Cost of Living in Kauai County, HI

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Kauai County? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $12,088 per year — combining federal taxes with Hawaii's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($2,332/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Kauai County metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $29,928, or roughly $2,494 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Kauai County represents approximately 40% of gross income. That is well above what most financial advisors recommend, indicating that Kauai County is a financial stretch at a $70,000 salary without roommates or a higher-earning household.