Buying Property in the US

America is not only a continent but also three major regions “attached” to it: Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Alaska. All belong to the United States, yet they feel like entirely different worlds. Here you can buy real estate and step into an eternal summer paradise, a tropical island with carnival energy, or a cold, crystal‑clear land of ice and northern lights.

This article compares what Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Alaska each offer in terms of buying property - from prices and taxes to lifestyle and investment prospects.

How are these three regions different?

Before talking about cost per square foot or mortgages, it’s important to understand that each of these places has its own character.

Notice this: Hawaii and Puerto Rico are oceanic islands where everything arrives by sea or by air, while Alaskan life often starts on the mainland and then flows into the state, usually through major hubs like Anchorage.

Hawaii: property as life between ocean and mountains

Hawaii is the place people dream of when they imagine their “end‑game” life after career success. Whether you live on Oahu, Maui‑style Maui, or untouched Kauai, everyone chooses their own comfort level.

How much does housing actually cost?

• Central Honolulu areas (especially Waikiki) often range from 400–600+ USD per square meter and higher if you want an ocean view.

• Less touristy parts of the islands (North Shore, rural Maui, Big Island neighborhoods) come with more “grounded” prices, but still among the most expensive real‑estate markets in the US.

• Many people who move to live comfortably focus less on condos and more on land and private houses, buying lots or homes outside the main hubs.

Can you live by renting there, or does it make sense only for investment?

• One common myth: “Hawaii is perfect for short‑term rentals.” It’s true the market is hot, but everything is pushed up:

  • Short‑term rentals (Airbnb) – tightly regulated, with restrictions in tourist zones.

  • Long‑term rentals – there is often a shortage of homes because many properties are geared toward short‑term stays and offshore or private investment.

In Hawaii, buying real estate genuinely makes sense as residence plus long‑term rental, but you should keep in mind:

• Property taxes (usually above the national average).

• Property management companies, especially if you cannot live there full time.

The logistics of shipping people and cargo to and from the islands are special, so it helps to work with Hawaii Movers who know how to handle customs‑style policies, air freight, and the tight scheduling of move‑in dates.

Puerto Rico: tropical paradise with American‑style mortgages

If Hawaii feels like “overpriced exotic luxury” and Alaska like a “cold test,” Puerto Rico sits in the sweet spot: Caribbean climate, American flag, and more affordable prices.

How is the real‑estate market there today?

In 2026, Puerto Rico has long stopped being just a beach destination. It’s now a serious real‑estate spot for investors, digital nomads, and American retirees (often benefiting from local programs like Acts 20‑22 and tax incentives).

What types of purchases are most common?

• A small building for rent in San Juan - a classic move for newcomers.

• A beach‑front house on the north or northwest coast - for surfers, beach lovers, and vacation‑focused buyers.

• A fixer‑up property  - popular because many homes were damaged by past hurricanes and are now being rebuilt or converted.

When you decide to buy property in Puerto Rico, it’s also worth thinking about logistics on the day‑to‑day: how will you get your things onto the island, and who will set up your house in a way that respects the climate and community rules? Many investors and new residents use Movers to Puerto Rico services specifically designed for island relocations.

Alaska: when real estate is about choosing a lifestyle

Alaska is simpler and more complicated at the same time. People here rarely buy just for a view. Those who move there usually have a clear reason: work, love of nature, personal freedom, or fascination with the northern lights.

What is the real‑estate market like?

• In larger towns like Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Palmer, you find a mix of options - from modular homes to suburban houses.​

• In remote areas, many buyers focus on raw land and then build modular homes or cabins.

• Prices vary wildly:

  • Anchorage is closer to the level of northern mainland states, without Hawaii‑scale prices.

  • In very remote areas there can be surprisingly cheap offers as well as premium projects (eco‑communities, luxury cabins).

Moving to Alaska is more than choosing a new home - it’s adapting to seasons, weather, and geography. That’s why many families and professionals choose an experienced Alaska Moving Company that understands winter roads, weight limits, and long‑haul transport from the lower 48 states.

Side‑by‑side comparison of the three

To better understand, let’s put everything in one table.

Who is each destination best for?

If we simplify it, you can match profiles like this:

Hawaii suits you if you:

• Want a direct ocean view and are ready to pay for beauty and status.

• Work remotely or spend part of the year in another state.

• Plan to combine living with short‑term rentals, but accept local regulations.

• Use Honolulu Movers for a smooth island relocation.

Puerto Rico suits you if you:

• Love year‑round sun, Caribbean culture, and a festive island atmosphere.

• Want lower taxes while staying under the US legal umbrella.

• Are ready to tackle renovation projects or buy “under the radar” properties for rental or business.

• Prefer using professional Movers to Puerto Rico services for cross‑sea transport and setup.

Alaska suits you if you:

• Don’t fear the cold and you value wide open space and peace above comfort.

• Enjoy an active, outdoor way of life - skiing, hiking, fishing, and hunting.

• Are okay with isolation and extra logistics in exchange for a unique quality of life.

• Trust a professional local Movers Anchorage to handle the winter move.

How to buy offshore US property without major mistakes

Once you decide which destination you want (Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Alaska), it’s wise to follow a few basic steps.

1. Define the purpose of the purchase:

   • Live there permanently.

   • Live there seasonally.

   • Rent it out for profit.

   • Use it as a private retreat or backup “exit” plan.

2. Look into jurisdiction and mortgages:

   • In Hawaii and Alaska you generally use standard US mortgage products.

   • In Puerto Rico the same FHA/VA systems apply, but there are local nuances in typical down payments and property types.​

3. Check infrastructure carefully:

   • In Hawaii and Puerto Rico transportation, internet, utilities, and rental management are key.

   • In Alaska heating, winter fuel, and supply chains to Anchorage or Fairbanks may decide everything.

4. Assess the risks:

   • Hurricanes and climate exposure in Puerto Rico, where markets can spike after disasters and then cool.

   • Price cycles and potential corrections in Hawaii due to speculative bubbles.

   • Surprise costs in Alaska like transport, maintenance, and winter readiness.

Final thoughts: where to find your own piece of America overseas

Buying offshore US real estate is not just investing in square footage - it’s choosing a style of life. Puerto Rico gives you music, beaches, rich local food, and a slightly different rhythm under the American flag. Hawaii offers grand ocean views, volcanoes, and a unique kind of prestige. Alaska grants space, silence, long days and nights, and a rare kind of freedom that few places can match.

If you can wake up there in the morning and genuinely be happy to start the day, owning a slice of America across the ocean - through Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Alaska  - might be the perfect move for you.