Hawai‘i in Motion

Hawai‘i in Motion is a study conducted by Kamehameha Schools to explore the reasons why Native Hawaiians and other Hawai‘i residents leave, return, or remain in Hawai‘i.

Nearly half of Native Hawaiians no longer live in Hawai‘i, with this percent steadily increasing over the past few decades. In order to understand the individual and systemic factors underlying migration away from the islands, current and previous Hawai‘i residents were invited to share their reasons for moving, staying, or returning to Hawai‘i. These stores illuminate the connections and dynamics of policies, relationships, resources, power, and values within our state that contribute to, or deter families from, voluntarily or involuntarily moving away. Collectively, these voices support uplifting abundant communities in Hawai‘i in which all Hawai‘i residents thrive.

Reports that explore the effects of various factors on migration decisions.

Eia Hawai‘i, he Moku: Exploring Native Hawaiian Patterns Past to Present

This report discusses Native Hawaiian migration from a cultural perspective by exploring historical accounts of migration, migration theories, and existing research on Native Hawaiian migration experiences.

Moemoe Aku i Mua: Educational Pursuits and the Decision to Leave Hawai‘i

This report examines education, compulsory and post-secondary, as a factor influencing the decision to leave or stay in Hawai‘i. Education is a decision many face after high school graduation and a key driver of outmigration from the islands.

Shifting Sands and Economic Currents Affecting the Decision to Leave Hawai‘i

This report examines the economic forces, such as job and career opportunities, higher income and financial stability, cost of living, and housing and homeownership, that influence decisions to leave or stay in ka pae ‘āina o Hawai‘i.

Why Residents Leave Hawai‘i: A Look at Economic Conditions Across the Decades

This infographic takes a closer look at how economics, education, social ties, and other experiences and opportunities afar influence decisions to leave Hawai‘i across time.

Ka Huaka‘i

Migration trends among Native Hawaiians are discussed in Chapter 1: Adults, Families, and Communities of Ka Huaka‘i.

Correspondence concerning this study may be sent to:
Wendy Kekahio, wekakahi@ksbe.edu
Shawn Kanaʻiaupuni, skanaiaupuni@pidf.org
Ciera Pagud, cipagud@ksbe.edu