One thing I hear that a lot of people new to the island say they have a hard time adjusting to is the lack of space to get away. They get a version of island fever you just cant get in your car and drive for a weekend getaway. Our version is going to the neighbor islands, but with the increase in inter-island airfares, its gotten to be pretty expensive.
Youve heard how expensive the cost of living is. As an example, a gallon of milk is over $5 unless its on sale. Gallon of the cheapest grade of gas at Costco is about $2.20. Traffic is bad. The rental housing market is really tight, and to purchase is very expensive. However, the cost of living and housing issues can be said about many areas in the U.S.
I cant really say about your husbands job prospects, as I dont know what field hes in. Actually, even if I did know, I dont know if I could say.
However, a recent topic of discussion is what the local papers have described as the brain drain referring to college graduates originally from Hawaii that decide to stay on the mainland or relocate to the mainland for better job prospects. Its probably a more complex issue of cost of living vs. job prospects.
I believe the people here to be friendly and welcoming. Hawaii is a true melting pot of many cultures and theres also the island culture that really doesnt have to do anything with one particular ethnic group. At first you may notice some things that are different than from the mainland and some of these things may be a little frustrating. Just be open and accepting of these differences and youll be fine.
If youve considered all these points and still decide to make the move its a great place to live. Weathers great and the diving is easy.
I grew up here, then lived on the mainland for about 8 years. Now that Im back, I cant think of anywhere else that Id rather be.