Living in Hong Kong
Last updated on Feb 08, 2024
Summary: People often describe life in Hong Kong as fast-paced, vibrant, and exciting. Expats love the city's diverse culture, the abundance of international cuisine, and the convenience of public transportation. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $3,000 USD per month. The population of Hong Kong is approximately 7.5 million people. The largest cities in Hong Kong are Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. The cons of living in Hong Kong include the high cost of living, the lack of space, and the pollution. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for expats who are not fluent in Cantonese.
What do I need to know about living in Hong Kong?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Hong Kong, they said:
"Try and get out and meet people as soon as you can. I think that makes a big difference in your settling into any country. I would also recommend taking a positive attitude. The crowds, pollution and lifestyle can wear you down over time. Look at it as an adventure and a life time experience and it will be! Here is a list of potential items to bring: PERSONAL H&B PRODUCTS: Allergenic soap substitutes (for people with eczema etc) Bug spray is available but expensive Cosmetics – most imported cosmetics are double here. Some brands that you will recognize are actually formulated differently for the Asian completion. Deodorant /anti perspiring – epically non-fragrance ones Razors for men and women Sanitary pads Suntan lotion Tampons Vitamin E Cream Vitamins/supplements MEDICAL: Advil or Ibuprofen Anti-bacterial cream, antacid, etc. Cold / flu medicines First Aid equipment -like savlon spray or cream, sulpha powder, dressings etc Prescription drugs. CLOTHING: Athletic socks Diapers (disposable ones) are very expensive. Cloth ones not available. Panty-hose Pictures of clothes styles that you as tailors are quite reasonable Shoes – casual, dress, and sport Sports clothes Swimwear Underwear (ladies’ and men’s) STATIONARY – PAPER: Art supplies (i.e. construction paper, glitter, Popsicle sticks, and pipe cleaners) Books Christmas cards Dictionaries Lots of "busy" work – jigsaw puzzles, games Photos of loved ones School supplies Stamps from your country (if you send things through company mail) KITCHEN PRODUCTS/TOOLS: Blender, food processor, mixer. Chicken stock (local product has MSG) Cocoa powder - very expensive Coffee or Coffee Beans and grinder! (Starbuck’s due June 2000) Comfort food (i.e. cereal, pasta, spices, fruit roll ups, etc.) Fondue pot/equipment Garbage bags for kitchen made of plastic net (as in Japan) Coffee machine Pans for baking cakes or cookie sheets/tins, and muffin tins Poppy Seeds Raclette machine Seeds to grow one's own basil or other herbs Sesame seeds Some kitchenware like peeler, spatulas, thermometers and whisks Packet mix for casseroles and dips, etc Vegetable shortening for baking is available here but quite expensive. Weber Grill CD ROMs Printer cartridges Full Size bath towels Nice sheets/linen," said one expat in Hong Kong.
"Before retiring in Hong Kong, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than in other parts of the world. It is important to research the different types of visas available and the associated requirements for each. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the local laws and regulations. Finally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services and the quality of healthcare in Hong Kong," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Hong Kong?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Hong Kong?
- Will I be able to find a job in Hong Kong?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Hong Kong appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Hong Kong?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Hong Kong accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Hong Kong like?
- How are healthcare services in Hong Kong?
- What are medical services in Hong Kong like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hong Kong?
- What are emergency services like in Hong Kong?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Hong Kong?
- How are local medical facilities in Hong Kong?
- As a foreigner living in Hong Kong, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?