Top 5 Most Expensive Cities in the World

Below we present the list of Top 5 Most Expensive Cities in the World. For our methodology and a more comprehensive list please see Top 20 Most Expensive Cities in the World.

5. Bern, Switzerland

The top five is dominated by Swiss cities, beginning with Bern ranking as the fifth-most expensive city in the world. Bern consistently ranks highly in global quality of life surveys and is known for its clean and safe streets, high-quality healthcare system, and good public transportation. Bern also has a strong economy and is home to a number of international organizations and companies, making it a good place to find employment.

Housing costs in Bern can be high, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranging from around $1,693 to $2,822 per month and the average price for a condo unit in the city center being around $1.14 million.

4. Basel, Switzerland

Basel is a city located in northwest Switzerland, near the border with Germany and France. It is the third most populous city in Switzerland and is known for its cultural and economic importance. Basel is home to a number of cultural attractions, including several museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a number of parks and recreational areas.

Housing and condo costs in Basel are about the same as they are in Bern, while the cost of purchasing a home is even more expensive than a condo, coming in at around $1.37 million.

3. Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva is located in the heart of Switzerland, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Swiss Alps. The historic Old Town is home to many of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Cathédrale St-Pierre, the Palais des Nations (United Nations headquarters), and the Maison Tavel. The streets of the Old Town are also lined with charming boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

Geneva is a small city however, and housing can be in high demand, making it difficult to find affordable and suitable housing, with costs about on par with what they are in Bern and Basel.

2. Zurich, Switzerland

Yet another Swiss city ranks among the five most expensive in the world, this time being Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, which is known for its high standard of living. As a result, the cost of living in the city can be quite high, especially compared to other cities in Europe.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can run about $2,150 to $3,230, while one outside  the city center costs about $1,620 to $2,150. Groceries can run about $430 to $640 on average, but obviously depend heavily on the eating habits of the individual. Public transportation costs about $80 to $110 per month.

1. Hong Kong

Topping the list is the Chinese special administrative region of Hong Kong, which has a strong and diverse economy, a well-developed financial sector, and a high standard of living. The city is also a major hub for international trade, which can provide numerous employment opportunities.

Housing costs in Hong Kong are among the highest in the world, with the average price of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center exceeding $1,900 per month. Other expenses, such as groceries and transportation, are also relatively high compared to other cities in the region.

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