production. Residents pay monthly energy costs averaging $529.⁷ In Honolulu, a loaf of bread averages $5.64 and a gallon of milk is $5.49.⁸ In Hilo, eggs are $9.75* a dozen and one box of cereal averaging $10.68.⁹

Gas prices follow suit. Drivers in Honolulu pay an average of $4.58 for a gallon of gas, and in Hilo, it’s $4.93, same as in San Diego.^10,11,12 Charleston and Orlando, however, are at $3.03 and $3.34, respectively, and in Austin it’s only $2.98.^13,14,15 For car-heavy lifestyles, those differences add up quickly.

Austin, Charleston and Phoenix offer lower energy bill monthly averages, at $196, $250, and $232, respectively.^16,17,18 Keep in mind that energy costs can spike during the hot summer months. 

Healthcare costs impact the bottom line

Healthcare is another consideration. A routine doctor’s visit in Honolulu averages $202, compared to the national average of $144, and a trip to the dentist is $127, compared to a national average of $118.¹⁹ In Charleston, it’s $99 to see a dentist and $124 to visit a doctor.²⁰

Even visiting an optometrist is something to consider. In Honolulu, it’s an average of $259, compared to $104 in Phoenix.^21,22

These aren’t just outliers — they reflect the broader infrastructure and service dynamics of high-demand locations. 

Read more: The 10 best places to retire in Florida 

Lifestyle perks, priced accordingly

Paradise offers more than scenery. Local culture often includes fresh food, outdoor fitness, boutique gyms, and wellness-centered living — but all of it comes at a premium. Gym memberships in Honolulu average $58 per month, compared to $29 in Charleston.^23,24 Dining out in Honolulu typically costs $22 per person at casual spots, higher than the $18 average in Austin.^25,26

Yet for many, the appeal of yoga by the water, fresh citrus at the market, or walking trails that begin at the back door are worth the expense. 

Read more: How empty-nest homes fit into the housing equation 

Balancing lifestyle goals with budget

Cost of living is only one side of the equation. For those weighing a move to paradise, the real consideration may be alignment — between lifestyle goals and long-term sustainability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Hawaii and California consistently top regional price parity indexes, meaning that everyday dollars don’t stretch as far.²⁷ But cities like Phoenix and Charleston continue to offer an appealing mix of affordability, climate, and community.

While the dream is alive and well, the ability to live it depends on more than sunshine. Looking beyond real estate listings to include groceries, utilities, and healthcare paints a fuller picture of what it takes to thrive in paradise.