Amenities & Cost of Living

It takes a lot to move abroad, but costs considerably less to live in Hong Kong if you are prepared. To address the elephant in the room: housing will probably take a big bite out of your pie, but it’s not as bad as you might think. The cost of living here, all things considered, is very affordable considering it’s a global financial centre.

Eating out is cheap. Hongkongers have always loved going to restaurants, and eateries are popping up left and right to cater to the ever-increasing appetite for take-home orders. A full meal at a local cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) will cost you no more than HK$60 (less than US$8), plus it’s tax free, and tips aren’t expected.

With the 5G network reaching more than 90 percent of the city, Hong Kong boasts increased bandwidth and high download speeds, and there is a low monthly fee for telecommunications services: there is a data plan that can be used in Hong Kong, Mainland China and Macau from HK$108, plus prepaid monthly SIM cards for HK$88 up. If you want to save a few dollars, skip the 5G plan altogether! Wi-Fi.HK is a government-led initiative that’s established more than 5,000 free wifi hotspots in the city.

Groceries, transport, and utilities add up, but they do so a lot slower in Hong Kong. The city’s warm climate and proximity to Mainland China translate to low electricity bills and cheap, fresh produce. The public transport system of Hong Kong is heavily invested to encourage public transit. Crossing the Victoria Harbour on the Star Ferry, for example, costs less than HK$4, which translates to under US$0.5!