Cost of Living in Hong Kong: An Expat’s Guide (2025 Edition)
Photo credit: RebeccaSehn
Hong Kong remains one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world—but it comes at a price. Known for its sky-high real estate and fast-paced lifestyle, this vertical city often ranks among the most expensive places to live. For expats considering a move, understanding the cost of living is key to making informed choices about neighbourhoods, schooling, and daily life.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the real costs of living in Hong Kong in 2025—covering everything from housing and groceries to healthcare, transportation, and international schools.
Housing: The Biggest Expense
Rent is the single largest expense for most expats. Prices vary widely depending on location, size, and building age. Areas like Mid-Levels, The Peak, and Repulse Bay command premium rents for their views, amenities, and prestige. In contrast, neighbourhoods like Sai Ying Pun, North Point, or parts of New Territories offer more affordable options.
Monthly rental estimates (2025):
One-bedroom flat in Central: HK$25,000–40,000
Two-bedroom apartment in Mid-Levels: HK$35,000–60,000
Three-bedroom family flat in Kowloon Tong or Stanley: HK$50,000–90,000+
Serviced apartment (1 bed): HK$30,000–60,000/month
High-End Expat Areas
In Hong Kong, location equals price—and prime neighbourhoods like Mid-Levels, The Peak, Repulse Bay, and Stanley are some of the most expensive in the city. These districts offer spacious apartments, proximity to international schools, English-speaking services, and a quieter, greener environment—ideal for families and executives with housing allowances.
Average Monthly Rent (2025):
Mid-Levels (2-bed apartment): HK$45,000–60,000
The Peak (3-bed house): HK$90,000–120,000
Repulse Bay (3-bed flat): HK$70,000–100,000
Stanley (4-bed townhouse): HK$85,000–130,000
Serviced apartments, found in areas like Happy Valley, Sai Ying Pun, or Kennedy Town, offer flexibility and hotel-style amenities but usually come at a premium: HK$45,000–80,000/month for a 1–2 bed.
Mid-Tier & Local Areas
More affordable options can be found in Tsuen Wan, Tai Wai, Cheung Sha Wan, North Point, or even up-and-coming areas like Hung Hom or Kai Tak. While flats here may be older or smaller, they're often well located and close to wet markets, public transport, and local schools.
Average Monthly Rent (2025):
North Point (2-bed): HK$20,000–30,000
Tsuen Wan (3-bed): HK$25,000–40,000
Tai Wai (3-bed): HK$28,000–45,000
Cheung Sha Wan (2-bed): HK$18,000–28,000
Shared flats and co-living spaces are also popular among younger expats and digital nomads. Monthly costs for co-living range from HK$10,000–18,000, including utilities.
Buying property as an expat is possible, but high stamp duties and upfront costs make renting the more popular choice. New developments often include clubhouses, gyms, and pools, adding value to your rental but also increasing monthly fees.
Utilities and Internet
Utility costs are generally reasonable, though heavy air-conditioning use in summer can inflate your electricity bill. Most flats include management fees that cover cleaning of communal areas and security.
Average monthly costs:
Electricity, water & gas: HK$1,000–2,500
High-speed fibre internet: HK$300–600/month
Mobile phone plans: HK$150–300/month (with unlimited data options)
Top providers include CLP Power, HK Electric, PCCW, and HKT. Most apartments are already equipped for fast installation.
Food and Groceries
Grocery shopping in Hong Kong can be expensive if you're buying imported goods. However, local supermarkets and wet markets provide affordable alternatives.
Typical costs:
Local lunch at a cha chaan teng: HK$50–80
Western meal at a mid-range restaurant: HK$200–400 per person
Groceries for a family of four: HK$6,000–10,000/month
Wet markets offer fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood at lower prices, while stores like City’super, Oliver’s, and Great cater to international tastes. Meal delivery services (like Deliveroo or Foodpanda) are widely used but can add up over time.
Transportation
Hong Kong’s public transport is one of the best in the world: clean, punctual, and extensive. Many expats don’t own a car, as public transport reaches nearly every corner of the city.
Monthly costs:
MTR monthly pass: HK$500–600
Taxi ride (5km): HK$50–70
Uber: Slightly more than taxis
Car ownership: HK$8,000–12,000/month (including parking)
Taxis are affordable by Western standards (HK$30 base fare), but they add up quickly. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are available but limited in some areas.
Owning a car is considered a luxury and comes with high costs for petrol, insurance, and limited parking. That said, private drivers are common for senior executives and families with young children.
Healthcare
Public healthcare is efficient and low-cost for residents with a Hong Kong ID, but it often involves long wait times. Most expats prefer private healthcare, which is excellent but expensive without insurance.
Private healthcare costs:
GP consultation: HK$600–1,500
Specialist consultation: HK$1,200–2,500
International health insurance: HK$15,000–40,000/year (individual), more for families
Top private hospitals include Hong Kong Adventist, Matilda International, and Gleneagles. Most offer English-speaking staff and international-standard care.
Education
International schools in Hong Kong offer globally recognised curriculums, including British (GCSE and A-Level), American (AP), IB, French, German, and bilingual options. Spaces are competitive, and many schools charge application fees, debentures, or capital levies.
Average tuition fees (2025):
Kindergarten: HK$100,000–160,000/year
Primary school: HK$150,000–220,000/year
Secondary school: HK$180,000–300,000/year
Popular schools include HKIS (American), French International School, German Swiss International School, ESF schools, and Chinese International School. Local schools and Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) schools are more affordable but typically require Cantonese language proficiency.
Childcare and Domestic Help
Hiring a full-time live-in domestic helper is common in Hong Kong, offering support with cleaning, cooking, and childcare. Most helpers are from the Philippines or Indonesia.
Typical costs:
Monthly salary: HK$4,870 (government minimum)
Live-in expenses: Food and private room
Agency and visa fees: HK$10,000–20,000 (one-time)
Nurseries and daycare centres are available, but many expats opt for private preschools or rely on helpers for flexible care.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
Life in Hong Kong can be as affordable or indulgent as you choose. From free hiking trails to high-end memberships, the city has something for everyone.
Monthly lifestyle costs for a couple:
Gym membership: HK$800–1,500
Pilates/yoga classes: HK$200–350 per session
Dining out and bars: HK$2,000–6,000/month
Club memberships: HK$20,000–300,000 initiation + monthly fees
Weekend getaways to Macau, Thailand, or Japan are also popular, with budget airlines offering deals from HK$1,000 roundtrip.
Relocation and Setup Costs
Moving to Hong Kong involves upfront costs beyond rent and utilities. Be prepared for:
Real estate agent fees: Typically half to one month’s rent
Security deposit: 2–3 months' rent
Furniture (if unfurnished): HK$30,000–100,000
School application fees: HK$1,000–2,500 per child (non-refundable)
Some expat packages include relocation allowances, which can significantly ease the financial burden of settling in.
Final Thoughts: How Much Do You Need to Live in Hong Kong?
A comfortable monthly budget depends on your lifestyle, family size, and housing choice. As a general guide:
Single expat (modest lifestyle): HK$30,000–50,000/month
Expat couple: HK$50,000–90,000/month
Family of four: HK$80,000–150,000+/month
Despite its high costs, Hong Kong offers an unmatched quality of life, world-class infrastructure, and a truly global environment. With smart planning and realistic budgeting, expats can enjoy everything this remarkable city has to offer.
Despite its reputation for high rent, Hong Kong offers exceptional earning potential, zero sales tax, world-class infrastructure, and access to Asia’s major business and travel hubs. Whether you're a high-flying executive, a budget-conscious freelancer, or a family seeking international exposure, Hong Kong still delivers an unmatched lifestyle—if you plan wisely.
