Welcome to a journey through most expensive cities to live in the world, where sky-high costs define the lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the jaw-dropping real estate prices, lavish dining experiences, and the hefty price tags attached to transportation and healthcare in these cities.
Most expensive cities to live in the world: Top 8
1.Monaco: Topping the list of most expensive cities to live in the world, is the city-state of Monaco. Known for its glitz, glamour, and tax haven status, Monaco boasts jaw-dropping real estate prices and a luxurious lifestyle.
- Housing: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Monaco can set you back around $4,500 to $6,000 per month.
- Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately $80 per person.
- Transportation: Public transport fares are relatively affordable, with a monthly pass costing around $70.
- Monaco’s healthcare system is considered one of the best globally. It offers a public healthcare system available to all legal residents, as well as private hospitals and clinics for those willing to pay more.
2.New York City, USA: The Big Apple claims second place among most expensive cities to live in the world. With its iconic skyline, New York City is home to a staggering number of millionaires, centi-millionaires, and billionaires. The cost of living here is sky-high.
- Rent: Expect to pay $3,500 to $4,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan.
- Food: Dining out can range from $15 for a quick lunch to $100 or more for a fancy dinner.
- Transport: Monthly subway passes cost around $130.
- Healthcare costs in New York City are high. Per-person spending on health services was $5,855 in 2020, 20% above the national median.
3.London, UK: Among most expensive cities to live in the world, London ranks third. The British capital houses a significant number of wealthy individuals, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Prime real estate in London can cost up to $26,500 per square meter.
- Housing: Renting a one-bedroom flat in central London can be as high as $3,000 to $4,000 per month.
- Eating Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $50 per person.
- Transport: A monthly travelcard for zones 1 and 2 costs approximately $180.
- The UK’s healthcare system, the National Health Service (NHS), provides free or low-cost healthcare to residents. Private treatment is also available.
4.Hong Kong: Asia’s most expensive city, Hong Kong, secures the fourth spot among most expensive cities to live in the world. Its vibrant culture, stunning skyline, and bustling lifestyle come at a premium.
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Hong Kong Island can cost $2,500 to $3,500 per month.
- Dining: Eating out is diverse, with street food starting at $5 and upscale restaurants reaching $100 per person.
- Transport: An Octopus card for public transport costs about $50 per month.
5.Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, France: Nestled between Monaco and Nice, this French Riviera gem is the fifth most expensive place globally. Coastal trails, beaches, and luxury living define Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.This exclusive destination offers luxurious hotels and villas. Some top options include Hotel Royal Riviera, Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, and Boutique Hotel & Spa la Villa Cap Ferrat.
- Accommodation: Renting a luxurious villa can be upwards of $10,000 per month.
- Cuisine: Dining at local restaurants averages around $70 per person.
- Getting Around: Taxis and private cars are common; expect to spend around $200 per month.
6.Sydney, Australia: Among most expensive cities to live in the world, Sydney ranks sixth. Australia’s largest concentration of millionaires resides here, alongside centi-millionaires and billionaires.
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in Sydney CBD can cost $2,500 to $3,500 per month.
- Food: Eating out ranges from $15 for a quick bite to $80 for a nice dinner.
- Transport: A monthly Opal card for public transport is approximately $150.
7.Paris, France: The City of Love captures seventh place among most expensive cities to live in the world. Paris continues to attract high-net-worth individuals with its elegance, art, and culinary delights.
- Housing: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in central Paris can be $2,500 to $3,500 per month.
- Dining: Enjoying French cuisine at bistros costs around $40 per person.
- Travel: A Navigo pass for unlimited public transport is about $80 per month.
- Paris, France:
- France has one of the most expensive healthcare systems globally, spending around 11.3% of GDP on health care, which translates to approximately $5,370 per capita. Patients typically pay a flat rate of around €25 for a GP visit, with higher rates for after-hours and at-home visits
8.Los Angeles, USA: Hollywood’s home claims eighth place among most expensive cities to live in the world. From Santa Monica to Long Beach, Los Angeles offers a glamorous lifestyle but demands a hefty wallet.
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in LA can range from $2,000 to $3,000 per month.
- Food: Dining out varies, with fast food at $10 and upscale restaurants at $100 per person.
- Transport: A monthly Metro TAP card costs approximately $100.
- The average annual health care cost for a Los Angeles family of four is approximately $19,391. Public health services are generally cheaper than private services, as they are subsidized by the government. However, private health plans may offer more comprehensive coverage and lower out-of-pocket costs.
Conclusion
To sum up, most expensive cities to live in the world show us how fancy and expensive life can be in these big rich places. But it’s important to remember that not everyone can afford this luxury. Some people struggle to pay for basic things like housing and food. So, while these cities may look glamorous, they also remind us that not everyone gets to enjoy the good life.
