Hong Kong, Singapore most expensive cities to live in the world; where do Mumbai & Delhi stand?

According to Mercer's cost-of-living data report, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Zurich are the most expensive cities for international workers in 2024, maintaining their positions from last year. The cities with the lowest living costs are Islamabad, ...

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Hong Kong, Singapore and Zurich are currently the costliest cities for international workers in 2024, according to Mercer’s cost-of-living data report. These three cities have maintained their positions in Mercer's rankings from the previous year. On the other hand, the cities with the lowest living costs are Islamabad, Lagos, and Abuja.

In addition to Hong Kong and Singapore, the other most expensive cities in Asia include Shanghai (23), Beijing (25) and Seoul (32), as per the report.

Some of the least expensive cities in the region are Karachi (222), Bishkek (223) and Islamabad (224).


The report analyzed 226 cities, comparing the cost of over 200 items in each location, such as transportation, food, clothing, household goods, and entertainment.

Meanwhile, Mumbai is the highest Indian city taking 136th place, while the national capital, Delhi moved up 4 spots to 165th place.

Other Indian cities that feature on the list include Chennai (189), Bengaluru (195), Hyderabad (202), Pune (205) and Kolkata (207).
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Expensive housing markets and increased costs for transportation, goods and services are among the reasons why the cost of living in the top ranking cities is particularly high, as per the report.

European cities feature heavily in the top 10 most expensive places to live. In addition to the four Swiss cities, London has joined the top 10 ranking in 8th place. Other expensive cities in the region include Copenhagen (11), Vienna (24), Paris (29) and Amsterdam (30).

The two most affordable cities are Lagos (225) and Abuja (226), both located in Nigeria (on the African continent), the report says.

Dubai has risen in the rankings to become the most expensive city in the Middle East for international employees, now placed 15th globally, up three spots from 2023. The second most costly city in the region is Tel Aviv, which has fallen eight places to 16th. Following Tel Aviv are Abu Dhabi at 43rd, Riyadh at 90th, and Jeddah at 97th.
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10 most expensive cities for expats
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According to Mercer's 2024 cost-of-living data, half of the top 10 most expensive cities for international assignees are in Western Europe, with Switzerland hosting four of them. Nevertheless, it is cities in Southeast Asia that dominate the rankings, with Hong Kong and Singapore retaining the first and second positions, respectively.

According to Mercer's 2024 cost-of-living data, half of the top 10 most expensive cities for international assignees are in Western Europe, with Switzerland hosting four of them. Nevertheless, it is ..
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For top-tier cities like Hong Kong, factors such as costly housing markets, expensive transportation, and higher prices for goods and services have collectively driven up the cost of living, as per the report. The overall cost of living in the city is notably high, reflecting its status as a major global financial hub with a correspondingly high standard of living.



For top-tier cities like Hong Kong, factors such as costly housing markets, expensive transportation, and higher prices for goods and services have collectively driven up the cost of living, as per t..
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Singapore stands out as one of the world's most expensive cities for international workers due to several factors. The high cost of housing is a significant driver, fueled by limited land availability and strong demand from both local residents and expatriates. Rental and property prices remain consistently high, making accommodation a substantial expense for those living and working in the city-state.


Singapore stands out as one of the world's most expensive cities for international workers due to several factors. The high cost of housing is a significant driver, fueled by limited land availabilit..
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Zurich, Switzerland is the third most expensive city in the world for international workers due to several compelling reasons. The primary factor is the city's acute housing shortage and high demand, which continuously drive up rental and property prices, making accommodation a substantial expense.

Zurich, Switzerland is the third most expensive city in the world for international workers due to several compelling reasons. The primary factor is the city's acute housing shortage and high demand,..
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Geneva, Switzerland, is renowned for its status as a global city with a correspondingly high cost of living, making it expensive for international workers. The city's housing market is particularly tight, leading to steep rental and property prices driven by high demand and limited availability. Switzerland's overall quality of life is exceptional, supported by world-class healthcare, education, and public services, but these benefits come with a premium price tag.


Geneva, Switzerland, is renowned for its status as a global city with a correspondingly high cost of living, making it expensive for international workers. The city's housing market is particularly t..
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Swiss wages are among the highest globally, reflecting the country's robust economy and competitive labor market. Basel's role as a major center for pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and life sciences also contributes to its high living costs, attracting skilled professionals to its thriving industries. Despite the financial challenges, Basel offers a safe, clean, and culturally rich environment that appeals to international workers seeking a high standard of living in a central European location.


Swiss wages are among the highest globally, reflecting the country's robust economy and competitive labor market. Basel's role as a major center for pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and life sciences also..
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Bern's position as the political center of Switzerland and its role as a hub for international organizations and diplomatic missions contribute to its high living expenses. Despite the financial challenges, Bern offers a picturesque and culturally rich environment with a strong emphasis on quality of life, attracting professionals who value safety, cleanliness, and a high standard of living in the heart of Europe.



Bern's position as the political center of Switzerland and its role as a hub for international organizations and diplomatic missions contribute to its high living expenses. Despite the financial chal..
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The cost of living in New York is inflated by high taxes, both at the city and state levels, which impact residents and workers alike. Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, and entertainment tend to be higher than the national average. The city's vibrant cultural scene, world-class amenities, and status as a global financial and cultural hub contribute to its appeal but also to its elevated costs.


The cost of living in New York is inflated by high taxes, both at the city and state levels, which impact residents and workers alike. Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, a..
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Renting or buying property in central London, especially in popular areas like Kensington, Chelsea, or Mayfair, can be extremely costly. Secondly, London's status as a global financial center contributes to its high cost of living, with competitive wages reflecting the city's economic prominence. Additionally, everyday expenses such as transport, dining out, and entertainment are generally higher compared to many other cities globally.


Renting or buying property in central London, especially in popular areas like Kensington, Chelsea, or Mayfair, can be extremely costly. Secondly, London's status as a global financial center contrib..
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Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, can be relatively expensive for international workers primarily due to its status as a tourist destination and financial hub in the region. The cost of living in Nassau is influenced by several factors, starting with high housing costs driven by demand from both locals and expatriates.


Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, can be relatively expensive for international workers primarily due to its status as a tourist destination and financial hub in the region. The cost of living..
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