Insurance Underwriter Salary in Hawaii
The median insurance underwriter salary in Hawaii is $132,362 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $77,860.
Insurance Underwriter Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for insurance underwriter compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for insurance underwriters seeking high pay. At $132,362 per year, insurance underwriters in Hawaii earn $54,502 more than the national median of $77,860.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $132,362 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $77,860.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: insurance underwriters at the 10th percentile earn $82,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $214,880 — a $132,260 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 $136,255.
Nationally, insurance underwriter employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced insurance underwriters with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Insurance Underwriter Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level insurance underwriter earns around $85,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,500 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 | $82,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,040 |
| Median (50th) | $132,362 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $214,880 |
Insurance Underwriter Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for insurance underwriters 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 Insurance Underwriter in Hawaii
Education
Most insurance underwriter positions require a bachelor's degree. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, insurance underwriter employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Insurance Underwriters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $63,138 over your career trajectory.
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