London vs Hong Kong: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing London (United Kingdom) and Hong Kong (Hong Kong) reveals a cost-of-living index of 83.9 in London versus 73.7 in Hong Kong (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Hong Kong is 12.2% more affordable than London.

Metrological Indicator London (United Kingdom) Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 83.9 73.7
Rent Index 79.8 76
Groceries Index 69.5 69.5
Restaurant Price Index 85.8 62.4
Local Purchasing Power Index 92.4 58.1
1-Bed Apartment in City Center £2,548 HK$ 17,160
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal £20.80 HK$ 67.60
Monthly Public Transit Pass £187.20 HK$ 520.00
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) £218.40 HK$ 1,612
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 47.8/100 · Health 72.8/100 Safety 78.5/100 · Health 65.2/100

Is London more expensive than Hong Kong?

London has a higher overall cost-of-living index (83.9) compared to Hong Kong (73.7), representing an index differential of 10.2 points (12.2% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between London and Hong Kong?

In London, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages £2,548/month (Rent Index: 79.8), whereas in Hong Kong it averages HK$ 17,160/month (Rent Index: 76).

→ London Full Cost Report → Hong Kong Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in London

The cost of living in London, United Kingdom is indexed at 83.9 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in London are defined by a Rent Index of 79.8. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about £2,548 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In London, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages £20.80, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around £4.26. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately £187.20, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging £218.40 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, London secures a safety index rating of 47.8/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 85.2/100, healthcare standard scores 72.8/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 88.6 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: LONDON-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Hong Kong

The cost of living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong is indexed at 73.7 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Hong Kong are defined by a Rent Index of 76. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about HK$ 17,160 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Hong Kong, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages HK$ 67.60, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around HK$ 43.68. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately HK$ 520.00, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging HK$ 1,612 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Hong Kong secures a safety index rating of 78.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 72.4/100, healthcare standard scores 65.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 165.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: HONG KONG-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED