Hawaii is most people’s dream location, and for good reason. It’s home to the most endangered species in U.S, sun drenched beaches, and the highest life expectancy in the country. The best part is that it has a lot to offer regarding Jobs.
So not only is the place not naturally beautiful, it has a lot of cool animals you will find nowhere else and job opportunities are also very high. But, if you are planning to relocate here, it’s important to have an idea of the best jobs here with very good pay. In this article, we will be introducing the top ten highest-paying jobs in Hawaii, along with important tips for job seekers. Let’s get into it.
Table of contents
Advantages of Working in Hawaii
#1. Good Health Care Benefits:
Hawaiians have the highest life expectancy in the nation. The state is 50th in death and accidents, 49th in cancer and heart disease deaths, and 45th for per capita stroke death.
They also boast a contemporary health-care system. This is complete with cutting-edge equipment in hospitals throughout the state.
In addition to that, there are innovative steps to address critical concerns such as universal access to health care and addiction. The State of Hawaii provides competitive paid time off, comprehensive health coverage, and innovative retirement programs.
#2. Conducive Climate:
Hawaii’s climate is very pleasant. In the milder months, the average temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26° C), Even their summer temperatures rarely exceed 90 degrees (32° C). Due to this, residents enjoy outdoor sports and activities all year.
They even participate in watersports during winter. Hawaii’s apparel expenditures are significantly lower than those of temperate regions. The islands are kept cold all year by prevailing trade breezes and moderate rainfall.
#3. Beautiful Environment:
Another cool thing about this island is its beautiful environment. It has gorgeous beaches, mountains, and different types of landscapes. This makes it an ideal place for both business and recreational activities. Low humidity, moderating trade winds, and no industrial pollution contribute to Hawaii’s air quality being the best in the nation.
Hawaii’s water is pure and sufficient for the state’s domestic, commercial, and agricultural requirements. The islands’ porous lava rock filters water in a 25-year cycle from rain to tap.
Due to its stunning beauty, hundreds of films and commercials are made here. They utilize Hawaii’s stunning landscapes. Also, their statewide land management system demonstrates the state’s concern and dedication to environmental conservation.
#4. Education:
Hawaii is a hub for higher education and research. Organizations such as the East-West Center, Japan-America Institute of Management Science, the University of Hawaii’s School for Travel Industry Management and Center for International Business Education and Research have gained global recognition.
Hawaii is at the forefront of national research in astronomy, oceanography, and earth science. The state of Hawaii established the first statewide after-school program in the country.
The “A+ Program” enables working parents to focus on their professions while knowing that qualified professionals are effectively caring for their children.The elementary and secondary public education systems in Hawaii are administered by the state government.
The state ensures that everyone receives equitable funding while removing school district government and the requirement for property taxes or municipal resources to fund education.
Disadvantages of Working in Hawaii
#1. High Cost of Living:
The cost of living in Hawaii is much greater than anywhere else in the US. This is especially true when it comes to housing, food, and transportation. Sustaining the high cost of living is a daily ordeal for most Hawaii families.
To make ends meet, many people work two jobs. Those who remain, however, have determined that heaven is worth the cost. Even though tourism-related occupations are available, they may not necessarily pay well enough to sustain you in this high-cost-of-living state.
According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, an adult without children in Hawaiʻi needs to earn $27.33/hour to make ends meet. This doesn’t include expenses for dining and recreation. Unfortunately, there are many jobs that pay less than that amount.
#2. Job Market Competition:
To thrive in Hawaii’s competitive job market, the number one thing you have to do is apply for some opportunities with an outstanding application. You should also have someone trustworthy for recommendations. For professional careers having someone to introduce you is very important.
Personal connections are utilised by employers. Getting a job in Hawaii is challenging if you lack contacts. This competitive labor market can make it difficult for certain citizens to find jobs that are in line with their career goals.
This goes further to impact the overall earning potential of those who do work. Before relocating to Hawaii, people considering a relocation should conduct research on the work market to make sure there are sound career opportunities in their area of expertise.
#3. Traffic Congestion:
One of the possible downsides to living in Hawaii is traffic, especially in major metropolitan areas like Honolulu. As a small geographic land mass with more people relocating to Hawaii, traffic is a serious problem during rush hours and weekends.
This can lead to longer trips and more stress for the individuals who need to drive through congested traffic. Moreover, the cost of vehicle ownership and upkeep in Hawaii may be considerable due to import charges and gas prices.
#4. Natural disasters:
Residing in Hawaii exposes you to threats of natural disasters. This includes crazy things like hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Why this happens is because the island’s location is in the Pacific Ring of Fire. This is an area of high volcanic and seismic activity.
And that’s not all, due to its tropical climate there are destructive weather conditions. We are talking about such cases as excessive rains, flooding, and landslides. Although the emergency management within the state is reliable, natural calamities are inescapable and destructive.
They may be destructive to properties, leading to death, and leading to extensive disruptions to lives. Preparation of how to vacate your home during emergencies is crucial to your safety.
Tips for job seekers in Hawaii
Here are some valuable tips for job searchers in Hawaii:
#1. Get to know possible employers and the organisation
Before applying, research the company to learn about what they do and who they are. Try to better understand the company culture.
It is also crucial to compare your skills (and, if necessary, strengthen your soft skills) to what they are searching for. Make sure to highlight these on your CV.
#2. Write an engaging cover letter and redefine your CV if necessary
Don’t emphasize stating job responsibilities in your CV. It must include information that explains why you are an excellent candidate.
It is critical to demonstrate how you have been doing the duties in ways that distinguish you from other applicants. When writing a cover letter and evaluating your resume, make use of action verbs and related phrases.
#3. Make attractive and professional social media profiles.
Many hiring managers prefer to review applicants’ social media profiles to assess their qualifications and whether they are a suitable fit for the role and their qualifications. With that in mind, you should develop social media profiles on many platforms using relevant terms or keywords to demonstrate your expertise.
Display your email address and/or phone number so that management can easily contact you. Include nice images that clearly show your face so that companies will readily remember you when you go for an interview.
#4. Practice for an interview.
Many candidates are dismissed before they ever have an interview. Others must go through many interviews before receiving a single job offer. Whatever the case, it is a good idea to practice your replies and look up the company’s rating ahead of time.
Try to figure out what types of interviews they conduct. See if you can find out what type of applicant tracking system they use.
Depending on the role, you may be required to submit a sample of your previous work. Never disparage former employers or speak negatively about them. That paints a very negative impression of your character.
Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs In Hawaii For 2025
Here are the 2025 top ten highest paying jobs in Hawaii:
#1. Neurologists
- Salary Range: $333,000 to $415,600, with an average annual pay of $362,262
A neurologist is a physician who specializes in the treatment of the central and peripheral neurological systems. You can see them in hospitals, clinics, and some of them have their own private practices. Patients are given neurological examinations. They are then diagnosed, treated, and referred for further investigation when necessary. .
On a daily basis, a neurologist has numerous crucial work responsibilities. First, they assess patients and look into neurological illnesses and ailments. Then, they provide a prognosis and investigate therapy possibilities. A neurologist’s responsibility is to speak with patients and their families about treatment options and potential negative effects.
While being treated, a neurologist will order tests, review data, modify treatments, and closely monitor patient improvement. The good news is that Hawaii lacks neurologists. So if you are one, this is a great opportunity for you.
But if you are not, you can consider the career path. The first step is to graduate medical school and obtain a medical degree. This degree should have a specialty in neurology. State and federal licenses are also required.
In some situations, an aspiring neurologist may be needed to get an Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) certification. This certificate training helps prepare the candidate for abrupt, severe changes in patient condition.
Becoming a neurologist is one of the most challenging and prominent career options in Hawaii’s medical labor market. The whole process requires years of continuous training and great expertise.
In Hawaii, neurologists are a key part of the health-care industry. They conduct high-level brain and spinal surgeries that save lives. With such privilege comes monetary compensation. However, neurologists’ wages in Hawaii has a wide range. It is affected by experience, geography, and positions within hospitals or clinics.
#2. Orthodontist
- Salary Range: $259,700 to $389,100, with a yearly average income of $321,456
An orthodontist is not just any type of dentist. They are specially trained to treat abnormal teeth and jaws. When patients approach these doctors they come with problems involving misaligned jaws or overflowing teeth.
Orthodontists conduct visual checks and X-rays to evaluate dental conditions. They then suggest appropriate treatment plans. For example, an orthodontist can advise patients to wear braces to fix misplaced teeth.
As with many professions, becoming an orthodontist is not easy. You will need to complete many educational programs and degrees. Successfully passing all the requirements means you have the information and skills required to become a qualified orthodontist.
The following are the criteria for orthodontic school:
- High School
- Undergraduate university
- Dental school
- Orthodontic specialty education
#3. Veterinarian
- Salary Range: $51,400 to $305,500, with an annual median wage of $171,900
A vet is specially trained to administer medication to animals. They tend to offer medical care for pets at home but can work in institutions such as zoos to deal with non-domesticated creatures.
Diagnostic examination enables the veterinarian to diagnose and treat most illnesses using medicines or surgery. Other responsibilities include communication with pet owners and with veterinarian assistants whom they supervise. Veterinarian also have one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii.
As of 22nd March 2025, a average annual salary of a Hawaii vet is $171,976. If you have to use a simple salary calculator, that converts to about $82.68 per hour. This would correspond to roughly $3,307 per week or $14,331 per month.
To become a veterinarian, you will need to invest very much in education. The first step is to get a bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline. This includes areas like zoology, biology, chemistry, or animal science.
After this first step is completed, you move on to the next step. Here you must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. These programs normally take four years to complete, with two-year portions.
The first two years are primarily classroom work, and the final two years are more hours of hands-on clinical training. Veterinarians are licensed after obtaining the DVM degree.
All states require veterinarians to pass the North American Veterinary Licensing Exam (NAVLE). Some states have extra requirements beyond national licensure, including clinical competency or veterinary law exams.
#4. Psychologist
- Salary Range: $90,900 to #231,700, with an estimated average salary of $160,050
Psychologists work with a wide range of people. This includes couples, children, and families. They help them overcome a wide range of behavioral disorders. They usually work in a team. This includes psychiatrists, physicians, and social workers. All of them play an important role in designing and implementing treatment regimens.
Psychologists help in scientific investigations on behavior and brain function. They can go further to administer tests, and conduct interviews and surveys. This helps them to better understand human psychology. The data they obtain is very important. It’s used to spot patterns, diagnose mental illness, and create effective treatment plans.
Some people use the terms ‘psychiatrist’ and ‘psychologist’ interchangeably, but they are distinct types of medical practitioners. Psychiatrists are medical specialists who specialize in psychiatry after completing the same training requirements as physicians.
They frequently use drugs to treat their patients. Psychologists receive doctorates and specialise in behavioural therapy. They must be licensed but are not authorized to prescribe medications. These professionals has one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii.
#5. Powerapps Developer
- Salary Range: $96,400 to $160,500 with a yearly average income of $132,560
As a PowerApps developer, you use the Microsoft PowerApps Platform as a service suite to create unique business apps that satisfy the needs of your company or numerous client businesses. They can then launch them through the PowerApps application.
Your responsibilities go a long way. It may include creating PowerApps that integrate with different softwares. We are talking about softwares like Google Docs, Oracle, SAP, Dynamics CRM, Microsoft SQL, and other Office 365 productivity tools. These professionals usually don’t work alone. Instead, you work with a team.
This team includes project managers, operations analysts, and subject matter experts. You and your team are responsible for a lot of things. This includes designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining all solutions. You also communicate progress to stakeholders.
Because of the self-service, drag-and-drop capabilities and use of some of Microsoft’s most known processes, working as a PowerApps developer requires little to no coding experience. However, most businesses want at least a bachelor’s degree, some SharePoint experience, and a SharePoint certification.
They also search for PowerApps skills, as well as coding experience in several computer programming languages like HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and XML, which you may apply to other projects. Employers are looking for candidates with full lifecycle experience, programming experience, and experience leading migration project plans, including SharePoint migrations.
#6. Pharmacist
- Salary Range: $60,260 to $160,500, with a yearly average income of $131,600
A Pharmacist is a medical practitioner who is trained to store, handle, prepare, and dispense a variety of drugs. They are also responsible for educating patients about how to administer and use their drugs. Similarly, they are a “final check” to verify that the doses are correct and that a patient will not have any harmful or undesirable drug interactions.
They work at a wide variety of places. This includes community or hospital pharmacies, universities, jails, pharmaceutical firms and much more. These professionals warn patients about potential side effects and may recommend immunizations. And that’s not all, they should also be mindful of the possibility of prescription medication addiction. In addition, pharmacists must grasp insurance coding and how to handle claims for patients.
Beyond pharmacies, they can engage in other healthcare settings, providing patients with medical and wellness information. Pharmacists has one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii. As of March 22, 2025, the average rate per hour for a pharmacist in Hawaii is $63.29 per hour.
In order to practice, all pharmacists are required to have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Undergraduate students who wish to pursue a career in pharmacy can work towards it.
The minimum prerequisite for Pharmacist is a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or a pre-pharmacy program. After that, students must get a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, complete a residency program, and pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE).
#7. Nurse Practitioner
- Salary Range: $112,200 to $155,800, with a yearly average income of $135,370
Nurse practitioners (APRNs) have a lot of responsibilities. They are well trained to provide health-care services. This includes diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses.
To become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) in Hawaii, you must have an active Registered Nurse (RN) license, a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, national certification from an approved organization, and apply for APRN recognition.
These professionals has one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii. As of March 22, 2025, the average salary for a Hawaii Nurse Practitioner is $135,371 per annum. If you are in need of a quick pay calculator, that is roughly $65.08 an hour. That is roughly $2,603 a week or $11,280 a month.
A nurse practitioner is not a doctor, but in some areas, they can work as primary care providers. In these states, they have complete practice authority. This means they can work independently of a doctor’s supervision.
In the remaining states, NPs do not have complete practicing authorization. They require a doctor’s approval to make certain health-care decisions and prescribe medication.
Doctors and nurse practitioners have different education and training. Doctors must attend medical school and obtain a postgraduate degree, such as a doctor of medicine (MD). Doctors spend more time training than nurse practitioners.
#8. Pilot
- Salary Range: $49,900 to $150,500, with a median annual wage of $90,500
Airlines pilots or commercial pilots are responsible for making sure the aircraft, cargo, and passengers are safe while flying. Before the plane takes off, they execute routine maintenance checks, conduct pre-flight analysis, and create flight plans and emergency backup plans.
Although this is one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii, becoming a pilot is not easy. The first step involves completing a comprehensive aviation training. You can do this in two ways. Either you enroll in an aviation academy or join the military.
There is also another option, you can enroll in a local flight school and learn to fly. This way you can earn a private pilot license. On the other hand, Commercial pilots must get a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Its important to note that this requires medical clearance.
Airline pilots must also hold the FAA-issued Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. As of March 22, 2025, the average annual salary for an airline pilot in Hawaii was $90,539 per year. This is around $43.53 per hour. This is comparable to $1,741/week or $7,544/month.
#9. Meteorologist
- Salary Range: $38,400 to $126,700, with an estimated annual salary of $100,000
A meteorologist is a weather scientist. These professionals use advanced mathematical models to forecast daily weather and analyze long-term climate patterns. Their work enables them to inform the general public about impending weather events and assist policymakers.
A meteorologist examines the atmosphere, atmospheric occurrences and how these affect our climate. The requirement to be a meteorologist or climatologist is a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric sciences with courses in general science, math, hazardous weather, and clouds. They are also one of the highest paid professionals in Hawaii.
Meteorology is employed by the National Weather Service (NWS) to forecast the weather and accompanying events. A typical day for a National Weather Service meteorologist consists of examining current conditions, interpreting results from numerical model guidance, issuing forecasts, and monitoring the potential for severe weather.
The National Weather Service makes this information available to government agencies, news programs, research universities, and enterprises whose products or services may be impacted by weather.
#10. Judge
- Salary Range: $185,500 to $236,400, with an average annual pay of $192,600
A judge acts as an impartial referee in court trials. They may oversee a trial on their own or serve on courts with many judges. These professionals assess evidence, hear arguments from all sides, and decide if the defendant is guilty. With such heavy responsibilities it’s no surprise that this is one of the highest paying jobs in Hawaii.
Even when a jury decides the decision, judges play a crucial role in educating jury members about the law and ensuring court order. As a judge, you can serve in state, local, or federal courts.
Outside of the courtroom, you will frequently be responsible for researching to assist you in making solid legal decisions. You assess and read the evidence, records, testimony, and motions related to the cases you preside over.
The requirements for becoming a judge begin with receiving a legal degree and passing the bar test. Judges typically practice as attorneys before advancing to a judicial position, which involves election or appointment.
Judges receive training from the Federal Judicial Center, National Judicial College, American Bar Association, and National Center for State Courts. You must be able to examine evidence and keep up with the laws and other rules on which you base your conclusions.
Excellent communication and leadership abilities are also required to transmit information and keep your courtroom organized. Judges of the Hawaii District Courts are appointed by the state supreme court’s chief justice.
To serve on this court, a judge must be a citizen and resident of the state and the United States, as well as have five years of legal practice in the state. This position requires a mandatory retirement age of 70.
Frequently Asked Questions
A lot of people struggle to find work. Jobs exist in specific career fields. If you’re a waiter-waitress, nurse, or other healthcare worker, or if you’ve worked in the travel business, you’ll most likely be able to find work in Hawaii. Otherwise, most people have a difficult time finding work.
Applicants must be US citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens, or meet the requirements of federal law for unrestricted work in the US.
Full-time employment in Hawaii typically ranges from 35 to 40 hours a week. However, it is crucial to remember that this is not specified in the law.
Hawaii’s minimum wage is $14.00 per hour, $6.75 higher than the federal minimum of $7.25. Tipped employees may be paid less than the minimum wage as long as the total income from wages plus tips is at least $7 more than the minimum wage.
Occupational groups with the highest employment in the Urban Honolulu area included office and administrative support (13.2 percent), food preparation and serving related (12.0 percent), and transportation and material moving (8.2 percent).
Conclusion
To qualify for high-paying employment in New York City, you must demonstrate to prospective employers your attention to professional development and unshakable commitment to quality.
There are several methods to accomplish this, including seeking additional certifications, extending your education, or acquiring particular abilities that distinguish you in your area. By always seeking to improve and expand your skills, you may position yourself for success in one of the world’s most competitive job markets.
References
- ziprecruiter.com: 25 of the Highest Paying Jobs in Hawaii
- indeed.com: 44 Highest-Paid Jobs in Hawaii
- manoa.hawaii.edu: Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs
