Policy Analyst Jobs in Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, Hawaii$133,400 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Policy Analyst Jobs in Honolulu

Looking for a Policy Analyst job in Honolulu? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Policy Analyst in Honolulu, HI.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Honolulu has a strong job market for Policy Analysts. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Policy Analyst Salary in Honolulu

Entry Level
$86,020
Median
$133,400
Senior Level
$190,440

Policy Analyst salaries in Honolulu are 84% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in Honolulu is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Policy ResearchData AnalysisWritingStakeholder EngagementCritical Thinking

Policy Analyst Job Market in Honolulu

Honolulu, HI is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Policy Analyst professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Honolulu offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Tourism and Defense sectors create robust demand for Policy Analyst talent. The market for Policy Analyst positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Policy Analysts in Honolulu

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Policy Analysts in Honolulu include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Policy Analysts in Honolulu

Living in Honolulu as a Policy Analyst means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (184% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Policy Analyst salary, housing is quite affordable at 16% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

184
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Policy Analyst in Honolulu

Honolulu Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Policy Analysts in Honolulu: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Policy Analyst professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Hawaii

Hawaii has relatively high state income taxes. A Policy Analyst earning $133,400 might pay approximately $10,672 in state income tax. However, Hawaii's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Policy Analysts

The job outlook for Policy Analysts in Honolulu is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Honolulu offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Policy Research, Data Analysis, Writing, Stakeholder Engagement.

Relocating to Honolulu

Honolulu has a very high cost of living. Many Policy Analysts negotiate relocation packages or sign-on bonuses to offset moving costs. Hawaii has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Policy Analyst salary in Honolulu, HI?

The average Policy Analyst salary in Honolulu, HI is $133,400 per year. Entry-level Policy Analysts typically start around $86,020, while experienced professionals can earn $190,440 or more. The national average for Policy Analyst roles is $72,500.

How many Policy Analyst jobs are available in Honolulu?

Honolulu has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Policy Analyst professionals. Major employers hiring Policy Analysts include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Tourism and Defense sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Honolulu a good city for Policy Analysts?

Honolulu is an solid choice for Policy Analysts. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's tourism industry creates strong demand for government & public sector professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Policy Analysts in Honolulu?

Top skills for Policy Analysts in Honolulu include Policy Research, Data Analysis, Writing, Stakeholder Engagement, Critical Thinking. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Policy Analysts in Honolulu?

Honolulu's cost of living is significantly above the national average (184% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Honolulu is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Policy Analysts in Honolulu?

Honolulu Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Government & Public Sector Jobs in Honolulu