If you want to relocate to a city with a rich suburban feel and close proximity to several beautiful beaches, then relocating to Pearl City is your best bet.
Pear City is in the County of Honolulu on the Island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. It has a population of a little over 47, 000. The island has many amenities you can expect from modern cities, such as restaurants, boutiques, shops, parks, and so much more. But it also gives its residents some space which is why it has become a favourite for retirees and young professionals alike.
If you are looking into moving to Pearl City, this guide will help you with the pros and cons of living in Pearl City, so you can see for yourself if this city fits you.
1. Prepare To Adjust For Island Living
You can find Pearl City in Hawaii, which is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. If you are a fan of long road trips, you will need to adjust to island living. Oahu is the 3rd largest island in Hawaii and has 597 square miles.
However, if you love the beach, you are in the right place. The climate on the island is very agreeable. The summers are hot, dry, and humid, while the winters are comfortable. Pearl City is windy for most of the year, thanks to the ocean breeze, with temperatures ranging anywhere between 66°F to 87°F, with January being the coolest and August the hottest.
2. Get To Know The Neighbourhoods Before Deciding Where To Settle Down
When moving to a new city, choosing which part of that city to live in is equally important. Depending on what the vibe you like, proximity to amenities, nightlife, or the beach, every community has something unique to offer.
Take the time to review the locations and see which one is best for you. The best thing about Pearl City is that it is central to the island, so it’s a great start-off point to go anywhere. You can choose to live in condominium units if you like living in a high-rise building with amazing views of the city, or you can opt to live in the suburbs where you can have more space but know that you will need to pay extra.
3. Learn To Budget And Adjust To The Cost Of Living
Pearl City scores high when it comes to livability. The place is beautiful, and it has several services and amenities that are close by. Still, thanks to the limited space and somewhat remote location, the cost of living in Pearl City is a bit high. On average, the cost of living in Pearl City is almost 59% more than the national average.
According to a recent census, between 2016 to 2020, the median household cost in Pearl City is over 691,900 USD. This is even higher than the national median household price. Rent prices are also higher in Pearl City, with the median rent price starting at 2,044 USD. Rent prices can go as high as 5,000 USD for a three-bedroom close to the city centre.
Aside from high housing costs, energy costs are roughly 30% more expensive in Pearl City. While food and transportation are still larger than the national average but only about 7 to 8%. Healthcare, however, is much cheaper in Pearl City, and thanks to the excellent service, you won’t need to worry too much when you get sick.
4. Find Your Way Around The Island By Familiarising Yourself With The Local Transportation
When you want to figure out how to find your way in a new city, riding public transport is one of the best ways to do so. In Pearl City, mass transport is handled by TheBus. TheBus serves the whole island of Oahu, so it’s also your best bet if you want to visit other areas on the island.
You’d also be glad to know that you can download the Moovit application to make it easier for you to track the availability of the bus as well as updates in schedules. Another option for real-time monitoring is the DaBus app which is similar to Moovit, but it is directly connected to the Oahu Transit Services, which is the operator of TheBus buses.
You should also take note that Pearl city is not highly walkable, as there are limited sidewalks and bike lanes, so it is almost essential that you learn to find your way around the city.
5. Join The Workforce In One Of Pearl City’s Leading Industries
Now that you are living in Pearl City, you might want a job as expenses in Pearl City are a bit high. In a census between 2016 to 2020, the median household income was 101,517 USD which is considerably high.
To date, the industries that employ the most people are Health care, public administration, and retail. Which combined employ over 7,200 people. However, if you are looking for the highest paying jobs, that would be in the industries of Utilities which has an average yearly income of 82,000 USD. Up next are Public Administration and Construction, whose annual income is, on average, 61,000 USD.
It is interesting to note that the economy of Pearl City employs over 20,000 thousand people, nearly half of its population, with only 4% considered living in poverty.
6. Try The Local Cuisine And Discover New Favourites
If there’s one thing that’s a net positive when living in a new place, it’s the chance to discover new places to dine. Food is a great way to experience the culture of a new place, not to mention a way for you to connect with people and even make new friends.
Once you’ve settled down in Pearl City, here are some restaurants we suggest and what to try on their menus.
- Cherry On Top for some frozen yoghurt
- Button Up Cafe for some juicy ribs
- Poke On Da Run for some delicious fast food
- Leonard’s Malasada Mobile Wagon for someone of a kind flavour and sweetness
- La Tour Cafe for some American and French flavours
7. Make Connections With Local Expat Communities
Now that you are settled in the city, you might want to socialise and make some new friends. But that’s not so easy; not only are you new, there could still be a culture shock that’s making it difficult for you to put yourself out there. Don’t worry. That’s what expat groups are for.
You will find that there are available groups and forums that you can look into that facilitate social activities. Most expat groups will host events you can join, especially when it coincides with local festivals or events. It’s a great way to connect with people in the same boat as you, and it will be much easier to find common things to which you can relate to.
If meeting people at events is a little intense, you could also join online groups and forums in the meantime. Some websites and groups are made for you to be able to connect with fellow expats. You can ask or answer questions, get updates on local events, chat with other people, and maybe in time, you can join in the actual in-person meetings. Who knows, you might be inclined to host a meeting in the future!
8. Activities You Can Have Fun With In Pearl City
Seeing as Pearl City is in Hawaii, you already know there won’t be a shortage of gorgeous beaches. That’s why we thought it would be better to highlight some activities that aren’t necessarily on the beach but still deserve mention.
So, if you have a free weekend where you want to have some rest and relaxation with your friends and family, here are our suggestions.
- Waimano Pool and Ridge trails if you fancy a hike.
- Oahu Urban Garden Center to learn all about gardening
- Sea Spa for some luxury pampering
- Waiau Gardens Mini Park is a great stop, especially if you have kids
- Tsue’s Farm for some paddle boarding and yummy snacks
9. Engage With Professionals To Help You Handle Your Belongings
Travelling is already a difficult process to go through, but when you are moving to an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, it can get stressful. That’s why you will need an experienced partner that can assist you in your relocation.
Sanelo has years of experience in helping people achieve their dreams of moving to their desired cities. Whether moving locally or relocating internationally, Sanelo will be there with you every step of the way. You’ll also be glad to know that your belongings will be protected with Sanelo’s shipment protection, and you won’t need to worry about carrying your heavy luggage around. You’ll get to enjoy your flight stress-free.
Just call or email us, and one of our representatives will be glad to assist you from application to requirements and offer advice that’s unique to your needs.
Conclusion On Moving/Relocating To Pearl City
The pro of moving to Pearl City is a long list. The city is beautiful, the people are friendly, and there are amazing opportunities for work, all the while having several avenues for some rest and recreation.
There are amazing neighbourhoods that can cater to those who like to want to be closer to the downtown or take their space in the suburbs. If you are a fan of the beach, there is no shortage of pristine waters to have fun in. But at the same time, there are so many other attractions and activities that you can do. Not to mention restaurants and shops that dot the island offering excellent products and services.
Pearl City is truly a gem. If you see yourself living there, engage with Sanelo today so we can start planning your relocation!
If you’re not quite sure yet and want to learn more, check out our guide for Hawaii, or other states like California, Ohio, and Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving To Pearl City
Is It Expensive To Live In Pearl City?
Yes, the cost of living in Pearl City is roughly 59% more expensive than in the rest of the country, especially regarding housing costs.
What is Pearl City known for?
Pearl City is probably most known for the site of the Pearl Harbour attack, which was a significant historical moment during World War II.
Is Pearl City Safe?
Yes. According to crime demographics, Pearl City is safer than the average US city, ranking in the 80% percentile. This means, in the United States, Pearl City is safer than 80% of the country’s cities.
How Soon Do I Need To Engage With Sanelo Before My Trip?
It is suggested that you engage with Sanelo at least 3 months before your intended travel date to allow ample time for preparations.Just call or email us and a representative will be glad to assist you.
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