Hawaii Named One of the Best Places in the US to Raise a Family

What pops in your mind when you think of Hawaiʻi? Palm trees, sunsets, and the soothing sound of waves. However, a recent national report claims that Hawaiʻi is not only a nice place to visit, but is one of the best in the country for raising a family.

In the recently published report on family well-being per state, Hawaiʻi ranked #5, landing in the Top 5 for the highest praise. For islanders, the findings are not shocking and truly illuminate the core of what makes a location a home.

Researchers developed the Family Happiness Index, a “report card” of sorts and also a type of Family Happiness Index. In essence, it studied the conditions under which families flourish and the factors that promote family success, specifically in the context of the US: Divorce rates, Family-friendly policies regarding childcare and infant care as a percentage of family income. Average household size Happy Child Index which is a proxy for the health and welfare of children in families.

The origins of the data were from the CDC and the World Population Review which helped to anchor the research.

Why Did Hawaiʻi Rank So High?

The numbers tell a powerful story. The only place in the US where divorce rates are 1.53 per 10 marriages (the lowest in the country) is Hawaiʻi. That kind of stability is rare in today’s fast-paced world.

And the average household size in the state? 2.8 people. That is larger than the average of the country which reflects the value of ‘ohana (family) in Hawaiʻi. Grandparents, aunties, uncles, and cousins live together or within close proximity. Despite the fact that the full details of the Happy Child Index were not made public, Hawaiʻi, alongside the other US states, had strong outcomes relating to the health and well-being of children.

It’s Not Just About the Money Family happiness is, as the report states, something that is more strikingly gained from others, nevertheless with or without the earnings. The high cost of living in Hawaiʻi in which the groceries, houses, and gas are expensive is a living example of such a place.

The spokesperson of the report also said it best: 'Family happiness tends to correlate with social support, outdoor lifestyle, and community values much more than with financial considerations."

What Makes Hawaiʻi Special for Families?

Close-knit communities: From the neighborhood potluck to school fundraisers and beach clean-ups, there’s nothing Hawaiʻi loves more than a good get-together. Outdoor lifestyle: Kids have the privilege of growing up with an abundance of sunshine, sand, and lots of activities. Cultural values: Shared meals, respect for elders, and the spirit of aloha are an integral part of the everyday.

Hawaiʻi’s place in the top five reminds us that family happiness can be built on strong relationships, culture, and community support, not just material wealth. In a world that most often views progress as a dollar sign, it is a refreshing reminder that much of what is worth anything can’t be purchased. As such, whether you live in Hawaiʻi or are dreaming of it, there is no denying the islands have a lifestyle much more than a postcard can show: a lifestyle that promotes family, happiness, and connection.

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