The 2024 State of ALICE in Hawai‘i Report, published in January 2025, by Aloha United Way in partnership with the Bank of Hawai‘i Foundation, provides an updated analysis of the financial challenges faced by Hawai‘i households, particularly those classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). These households earn above the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare.
This year’s report highlights the cost of living factors driving outmigration, signaling the need for systemic change so that Hawai‘i families may remain in Hawai‘i.
Key Findings from the Report:
- The percentage of households below the poverty line decreased to 12% (from 14% in 2022). 29% of Hawai‘i families remained in the ALICE category.
- More than a third (37%) of Hawai‘i households have considered leaving Hawai‘i because of high living expenses.
- 27% of Hawai‘i households worry about being forced to move within the next year, increasing to 41% among ALICE families.
- Almost half (46%) of ALICE households struggle to afford food, compared to 28% of all households in Hawai‘i.
- More than half (53%) of Hawai‘i residents under 35 years old fall below the ALICE threshold.
- The number of ALICE households in Maui County has increased by 9% since 2022, largely due to the impact of the August 2023 wildfires.
