| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rentals | For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent is approximately HKD 16,000 to HKD 20,000. For the same outside the city center, it is around HKD 12,000 to HKD 15,000. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between HKD 30,000 and HKD 45,000 per month, while the same outside the city center can cost between HKD 20,000 and HKD 30,000. |
| Apartment Purchases | The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city center is approximately HKD 150,000 to HKD 200,000. Outside the city center, the price per square meter is around HKD 100,000 to HKD 150,000. |
| Transportation | A monthly pass for public transport costs around HKD 500 to HKD 700. The starting tariff for a normal taxi is about HKD 24, with an additional HKD 8.50 for each subsequent kilometer. The cost of 1 liter of gasoline is approximately HKD 16 to HKD 18. |
| Groceries | The average cost of a liter of milk is around HKD 20 to HKD 25. A loaf of fresh white bread (500g) costs approximately HKD 12 to HKD 20. A dozen eggs can cost between HKD 20 and HKD 30. The cost of 1kg of local cheese is around HKD 100 to HKD 150. A kilogram of chicken fillets costs approximately HKD 50 to HKD 70. A kilogram of apples costs around HKD 20 to HKD 30. A kilogram of oranges costs approximately HKD 15 to HKD 25. |
| Restaurants | A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around HKD 50 to HKD 100. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs approximately HKD 300 to HKD 500. A regular cappuccino costs around HKD 30 to HKD 40. A 0.5 liter domestic beer in a restaurant costs approximately HKD 40 to HKD 60. A 0.33 liter imported beer in a restaurant costs around HKD 40 to HKD 60. |
| Utilities | Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, cost around HKD 1,000 to HKD 1,500 per month. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) costs approximately HKD 200 to HKD 300 per month. |
| Private School Tuition | International preschool or kindergarten can cost between HKD 70,000 and HKD 120,000 per year. International primary school tuition fees range from HKD 90,000 to HKD 180,000 per year. International secondary school fees can range from HKD 120,000 to HKD 250,000 per year. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Kennedy Town
“Kennedy Town, is considered one of the more affordable areas on Hong Kong Island, but the cost of living is still relatively high compared to many other cities around the world. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, while outside the city center, it is slightly less costly. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water are also a significant part of monthly expenses. Internet services are relatively affordable. When it comes to food, eating out at an inexpensive restaurant in Kennedy Town is moderately priced, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can be quite costly. Groceries are also a significant part of the monthly budget, with prices for items like milk, bread, and eggs being relatively high.Public transportation in Kennedy Town is efficient and affordable, with options including buses, trams, and the MTR. Taxis are also available but are more expensive. Healthcare in Hong Kong is known for its high quality but can be expensive, especially for non-residents. Overall, while Kennedy Town is one of the more affordable areas in Hong Kong, the cost of living is still high, particularly when it comes to housing and food,” said one expat living in Kennedy Town.
Can I live in Kennedy Town on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Hong Kong for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $1,500 a month in Kennedy Town is going to be a bit of a stretch, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. The cost of living in Hong Kong is quite high, and Kennedy Town is no exception. Rent is likely to be your biggest expense. For a small studio apartment in Kennedy Town, you’re looking at around $1,000 to $1,200 a month. That doesn’t leave much for utilities, groceries, transportation, and other expenses. You might have to make some sacrifices, like living in a smaller space than you’re used to, not eating out as often, and using public transportation instead of taxis. If you’re willing to live a bit further out, you might find cheaper rent in areas like Aberdeen or Ap Lei Chau. These areas are still relatively close to the city center, but they’re not as trendy or convenient as Kennedy Town. On the other hand, if you’re considering more upscale neighborhoods like Mid-Levels or The Peak, you can expect to pay significantly more for rent. These areas are known for their luxury apartments and stunning views, but they’re definitely not budget-friendly. In conclusion, while it’s not impossible to live on $1,500 a month in Hong Kong, it will require careful budgeting and some compromises,” commented an expat living in Kennedy Town.
Can I live in Kennedy Town on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Kennedy Town for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $3,000 a month is possible, but it will require some careful budgeting and sacrifices. The biggest expense you’ll have to consider is rent. Kennedy Town is a bit cheaper than the more central areas like Central or Wan Chai, but you’re still looking at around $1,500 to $2,000 for a small one-bedroom apartment. If you’re willing to have roommates or live in a studio, you can find something cheaper. Food can be quite affordable if you eat at local restaurants or cook at home. Groceries are a bit more expensive than in the US, but still manageable. Eating out at Western-style restaurants or buying imported goods can add up quickly though. Public transportation is very affordable and efficient, so you won’t need a car. Utilities like electricity, water, and internet are also reasonably priced. The sacrifices you’ll have to make will mostly be in terms of space and luxury. Apartments here are much smaller than what you might be used to in the US. You’ll also have to give up certain luxuries like a dryer or a large kitchen. If you’re looking for cheaper neighborhoods, you might want to consider areas like Sham Shui Po or Mong Kok. They’re a bit further out, but still well-connected by public transportation. On the other hand, areas like Mid-Levels or The Peak are very expensive and probably out of your budget. In terms of entertainment, there are plenty of free or cheap things to do in Hong Kong, like hiking or visiting the many markets. However, if you’re into nightlife or fine dining, that can get expensive quickly. Overall, it’s definitely possible to live in Kennedy Town on $3,000 a month, but you’ll have to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices,” said one expat living in Kennedy Town.
Can I live in Kennedy Town on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Kennedy Town for a few years now and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, but it does require some careful budgeting and lifestyle adjustments. The biggest expense is definitely housing. Rent in Kennedy Town can range from $2,000 to $3,000 a month for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on the location and the building’s amenities. If you want to save on rent, you might want to consider living in a less expensive neighborhood like Sai Ying Pun or Shek Tong Tsui, which are still close to Kennedy Town and have a similar vibe. On the other hand, areas like Mid-Levels and The Peak are much more expensive and probably out of reach on a $5,000 a month budget. After housing, food is the next biggest expense. Eating out in Hong Kong can be quite pricey, especially if you’re used to Western-style restaurants. However, there are plenty of local eateries where you can get a meal for less than $10. Groceries can also be expensive, especially for imported goods, but shopping at local markets can help cut costs. Transportation is relatively cheap, especially if you use public transit. A monthly pass for the MTR (the local subway system) costs around $60. Utilities like electricity, water, and internet can add up to a few hundred dollars a month, depending on usage. As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to do in Hong Kong, like hiking, visiting parks, or exploring different neighborhoods. However, if you’re a big fan of nightlife or high-end shopping, you might need to cut back on these activities to stay within your budget. In terms of healthcare, it’s worth noting that while public healthcare in Hong Kong is very affordable, there can be long wait times for non-emergency services. Many expats choose to use private healthcare, which can be quite expensive. If you have health insurance, make sure to check what’s covered in Hong Kong. Overall, living in Kennedy Town on $5,000 a month is doable, but it does require some sacrifices and careful budgeting. It’s all about finding the right balance between cost and comfort,” commented an expat living in Kennedy Town.
