When you consider relocating to or traveling abroad, one of the things you need to arrange is your budget. Some of the countries you plan to visit may be more expensive than you think.
If you’re curious about the most expensive cities in the world, keep reading this list.
The List of the Top 10 Expensive Cities
Mercer publishes a Cost of Living City Ranking twice a year. In this index, cities are ranked according to certain criteria. Some of them are the costs of food, housing, and transportation. In total, the index reviews more than 200 criteria.
You can find the top 10 expensive cities in Europe and other areas below, according to Mercer’s 2022 report. Let’s start.
1. Hong Kong
As a continent, Asia is already the most expensive area in the world with many cities including Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, more than seven million people live in the city. It’s also an attraction point for expats and wealthy business people. What makes Hong Kong one of the most expensive cities in the world is the nightlife, markets, and attraction points.
2. Zurich
Located in Switzerland, Zurich is the second most expensive city in the world. In terms of house renting, it’s also the most expensive city in the country. The cost of living in general is also high. On average, an individual pays $2,000 for rent, which maakes Zurich one of the expensive cities in Europe. If you consider living here, you can find many job positions. Also, the net pay is very high in Zurich.
3. Geneva
Geneva is another Swiss city that’s among the most expensive cities to live in Europe. General expenses in this city are usually high. Such expenses include rent, transportation, and food. It also has luxurious shopping places and cafes. Still, many people from other countries choose to reside in Geneva. Surprisingly, near half of the residents in Geneva are not from Switzerland. The standard of living here is high. On average, monthly expenses cost around $3,500
4. Basel
Located on the Rhine River, Basel is the oldest university city in Switzerland. Every June, the city also holds the largest art market in the world. Here in Basel, you can enjoy modern architecture and history by walking among the buildings. It’s also a green city where you can enjoy the parks, oases, and sports. On average, the basic cost of living in Basel is around $3,000.
5. Bern
Bern is another one of the most expensive cities in Europe to visit. It’s also the capital city of Switzerland. Like Basel, Bern also boasts the architecture of its buildings and its history. What’s more, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Options for housing here are rich, and the average monthly cost of living is around $2,500.
6. Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is the largest city in Israel, and it’s famous for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches. It’s also a very tourist-friendly city, yet, as you can expect, it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world. Especially rents are quite high in Tel Aviv.
7. New York City
New York is another popular city that both tourists and Americans choose to visit. It’s also chosen for the work opportunities that the city provides. Also, it’s the only North American city that’s ranked on this expensive cities list. The city assures you to have a wonderful time with the available entertainment events as well.
8. Singapore
In Singapore, property prices for both renting and purchase are quite high. The most important reason for this is that there’s a lot of demand for real estate. As a result, the market becomes competitive. Still, expats and digital nomads prefer to move here because of its financial hub status.
9. Tokyo
Ranked among the most expesive cities in the world, Tokyo has expensive rents. Also, transportation is expensive in Japan’s capital city. Despite these high expenses, the city provides a friendly environment and a rich culture.
10. Beijing
In Beijing, rental prices are high for both locals and expats compared to the other cities in China. When you move a bit far away from the city, the amount of rent drops. It’s still a more affordable city compared to other Western cities.
So, there you have it: the most expensive cities in Europe and other continents. You can now prepare yourself for your next vacation after getting a brief information about such countries.
