Living on Maui really does feel like living in paradise with its beautiful beaches, warm weather, tropical breezes, and an island culture that values the spirit of aloha. And as wonderful as it is, it does come with a price, but a price many feel worth paying.
The cost of living is considered high relative to most places on the Mainland. Not everything is more expensive, however, especially when you compare it to an area you are used to. 
Consumer Goods are generally more expensive because they are shipped from the Mainland and prices need to reflect those shipping costs. For items you cannot find on Maui, thank goodness for Amazon.com where you can find a lot of products at low mainland prices WITH free shipping!
I like to shop at Safeway for the bulk of my groceries and although full priced items are more expensive than what you would normally find on the Mainland, the store does offer the same great discounts, making it much more affordable.
Property taxes for primary homeowners are very low. Currently they are $2.00 per one thousand dollars of net taxable assessed valuation of the real property. In addition, there is a homeowner exemption, which makes your property taxes even more affordable. That is very good, especially comparing it to California's high tax rates! The tax rates are higher for part-time residents and time share owners, however.
Utilities, such as water and electricity, are higher than what most people are used to. According to Maui Electric Company, the average electric rate for Maui in a residential area, was 37.12 cents per kilowatthour. To help offset the higher rates and to take advantage of the generous tax credits, many people on Maui have installed solar water heaters. We had one installed on our home and love it!
Water rates are also a bit higher. Click here to see the rates.
Other utilities, such as telephone, cable, and internet are pretty comparable to mainland rates, in my opinion.
Gas prices on Maui are some of the highest in the nation. Currently the average price per gallon is $3.30, but down considerably from a year ago by almost a dollar! Gas prices vary by location and will be more expensive in the more remote areas.
Hawaii State Tax rates range from 1.4 to 8.25 percent, and which is based on 9 income brackets. 
Kamaaina rates are great! Once a resident, you take advantage of some great discounts at restaurants, stores, golf courses, and other recreational activities! The discounts are usually advertised, but don't be afraid to ask if there are offered. You will usually be required to show your Hawaiian driver's license for proof of residency (or State ID card). And although you are not required to obtain a hawaiian drivers license once you move here (as long as your out-of-state license is current) it is advisable to apply for it through a written driver's test so that you can take advantage of theses Kama'aina discounts.
There is a price to pay for living on paradise, but for many, a price worth paying!
If there are any topics I have missed that you have questions about, please let me know!
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