College Professor Salary in Hawaii
The median college professor salary in Hawaii is $142,596 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $83,880.
College Professor Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for college professor compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for college professors seeking high pay. At $142,596 per year, college professors in Hawaii earn $58,716 more than the national median of $83,880.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $142,596 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $83,880.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: college professors at the 10th percentile earn $76,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $285,600 — a $209,100 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $146,790.
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for college professors across the country.
College Professor Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level college professor earns around $81,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $272,000 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Hawaii
| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $76,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,000 |
| Median (50th) | $142,596 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $285,600 |
College Professor Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for college professors in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a College Professor in Hawaii
Education
Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows College Professors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $129,404 over your career trajectory.
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