Introduction
The cost of living varies significantly across the world and is usually measured by the cost of living or cost of living index. The cost of living in a country reflects the amount of money needed to sustain a comfortable standard of living, including expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare. Monaco is the most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $3,585 per month. Other expensive countries to live in include the Cayman Islands, Switzerland, and Singapore, all of which have a cost of living of over $2,000 per month.
Looking at the data, it is apparent that the cost of living is higher in developed countries than in developing ones. The top 10 most expensive countries are all developed nations from Europe, North America, and Asia. In contrast, the least expensive countries to live in are developing nations from Africa, Asia, and South America. Another trend in the data is that the cost of living is generally higher in small countries and islands, where resources are scarce, and the cost of imports is high.
Most Expensive Countries
# | Country | Cost of Living | Cost of Living Index | Local Purchasing Power Index | Rent Index |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Monaco | $3,585 | |||
2 | Cayman Islands | $2,888 | 103.4 | 76.7 | 75.7 |
3 | Switzerland | $2,507 | 114.2 | 118.7 | 50.2 |
4 | Singapore | $2,420 | 85.9 | 95.6 | 85.3 |
5 | Liechtenstein | $2,118 | |||
6 | United States of America | $2,112 | 72.4 | 115.7 | 47.1 |
7 | Iceland | $2,054 | 83.3 | 90.1 | 36.7 |
8 | Luxembourg | $2,050 | 73.2 | 127.1 | 48.3 |
9 | Ireland | $1,974 | 70.5 | 82.6 | 44.4 |
10 | Australia | $1,947 | 75.3 | 110.9 | 39 |
11 | Norway | $1,892 | 88.6 | 95 | 30.9 |
12 | Qatar | $1,891 | 59.5 | 123.6 | 50 |
13 | Vanuatu | $1,886 | |||
14 | Canada | $1,832 | 66.1 | 102.1 | 33.4 |
15 | The Bahamas | $1,809 | 90.9 | 43.2 | 39.6 |
16 | United Kingdom | $1,804 | 61.5 | 98.9 | 30.3 |
17 | Israel | $1,748 | 76.4 | 80.5 | 30.4 |
18 | Netherlands | $1,680 | 68.6 | 107.8 | 33.4 |
19 | New Zealand | $1,669 | 72.9 | 93 | 31.9 |
20 | Denmark | $1,665 | 78.6 | 105 | 30.4 |
21 | United Arab Emirates | $1,660 | 60.3 | 123.4 | 34 |
22 | Solomon Islands | $1,577 | |||
23 | North Korea | $1,554 | |||
24 | Antigua and Barbuda | $1,546 | |||
25 | Austria | $1,467 | 66 | 91.2 | 23.1 |
26 | Finland | $1,423 | 67.5 | 98.8 | 22.7 |
27 | Sweden | $1,398 | 62.9 | 101.2 | 22.7 |
28 | Seychelles | $1,387 | |||
29 | France | $1,363 | 68.7 | 86.2 | 24.6 |
30 | Germany | $1,325 | 62.9 | 107.6 | 26.1 |
31 | Belgium | $1,324 | 65.6 | 94.5 | 22.4 |
32 | Kuwait | $1,312 | 46.8 | 96.7 | 27.1 |
33 | Malta | $1,275 | 61.4 | 50.6 | 25.7 |
34 | Marshall Islands | $1,271 | |||
35 | Barbados | $1,262 | 88.8 | 36.8 | 21.2 |
36 | Lebanon | $1,254 | 65.8 | 22.7 | 19.2 |
37 | Italy | $1,221 | 61.3 | 66.5 | 20.5 |
38 | Cyprus | $1,213 | 55.9 | 54.8 | 27.4 |
39 | Maldives | $1,188 | 55 | 33.9 | 27 |
40 | Saint Kitts and Nevis | $1,184 | |||
41 | Bahrain | $1,171 | 52.7 | 81.7 | 25.4 |
42 | Japan | $1,171 | 64.6 | 100.4 | 20.8 |
43 | Palau | $1,162 | |||
44 | Turkmenistan | $1,159 | |||
45 | Spain | $1,141 | 50.6 | 82.5 | 21.7 |
46 | Angola | $1,129 | |||
47 | Oman | $1,126 | 47.8 | 108.2 | 15.8 |
48 | Andorra | $1,104 | |||
49 | Uruguay | $1,090 | 59.9 | 38.4 | 15.9 |
50 | Cuba | $1,078 | 52.6 | 1.6 | 16 |
51 | Brunei | $1,066 | 55.2 | 60.7 | 17.9 |
52 | South Korea | $1,062 | 70.4 | 85.5 | 17.5 |
53 | Slovenia | $1,059 | 50.8 | 61.7 | 16.6 |
54 | Mozambique | $1,042 | |||
55 | Saint Lucia | $1,042 | |||
56 | Panama | $1,040 | 48.2 | 36.4 | 19.7 |
57 | Saudi Arabia | $1,020 | 50.6 | 101.9 | 12 |
58 | Estonia | $1,019 | 54.8 | 61.4 | 16.4 |
59 | San Marino | $1,018 | |||
60 | Grenada | $1,012 | |||
61 | Nigeria | $1,008 | 30.9 | 8.4 | 33.3 |
62 | Czech Republic | $1,007 | 48.9 | 71.8 | 19.1 |
63 | Democratic Republic of the Congo | $1,001 | |||
64 | Zambia | $1,000 | |||
65 | Dominica | $992 | |||
66 | Taiwan | $981 | 54.2 | 71.3 | 15.3 |
67 | Portugal | $977 | 45.3 | 51.7 | 21.9 |
68 | Trinidad and Tobago | $977 | 53.3 | 38.9 | 13.7 |
69 | Senegal | $969 | 46.4 | 21.7 | 22.2 |
70 | Guinea | $933 | |||
71 | Greece | $919 | 54.6 | 41.9 | 12.9 |
72 | Palestine | $916 | 50.7 | 39.8 | 9.6 |
73 | Slovakia | $913 | 44.2 | 56.3 | 14.9 |
74 | Guatemala | $910 | 40.2 | 29.7 | 13.8 |
75 | Croatia | $896 | 46.7 | 56.2 | 12.2 |
76 | Laos | $894 | |||
77 | Costa Rica | $893 | 48.8 | 41.5 | 14.9 |
78 | Niger | $885 | |||
79 | Armenia | $884 | 40.8 | 25.5 | 23.5 |
80 | Jamaica | $875 | 53.6 | 28.9 | 13.6 |
81 | Equatorial Guinea | $871 | |||
82 | Russia | $868 | 40.8 | 40.9 | 12.8 |
83 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | $863 | |||
84 | Latvia | $860 | 50.9 | 52.9 | 10.9 |
85 | Lithuania | $859 | 48.8 | 56.7 | 16.8 |
86 | El Salvador | $853 | 43.3 | 22.7 | 14.8 |
87 | South Africa | $852 | 37.8 | 83.9 | 14 |
88 | Ivory Coast | $845 | 42.7 | 7.8 | 15.5 |
89 | Belize | $840 | 48 | 49.2 | 11.7 |
90 | Chile | $840 | 44.1 | 37.3 | 13.4 |
91 | Guyana | $838 | 47.3 | 23.3 | 9.5 |
92 | Jordan | $835 | 46.8 | 38 | 8.8 |
93 | Zimbabwe | $831 | 40.8 | 18.7 | 11.5 |
94 | Myanmar | $822 | 32.9 | 29.7 | 20 |
95 | Namibia | $819 | 35.8 | 51.3 | 11.8 |
96 | Poland | $814 | 38.6 | 64 | 16 |
97 | Georgia | $812 | 38.9 | 25.9 | 19.3 |
98 | Somalia | $797 | |||
99 | Cambodia | $796 | 44.5 | 15.5 | 13.8 |
100 | São Tomé and Príncipe | $795 | |||
101 | Dominican Republic | $791 | 41.8 | 23 | 11.9 |
102 | Honduras | $771 | 38.8 | 35.4 | 9.3 |
103 | Venezuela | $762 | 41.6 | 12.4 | 7.4 |
104 | People's Republic of China | $758 | 39.2 | 62.3 | 18.8 |
105 | Ecuador | $750 | 35.1 | 37 | 9.7 |
106 | Sierra Leone | $748 | |||
107 | Tanzania | $743 | 30.8 | 20.5 | 9.9 |
108 | Thailand | $742 | 40.7 | 33.2 | 13.3 |
109 | Mauritania | $739 | |||
110 | Ethiopia | $732 | 42.3 | 11.6 | 17.1 |
111 | Eswatini | $728 | |||
112 | Fiji | $725 | 38.5 | 65.5 | 15.1 |
113 | Iran | $723 | 35.2 | 21.1 | 14.6 |
114 | Mexico | $713 | 37.3 | 43.5 | 12.8 |
115 | Hungary | $712 | 39.2 | 53.1 | 11.6 |
116 | Bolivia | $703 | 31.9 | 37.4 | 8.2 |
117 | Iraq | $688 | 31.4 | 44.5 | 9.2 |
118 | Suriname | $679 | |||
119 | Burkina Faso | $677 | |||
120 | Peru | $672 | 32.4 | 31.3 | 11.1 |
121 | Serbia | $667 | 37.2 | 39.6 | 10.6 |
122 | Rwanda | $664 | 30 | 30 | 14.2 |
123 | Brazil | $661 | 34.7 | 28.7 | 8.3 |
124 | Sudan | $657 | |||
125 | Montenegro | $655 | 38.9 | 40.4 | 13.5 |
126 | Romania | $650 | 37.4 | 52.5 | 9.9 |
127 | Benin | $645 | |||
128 | Bulgaria | $639 | 40.5 | 51.2 | 10 |
129 | Mauritius | $629 | 42.2 | 30.8 | 10.9 |
130 | Guinea-Bissau | $628 | |||
131 | Madagascar | $628 | |||
132 | Nicaragua | $625 | 36.8 | 21.7 | 7.8 |
133 | Nauru | $624 | |||
134 | Vietnam | $622 | 35.7 | 31.5 | 11.2 |
135 | Kenya | $608 | 32.4 | 32.8 | 7.8 |
136 | Botswana | $607 | 34.4 | 63.6 | 7.5 |
137 | Gabon | $606 | |||
138 | Togo | $594 | |||
139 | Albania | $592 | 37.4 | 30.1 | 9.1 |
140 | Lesotho | $589 | |||
141 | Philippines | $587 | 34 | 22.4 | 9.8 |
142 | Morocco | $586 | 29.3 | 33.6 | 7.5 |
143 | Belarus | $581 | 35.4 | 36.4 | 10 |
144 | Ghana | $581 | 26.7 | 17.2 | 14.6 |
145 | Argentina | $576 | 31.2 | 36.8 | 6.9 |
146 | Malaysia | $574 | 35 | 65.7 | 9.8 |
147 | Uganda | $574 | 32.1 | 12.5 | 9 |
148 | Indonesia | $564 | 31.2 | 27.5 | 8.3 |
149 | Cameroon | $560 | 33.6 | 18.4 | 5.7 |
150 | Paraguay | $555 | 28.6 | 27.8 | 9.3 |
151 | Malawi | $553 | |||
152 | Republic of the Congo | $550 | |||
153 | Colombia | $548 | 23.1 | 31.1 | 7 |
154 | Djibouti | $548 | |||
155 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | $546 | 35.1 | 48.6 | 5.9 |
156 | Mongolia | $546 | 31.2 | 24.3 | 8.3 |
157 | Mali | $536 | |||
158 | Yemen | $535 | 58.8 | 18.6 | 7.9 |
159 | Uzbekistan | $525 | 27 | 24.8 | 10.7 |
160 | Papua New Guinea | $524 | |||
161 | Azerbaijan | $522 | 28.9 | 32 | 7.5 |
162 | Liberia | $522 | |||
163 | Chad | $518 | |||
164 | Eritrea | $516 | |||
165 | Central African Republic | $515 | |||
166 | Haiti | $515 | |||
167 | Republic of Macedonia | $512 | 31.4 | 38.2 | 5.7 |
168 | Burundi | $508 | |||
169 | South Sudan | $505 | |||
170 | Comoros | $504 | |||
171 | East Timor | $503 | |||
172 | Syria | $503 | 26.1 | 5.5 | 4.5 |
173 | Moldova | $501 | 32.3 | 33.1 | 8.3 |
174 | Bhutan | $498 | |||
175 | Tajikistan | $491 | |||
176 | Kazakhstan | $475 | 28.1 | 38.1 | 11.5 |
177 | Ukraine | $458 | 25.6 | 38.1 | 8.1 |
178 | Bangladesh | $448 | 26.6 | 26.9 | 3.2 |
179 | Kyrgyzstan | $441 | 25.9 | 25.5 | 9.3 |
180 | Turkey | $428 | 28.1 | 31 | 7.2 |
181 | The Gambia | $425 | |||
182 | Egypt | $418 | 21.6 | 21.9 | 4.3 |
183 | India | $416 | 22.4 | 64.6 | 5.5 |
184 | Tunisia | $416 | 26.5 | 30 | 5 |
185 | Libya | $398 | 24.2 | 32.1 | 5.2 |
186 | Afghanistan | $397 | |||
187 | Algeria | $391 | 27.6 | 26.9 | 4.3 |
188 | Nepal | $385 | 24.8 | 21.8 | 3.7 |
189 | Sri Lanka | $316 | 25.3 | 16 | 5.4 |
190 | Pakistan | $294 | 18 | 24.4 | 3.4 |
Cost of Living
The cost of living is calculated by adding up the expenses needed to maintain a certain standard of living. However, the actual cost of living in dollars can be misleading because the cost of living varies widely depending on where one lives. To address this issue, cost of living indexes have been developed to provide a more accurate comparison of the cost of living across countries. These indexes measure the cost of a basket of goods and services that are representative of the typical expenses of people in a particular location.
Numbeo is a popular source for cost of living data that provides three indexes: cost of living index, local purchasing power index, and rent index. The cost of living index compares the cost of living in different countries to the cost of living in New York City, which has a score of 100. The local purchasing power index measures the purchasing power of a typical salary in a particular location compared to New York City. Finally, the rent index compares the cost of renting a house or apartment in different countries to the cost of renting in New York City.
Comparing these three indexes gives a more accurate representation of the cost of living in different countries. For example, a country with a high cost of living index but also a high local purchasing power index may be less expensive for locals than for foreigners. On the other hand, a country with a low cost of living index but a high rent index may be affordable for daily expenses but not for housing. Therefore, by using these three indexes together, we can obtain a more comprehensive picture of the cost of living in different countries.
Most Expensive Countries to Live In
The world’s most expensive country to live in is Monaco, with a cost of living of $3.6k per month. Monaco’s high cost of living is due to the nation’s reputation as a tax haven and playground for the rich. Following Monaco, the second most expensive country to live in is the Cayman Islands with a cost of living of $2.9k per month, a cost of living index of 103.4, a local purchasing power index of 76.7, and a rent index of 75.7. The island nation relies heavily on imports, is a tourist hotspot, and is also a tax haven.
Switzerland is the third most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $2.5k per month, a cost of living index of 114.2, a local purchasing power index of 118.7, and a rent index of 50.2. The nation is a well-known haven for wealthy people and boasts some of Europe’s highest wages. Singapore ranks as the fourth most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $2.4k per month, a cost of living index of 85.9, a local purchasing power index of 95.6, and a rent index of 85.3. Singapore has a purchasing power much lower than other countries, leading to its relatively high cost of living.
Liechtenstein, the fifth most expensive country to live in, has a cost of living of $2.1k per month. Liechtenstein’s high cost of living is attributed to its small size and limited resources, leading to high import costs. The sixth, seventh, and eighth most expensive countries to live in are the United States, Iceland, and Luxembourg, with a cost of living of $2.1k per month, a cost of living index of 72.4, a local purchasing power index of 115.7, and a rent index of 47.1 for the US, a cost of living of $2.1k per month, a cost of living index of 83.3, a local purchasing power index of 90.1, and a rent index of 36.7 for Iceland, and a cost of living of $2k per month, a cost of living index of 73.2, a local purchasing power index of 127.1, and a rent index of 48.3 for Luxembourg.
Ireland is the ninth most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $2k per month, a cost of living index of 70.5, a local purchasing power index of 82.6, and a rent index of 44.4. Ireland’s high cost of living is attributed to its strong economy and high salaries. Finally, Australia is the tenth most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $1.9k per month, a cost of living index of 75.3, a local purchasing power index of 110.9, and a rent index of 39. The country’s high cost of living is primarily driven by its high housing costs.
The ten most expensive countries are :
1. Monaco – $3,585
2. Cayman Islands – $2,888
3. Switzerland – $2,507
4. Singapore – $2,420
5. Liechtenstein – $2,118
6. United States – $2,112
7. Iceland – $2,054
8. Luxembourg – $2,050
9. Ireland – $1,974
10. Australia – $1,947
Most Expensive Country in the World
Monaco, a small city-state located in Western Europe, is the most expensive country to live in in the world according to our data. This is primarily due to the extremely high cost of housing, with the average cost of rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Monaco is around $4,000 per month. However, the high cost of living in Monaco is offset by its tax-friendly policies and luxurious lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for the wealthy.
Despite its small size, Monaco is home to a large number of millionaires and billionaires, with its wealthy population contributing to the high cost of living. The city-state is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, featuring high-end restaurants, luxury boutiques, and world-class entertainment. In addition, Monaco is known for hosting a number of high-profile events, such as the Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Rally, which further contribute to its status as a playground for the rich and famous. However, the high cost of living in Monaco can be prohibitive for many, and it is important for anyone considering a move to this city-state to carefully consider their financial situation before making the move.
Sources
The data we display on the cost of living in dollars comes from LivingCost.org. This site provides cost of living data for over 200 countries and is based on prices for goods and services that are representative of the typical expenses of people in each country. The source we use for the three indexes – cost of living index, local purchasing power index, and rent index – is Numbeo, i.e. a crowd-sourced database of cost of living data that provides information on the cost of living in over 4,000 cities worldwide.
Cost of Living by Country
Afghanistan
$397
Ranked in the World
#186
Albania
$592
Ranked in the World
#139
Cost of Living Index
37.4
Ranked in the World
#90
Local Purchasing Power Index
30.1
Ranked in the World
#100
Rent Index
9.1
Ranked in the World
#108
Algeria
$391
Ranked in the World
#187
Cost of Living Index
27.6
Ranked in the World
#126
Local Purchasing Power Index
26.9
Ranked in the World
#109
Rent Index
4.3
Ranked in the World
#136
Andorra
$1,104
Ranked in the World
#48
Angola
$1,129
Ranked in the World
#46
Antigua and Barbuda
$1,546
Ranked in the World
#24
Argentina
$576
Ranked in the World
#145
Cost of Living Index
31.2
Ranked in the World
#114
Local Purchasing Power Index
36.8
Ranked in the World
#83
Rent Index
6.9
Ranked in the World
#127
Armenia
$884
Ranked in the World
#79
Cost of Living Index
40.8
Ranked in the World
#76
Local Purchasing Power Index
25.5
Ranked in the World
#112
Rent Index
23.5
Ranked in the World
#33
Australia
$1,947
Ranked in the World
#10
Cost of Living Index
75.3
Ranked in the World
#13
Local Purchasing Power Index
110.9
Ranked in the World
#7
Rent Index
39
Ranked in the World
#13
Australia is the tenth most expensive country in the world with a cost of living of $1,947.This is reflected in its cost of living index, which stands at 75.3, and its rent index, which is 39. The country's local purchasing power index is also relatively high at 110.9, meaning that goods and services are costly despite Australians' ability to purchase them. Several factors contribute to the high cost of living in Australia, including high taxation, high minimum wage, and high demand for housing and resources. However, despite the cost, many people still find Australia an attractive destination due to its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and high quality of life.
Austria
$1,467
Ranked in the World
#25
Cost of Living Index
66
Ranked in the World
#26
Local Purchasing Power Index
91.2
Ranked in the World
#23
Rent Index
23.1
Ranked in the World
#35
Azerbaijan
$522
Ranked in the World
#161
Cost of Living Index
28.9
Ranked in the World
#121
Local Purchasing Power Index
32
Ranked in the World
#94
Rent Index
7.5
Ranked in the World
#121
Bahrain
$1,171
Ranked in the World
#41
Cost of Living Index
52.7
Ranked in the World
#48
Local Purchasing Power Index
81.7
Ranked in the World
#30
Rent Index
25.4
Ranked in the World
#31
Bangladesh
$448
Ranked in the World
#178
Cost of Living Index
26.6
Ranked in the World
#129
Local Purchasing Power Index
26.9
Ranked in the World
#110
Rent Index
3.2
Ranked in the World
#140
Barbados
$1,262
Ranked in the World
#35
Cost of Living Index
88.8
Ranked in the World
#5
Local Purchasing Power Index
36.8
Ranked in the World
#84
Rent Index
21.2
Ranked in the World
#42
Belarus
$581
Ranked in the World
#143
Cost of Living Index
35.4
Ranked in the World
#97
Local Purchasing Power Index
36.4
Ranked in the World
#85
Rent Index
10
Ranked in the World
#95
Belgium
$1,324
Ranked in the World
#31
Cost of Living Index
65.6
Ranked in the World
#28
Local Purchasing Power Index
94.5
Ranked in the World
#21
Rent Index
22.4
Ranked in the World
#38
Belize
$840
Ranked in the World
#89
Cost of Living Index
48
Ranked in the World
#59
Local Purchasing Power Index
49.2
Ranked in the World
#62
Rent Index
11.7
Ranked in the World
#85
Benin
$645
Ranked in the World
#127
Bhutan
$498
Ranked in the World
#174
Bolivia
$703
Ranked in the World
#116
Cost of Living Index
31.9
Ranked in the World
#111
Local Purchasing Power Index
37.4
Ranked in the World
#80
Rent Index
8.2
Ranked in the World
#115
Bosnia and Herzegovina
$546
Ranked in the World
#155
Cost of Living Index
35.1
Ranked in the World
#99
Local Purchasing Power Index
48.6
Ranked in the World
#63
Rent Index
5.9
Ranked in the World
#128
Botswana
$607
Ranked in the World
#136
Cost of Living Index
34.4
Ranked in the World
#103
Local Purchasing Power Index
63.6
Ranked in the World
#45
Rent Index
7.5
Ranked in the World
#122
Brazil
$661
Ranked in the World
#123
Cost of Living Index
34.7
Ranked in the World
#102
Local Purchasing Power Index
28.7
Ranked in the World
#106
Rent Index
8.3
Ranked in the World
#111
Brunei
$1,066
Ranked in the World
#51
Cost of Living Index
55.2
Ranked in the World
#41
Local Purchasing Power Index
60.7
Ranked in the World
#50
Rent Index
17.9
Ranked in the World
#51
Bulgaria
$639
Ranked in the World
#128
Cost of Living Index
40.5
Ranked in the World
#80
Local Purchasing Power Index
51.2
Ranked in the World
#60
Rent Index
10
Ranked in the World
#96
Burkina Faso
$677
Ranked in the World
#119
Burundi
$508
Ranked in the World
#168
Cambodia
$796
Ranked in the World
#99
Cost of Living Index
44.5
Ranked in the World
#67
Local Purchasing Power Index
15.5
Ranked in the World
#133
Rent Index
13.8
Ranked in the World
#71
Cameroon
$560
Ranked in the World
#149
Cost of Living Index
33.6
Ranked in the World
#105
Local Purchasing Power Index
18.4
Ranked in the World
#130
Rent Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#129
Canada
$1,832
Ranked in the World
#14
Cost of Living Index
66.1
Ranked in the World
#25
Local Purchasing Power Index
102.1
Ranked in the World
#12
Rent Index
33.4
Ranked in the World
#17
Canada is an expensive country to live in with a cost of living of $1,832 per month and ranks as the fourteenth most expensive country in the world to live in. Canada sees daily essentials such as food and rent becoming increasingly expensive every year. The price of basic utilities such as water and electricity can be double what they are in other nations. However, Canada has one of the cheapest gasoline prices among developed nations thanks to its oil reserves. This means that traveling around is still fairly cheap albeit inflation continues to make everything else more expensive.
Cayman Islands
$2,888
Ranked in the World
#2
Cost of Living Index
103.4
Ranked in the World
#3
Local Purchasing Power Index
76.7
Ranked in the World
#35
Rent Index
75.7
Ranked in the World
#3
The Cayman Islands is the second most expensive country to live in with a cost of living of $2,888. The high cost of living in the Cayman Islands is attributed to several factors, including a strong economy, high demand for imported goods and services, and a thriving tourism industry. Despite the high cost of living, the country enjoys a high standard of living and a favorable tax regime, which attracts wealthy expatriates from around the world. In terms of its cost of living index, the Cayman Islands score 103.4, indicating that goods and services are expensive compared to other countries. Its local purchasing power index, however, is relatively low at 76.7, suggesting that residents have less purchasing power despite the high cost of living. The rent index stands at 75.7, indicating that housing is also expensive in the country.
Central African Republic
$515
Ranked in the World
#165
Chad
$518
Ranked in the World
#163
Chile
$840
Ranked in the World
#90
Cost of Living Index
44.1
Ranked in the World
#69
Local Purchasing Power Index
37.3
Ranked in the World
#81
Rent Index
13.4
Ranked in the World
#76
Colombia
$548
Ranked in the World
#153
Cost of Living Index
23.1
Ranked in the World
#137
Local Purchasing Power Index
31.1
Ranked in the World
#97
Rent Index
7
Ranked in the World
#126
Comoros
$504
Ranked in the World
#170
Costa Rica
$893
Ranked in the World
#77
Cost of Living Index
48.8
Ranked in the World
#56
Local Purchasing Power Index
41.5
Ranked in the World
#68
Rent Index
14.9
Ranked in the World
#64
Croatia
$896
Ranked in the World
#75
Cost of Living Index
46.7
Ranked in the World
#64
Local Purchasing Power Index
56.2
Ranked in the World
#53
Rent Index
12.2
Ranked in the World
#81
Cuba
$1,078
Ranked in the World
#50
Cost of Living Index
52.6
Ranked in the World
#49
Local Purchasing Power Index
1.6
Ranked in the World
#140
Rent Index
16
Ranked in the World
#57
Cyprus
$1,213
Ranked in the World
#38
Cost of Living Index
55.9
Ranked in the World
#40
Local Purchasing Power Index
54.8
Ranked in the World
#54
Rent Index
27.4
Ranked in the World
#26
Czech Republic
$1,007
Ranked in the World
#62
Cost of Living Index
48.9
Ranked in the World
#55
Local Purchasing Power Index
71.8
Ranked in the World
#37
Rent Index
19.1
Ranked in the World
#49
Democratic Republic of the Congo
$1,001
Ranked in the World
#63
Denmark
$1,665
Ranked in the World
#20
Cost of Living Index
78.6
Ranked in the World
#10
Local Purchasing Power Index
105
Ranked in the World
#11
Rent Index
30.4
Ranked in the World
#22
Djibouti
$548
Ranked in the World
#154
Dominica
$992
Ranked in the World
#65
Dominican Republic
$791
Ranked in the World
#101
Cost of Living Index
41.8
Ranked in the World
#74
Local Purchasing Power Index
23
Ranked in the World
#118
Rent Index
11.9
Ranked in the World
#83
East Timor
$503
Ranked in the World
#171
Ecuador
$750
Ranked in the World
#105
Cost of Living Index
35.1
Ranked in the World
#100
Local Purchasing Power Index
37
Ranked in the World
#82
Rent Index
9.7
Ranked in the World
#101
Egypt
$418
Ranked in the World
#182
Cost of Living Index
21.6
Ranked in the World
#139
Local Purchasing Power Index
21.9
Ranked in the World
#122
Rent Index
4.3
Ranked in the World
#137
El Salvador
$853
Ranked in the World
#86
Cost of Living Index
43.3
Ranked in the World
#70
Local Purchasing Power Index
22.7
Ranked in the World
#119
Rent Index
14.8
Ranked in the World
#66
Equatorial Guinea
$871
Ranked in the World
#81
Eritrea
$516
Ranked in the World
#164
Estonia
$1,019
Ranked in the World
#58
Cost of Living Index
54.8
Ranked in the World
#43
Local Purchasing Power Index
61.4
Ranked in the World
#49
Rent Index
16.4
Ranked in the World
#56
Eswatini
$728
Ranked in the World
#111
Ethiopia
$732
Ranked in the World
#110
Cost of Living Index
42.3
Ranked in the World
#72
Local Purchasing Power Index
11.6
Ranked in the World
#136
Rent Index
17.1
Ranked in the World
#53
Fiji
$725
Ranked in the World
#112
Cost of Living Index
38.5
Ranked in the World
#88
Local Purchasing Power Index
65.5
Ranked in the World
#42
Rent Index
15.1
Ranked in the World
#63
Finland
$1,423
Ranked in the World
#26
Cost of Living Index
67.5
Ranked in the World
#23
Local Purchasing Power Index
98.8
Ranked in the World
#17
Rent Index
22.7
Ranked in the World
#36
France
$1,363
Ranked in the World
#29
Cost of Living Index
68.7
Ranked in the World
#21
Local Purchasing Power Index
86.2
Ranked in the World
#25
Rent Index
24.6
Ranked in the World
#32
Gabon
$606
Ranked in the World
#137
Georgia
$812
Ranked in the World
#97
Cost of Living Index
38.9
Ranked in the World
#84
Local Purchasing Power Index
25.9
Ranked in the World
#111
Rent Index
19.3
Ranked in the World
#47
Germany
$1,325
Ranked in the World
#30
Cost of Living Index
62.9
Ranked in the World
#30
Local Purchasing Power Index
107.6
Ranked in the World
#10
Rent Index
26.1
Ranked in the World
#29
Ghana
$581
Ranked in the World
#144
Cost of Living Index
26.7
Ranked in the World
#128
Local Purchasing Power Index
17.2
Ranked in the World
#131
Rent Index
14.6
Ranked in the World
#67
Greece
$919
Ranked in the World
#71
Cost of Living Index
54.6
Ranked in the World
#44
Local Purchasing Power Index
41.9
Ranked in the World
#67
Rent Index
12.9
Ranked in the World
#78
Grenada
$1,012
Ranked in the World
#60
Guatemala
$910
Ranked in the World
#74
Cost of Living Index
40.2
Ranked in the World
#81
Local Purchasing Power Index
29.7
Ranked in the World
#103
Rent Index
13.8
Ranked in the World
#72
Guinea
$933
Ranked in the World
#70
Guinea-Bissau
$628
Ranked in the World
#130
Guyana
$838
Ranked in the World
#91
Cost of Living Index
47.3
Ranked in the World
#61
Local Purchasing Power Index
23.3
Ranked in the World
#117
Rent Index
9.5
Ranked in the World
#103
Haiti
$515
Ranked in the World
#166
Honduras
$771
Ranked in the World
#102
Cost of Living Index
38.8
Ranked in the World
#86
Local Purchasing Power Index
35.4
Ranked in the World
#87
Rent Index
9.3
Ranked in the World
#104
Hungary
$712
Ranked in the World
#115
Cost of Living Index
39.2
Ranked in the World
#82
Local Purchasing Power Index
53.1
Ranked in the World
#55
Rent Index
11.6
Ranked in the World
#86
Iceland
$2,054
Ranked in the World
#7
Cost of Living Index
83.3
Ranked in the World
#8
Local Purchasing Power Index
90.1
Ranked in the World
#24
Rent Index
36.7
Ranked in the World
#14
Iceland is the seventh most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $2,054. Iceland has a cost of living index of 83.3, which is relatively high, and a rent index of 36.7, which is lower than many other developed countries. The local purchasing power index stands at 90.1, indicating that goods and services are expensive compared to the average income in Iceland. Iceland's isolation and small population contribute to its high cost of living. It is also a country with a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and an exceptional education system. The country is known for its stunning natural scenery, which attracts tourists from around the world. It also has a relatively low crime rate, a low poverty rate, and a high quality of life.
India
$416
Ranked in the World
#183
Cost of Living Index
22.4
Ranked in the World
#138
Local Purchasing Power Index
64.6
Ranked in the World
#43
Rent Index
5.5
Ranked in the World
#131
Indonesia
$564
Ranked in the World
#148
Cost of Living Index
31.2
Ranked in the World
#115
Local Purchasing Power Index
27.5
Ranked in the World
#108
Rent Index
8.3
Ranked in the World
#112
Iran
$723
Ranked in the World
#113
Cost of Living Index
35.2
Ranked in the World
#98
Local Purchasing Power Index
21.1
Ranked in the World
#126
Rent Index
14.6
Ranked in the World
#68
Iraq
$688
Ranked in the World
#117
Cost of Living Index
31.4
Ranked in the World
#112
Local Purchasing Power Index
44.5
Ranked in the World
#64
Rent Index
9.2
Ranked in the World
#107
Ireland
$1,974
Ranked in the World
#9
Cost of Living Index
70.5
Ranked in the World
#18
Local Purchasing Power Index
82.6
Ranked in the World
#28
Rent Index
44.4
Ranked in the World
#11
Ireland is the ninth most expensive country in the world, with a cost of living of $1,974. Ireland has a cost of living index of 70.5, which is relatively low compared to many other developed countries. However, the rent index is 44.4, which is comparatively high. Ireland's local purchasing power index stands at 82.6, indicating that goods and services are relatively expensive compared to the average income in the country. Ireland's high cost of living is due to several factors, including the high demand for housing and the high cost of healthcare. However, Ireland is also known for its excellent education system and its strong economy, which attracts many foreign investors. The country also has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its friendly people and stunning landscapes.
Israel
$1,748
Ranked in the World
#17
Cost of Living Index
76.4
Ranked in the World
#11
Local Purchasing Power Index
80.5
Ranked in the World
#31
Rent Index
30.4
Ranked in the World
#23
Italy
$1,221
Ranked in the World
#37
Cost of Living Index
61.3
Ranked in the World
#35
Local Purchasing Power Index
66.5
Ranked in the World
#40
Rent Index
20.5
Ranked in the World
#44
Italy has an expensive cost of living at $1.2k per month and ranks the nation thirty-seventh most expensive country in the world to live in. Rent prices in cities like Rome and Milan are among the highest in Europe. Food costs can be high too with everyday items such as bread, fruit and vegetables tending to be pricier than elsewhere on the continent due to their limited availability in some areas. Wages lag far behind both inflation and rising real estate costs that contribute to expensive living costs in Italy. All these factors mean that living expenses in Italy are consistently more expensive than in the rest of Europe.
Ivory Coast
$845
Ranked in the World
#88
Cost of Living Index
42.7
Ranked in the World
#71
Local Purchasing Power Index
7.8
Ranked in the World
#138
Rent Index
15.5
Ranked in the World
#61
Jamaica
$875
Ranked in the World
#80
Cost of Living Index
53.6
Ranked in the World
#46
Local Purchasing Power Index
28.9
Ranked in the World
#105
Rent Index
13.6
Ranked in the World
#74
Japan
$1,171
Ranked in the World
#42
Cost of Living Index
64.6
Ranked in the World
#29
Local Purchasing Power Index
100.4
Ranked in the World
#15
Rent Index
20.8
Ranked in the World
#43
Japan is a costly country to reside in with a cost of living of $1.1k per month, ranking the East Asian nation as the forty-second most expensive country in the world to live in. This is largely attributed to Tokyo's high cost of living where prices for food, clothing, and entertainment are all above average. Japan's taxes are also relatively high compared to other countries making everyday expenses such as transportation, utility bills, and healthcare more expensive than usual. Japan also has some unique laws when it comes to housing rental agreements which can make renting an apartment or a home a difficult process that could result in hefty costs for tenants.
Jordan
$835
Ranked in the World
#92
Cost of Living Index
46.8
Ranked in the World
#62
Local Purchasing Power Index
38
Ranked in the World
#78
Rent Index
8.8
Ranked in the World
#110
Kazakhstan
$475
Ranked in the World
#176
Cost of Living Index
28.1
Ranked in the World
#124
Local Purchasing Power Index
38.1
Ranked in the World
#76
Rent Index
11.5
Ranked in the World
#87
Kenya
$608
Ranked in the World
#135
Cost of Living Index
32.4
Ranked in the World
#107
Local Purchasing Power Index
32.8
Ranked in the World
#92
Rent Index
7.8
Ranked in the World
#119
Kuwait
$1,312
Ranked in the World
#32
Cost of Living Index
46.8
Ranked in the World
#63
Local Purchasing Power Index
96.7
Ranked in the World
#18
Rent Index
27.1
Ranked in the World
#27
Kyrgyzstan
$441
Ranked in the World
#179
Cost of Living Index
25.9
Ranked in the World
#132
Local Purchasing Power Index
25.5
Ranked in the World
#113
Rent Index
9.3
Ranked in the World
#105
Laos
$894
Ranked in the World
#76
Latvia
$860
Ranked in the World
#84
Cost of Living Index
50.9
Ranked in the World
#50
Local Purchasing Power Index
52.9
Ranked in the World
#56
Rent Index
10.9
Ranked in the World
#91
Lebanon
$1,254
Ranked in the World
#36
Cost of Living Index
65.8
Ranked in the World
#27
Local Purchasing Power Index
22.7
Ranked in the World
#120
Rent Index
19.2
Ranked in the World
#48
Lesotho
$589
Ranked in the World
#140
Liberia
$522
Ranked in the World
#162
Libya
$398
Ranked in the World
#185
Cost of Living Index
24.2
Ranked in the World
#136
Local Purchasing Power Index
32.1
Ranked in the World
#93
Rent Index
5.2
Ranked in the World
#133
Liechtenstein
$2,118
Ranked in the World
#5
Liechtenstein is the fifth most expensive country in the world with a cost of living of $2,118. The small landlocked country is known for its picturesque landscapes, low taxes, and high standard of living. The high cost of living is attributed to factors such as high wages, a small economy, and a high demand for imported goods and services. Despite the high cost of living, Liechtenstein remains an attractive destination for wealthy expatriates looking for a high quality of life and a favorable tax regime.
Lithuania
$859
Ranked in the World
#85
Cost of Living Index
48.8
Ranked in the World
#57
Local Purchasing Power Index
56.7
Ranked in the World
#51
Rent Index
16.8
Ranked in the World
#54
Luxembourg
$2,050
Ranked in the World
#8
Cost of Living Index
73.2
Ranked in the World
#14
Local Purchasing Power Index
127.1
Ranked in the World
#2
Rent Index
48.3
Ranked in the World
#8
Luxembourg is the eighth most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $2,050. Luxembourg has a cost of living index of 73.2, which is lower than many other developed countries. However, the rent index is 48.3, which is relatively high. Luxembourg's local purchasing power index is 127.1, indicating that the cost of goods and services is high compared to the average income in the country. Luxembourg is a small country with a high standard of living and a strong economy. The country is known for its banking industry, which attracts many wealthy individuals and contributes to its high cost of living. Luxembourg has a low poverty rate, a low unemployment rate, and excellent healthcare and education systems. The country also has a high standard of living, with a variety of cultural and leisure activities available.
Madagascar
$628
Ranked in the World
#131
Malawi
$553
Ranked in the World
#151
Malaysia
$574
Ranked in the World
#146
Cost of Living Index
35
Ranked in the World
#101
Local Purchasing Power Index
65.7
Ranked in the World
#41
Rent Index
9.8
Ranked in the World
#99
Maldives
$1,188
Ranked in the World
#39
Cost of Living Index
55
Ranked in the World
#42
Local Purchasing Power Index
33.9
Ranked in the World
#88
Rent Index
27
Ranked in the World
#28
Mali
$536
Ranked in the World
#157
Malta
$1,275
Ranked in the World
#33
Cost of Living Index
61.4
Ranked in the World
#34
Local Purchasing Power Index
50.6
Ranked in the World
#61
Rent Index
25.7
Ranked in the World
#30
Marshall Islands
$1,271
Ranked in the World
#34
Mauritania
$739
Ranked in the World
#109
Mauritius
$629
Ranked in the World
#129
Cost of Living Index
42.2
Ranked in the World
#73
Local Purchasing Power Index
30.8
Ranked in the World
#99
Rent Index
10.9
Ranked in the World
#92
Mexico
$713
Ranked in the World
#114
Cost of Living Index
37.3
Ranked in the World
#92
Local Purchasing Power Index
43.5
Ranked in the World
#65
Rent Index
12.8
Ranked in the World
#79
Moldova
$501
Ranked in the World
#173
Cost of Living Index
32.3
Ranked in the World
#109
Local Purchasing Power Index
33.1
Ranked in the World
#91
Rent Index
8.3
Ranked in the World
#113
Monaco
$3,585
Ranked in the World
#1
Monaco is the most expensive country in the world with a cost of living of $3,585. This small European country, located on the French Riviera, is known for its luxurious lifestyle and high prices. Monaco's expensive cost of living is due to several factors, including the limited space available for housing and the high demand for property, which drives up rent prices. The country's tax haven status also attracts wealthy individuals and businesses, increasing the demand for luxury goods and services. In addition, Monaco has a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and public services, which contribute to its high cost of living.
Mongolia
$546
Ranked in the World
#156
Cost of Living Index
31.2
Ranked in the World
#116
Local Purchasing Power Index
24.3
Ranked in the World
#116
Rent Index
8.3
Ranked in the World
#114
Montenegro
$655
Ranked in the World
#125
Cost of Living Index
38.9
Ranked in the World
#85
Local Purchasing Power Index
40.4
Ranked in the World
#70
Rent Index
13.5
Ranked in the World
#75
Morocco
$586
Ranked in the World
#142
Cost of Living Index
29.3
Ranked in the World
#120
Local Purchasing Power Index
33.6
Ranked in the World
#89
Rent Index
7.5
Ranked in the World
#123
Mozambique
$1,042
Ranked in the World
#54
Myanmar
$822
Ranked in the World
#94
Cost of Living Index
32.9
Ranked in the World
#106
Local Purchasing Power Index
29.7
Ranked in the World
#104
Rent Index
20
Ranked in the World
#45
Namibia
$819
Ranked in the World
#95
Cost of Living Index
35.8
Ranked in the World
#95
Local Purchasing Power Index
51.3
Ranked in the World
#59
Rent Index
11.8
Ranked in the World
#84
Nauru
$624
Ranked in the World
#133
Nepal
$385
Ranked in the World
#188
Cost of Living Index
24.8
Ranked in the World
#135
Local Purchasing Power Index
21.8
Ranked in the World
#123
Rent Index
3.7
Ranked in the World
#138
Netherlands
$1,680
Ranked in the World
#18
Cost of Living Index
68.6
Ranked in the World
#22
Local Purchasing Power Index
107.8
Ranked in the World
#9
Rent Index
33.4
Ranked in the World
#18
New Zealand
$1,669
Ranked in the World
#19
Cost of Living Index
72.9
Ranked in the World
#15
Local Purchasing Power Index
93
Ranked in the World
#22
Rent Index
31.9
Ranked in the World
#20
Nicaragua
$625
Ranked in the World
#132
Cost of Living Index
36.8
Ranked in the World
#94
Local Purchasing Power Index
21.7
Ranked in the World
#124
Rent Index
7.8
Ranked in the World
#120
Niger
$885
Ranked in the World
#78
Nigeria
$1,008
Ranked in the World
#61
Cost of Living Index
30.9
Ranked in the World
#117
Local Purchasing Power Index
8.4
Ranked in the World
#137
Rent Index
33.3
Ranked in the World
#19
North Korea
$1,554
Ranked in the World
#23
Norway
$1,892
Ranked in the World
#11
Cost of Living Index
88.6
Ranked in the World
#6
Local Purchasing Power Index
95
Ranked in the World
#20
Rent Index
30.9
Ranked in the World
#21
Norway has a cost of living of $1.9k per month and ranks as the eleventh most expensive country in the world to live in. Norway has high standards of living with living expenses also being quite high too, as seen by Norway’s rent prices which on average are almost four times higher than those found elsewhere in Europe or North America. Income tax rates are also considered significant in Norway ranging from 0-2% for those earning less than $19.3k per annum, and up to 12% for those earning over $2 million per annum, making it difficult for locals and expatriates alike to make ends meet without having some sort of financial safety net.
Oman
$1,126
Ranked in the World
#47
Cost of Living Index
47.8
Ranked in the World
#60
Local Purchasing Power Index
108.2
Ranked in the World
#8
Rent Index
15.8
Ranked in the World
#60
Pakistan
$294
Ranked in the World
#190
Cost of Living Index
18
Ranked in the World
#140
Local Purchasing Power Index
24.4
Ranked in the World
#115
Rent Index
3.4
Ranked in the World
#139
Palau
$1,162
Ranked in the World
#43
Palestine
$916
Ranked in the World
#72
Cost of Living Index
50.7
Ranked in the World
#52
Local Purchasing Power Index
39.8
Ranked in the World
#71
Rent Index
9.6
Ranked in the World
#102
Panama
$1,040
Ranked in the World
#56
Cost of Living Index
48.2
Ranked in the World
#58
Local Purchasing Power Index
36.4
Ranked in the World
#86
Rent Index
19.7
Ranked in the World
#46
Papua New Guinea
$524
Ranked in the World
#160
Paraguay
$555
Ranked in the World
#150
Cost of Living Index
28.6
Ranked in the World
#122
Local Purchasing Power Index
27.8
Ranked in the World
#107
Rent Index
9.3
Ranked in the World
#106
People's Republic of China
$758
Ranked in the World
#104
Cost of Living Index
39.2
Ranked in the World
#83
Local Purchasing Power Index
62.3
Ranked in the World
#46
Rent Index
18.8
Ranked in the World
#50
Peru
$672
Ranked in the World
#120
Cost of Living Index
32.4
Ranked in the World
#108
Local Purchasing Power Index
31.3
Ranked in the World
#96
Rent Index
11.1
Ranked in the World
#90
Philippines
$587
Ranked in the World
#141
Cost of Living Index
34
Ranked in the World
#104
Local Purchasing Power Index
22.4
Ranked in the World
#121
Rent Index
9.8
Ranked in the World
#100
Poland
$814
Ranked in the World
#96
Cost of Living Index
38.6
Ranked in the World
#87
Local Purchasing Power Index
64
Ranked in the World
#44
Rent Index
16
Ranked in the World
#58
Portugal
$977
Ranked in the World
#67
Cost of Living Index
45.3
Ranked in the World
#66
Local Purchasing Power Index
51.7
Ranked in the World
#58
Rent Index
21.9
Ranked in the World
#40
Qatar
$1,891
Ranked in the World
#12
Cost of Living Index
59.5
Ranked in the World
#38
Local Purchasing Power Index
123.6
Ranked in the World
#3
Rent Index
50
Ranked in the World
#7
Republic of Macedonia
$512
Ranked in the World
#167
Cost of Living Index
31.4
Ranked in the World
#113
Local Purchasing Power Index
38.2
Ranked in the World
#75
Rent Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#130
Republic of the Congo
$550
Ranked in the World
#152
Romania
$650
Ranked in the World
#126
Cost of Living Index
37.4
Ranked in the World
#91
Local Purchasing Power Index
52.5
Ranked in the World
#57
Rent Index
9.9
Ranked in the World
#97
Russia
$868
Ranked in the World
#82
Cost of Living Index
40.8
Ranked in the World
#77
Local Purchasing Power Index
40.9
Ranked in the World
#69
Rent Index
12.8
Ranked in the World
#80
Rwanda
$664
Ranked in the World
#122
Cost of Living Index
30
Ranked in the World
#119
Local Purchasing Power Index
30
Ranked in the World
#101
Rent Index
14.2
Ranked in the World
#69
Saint Kitts and Nevis
$1,184
Ranked in the World
#40
Saint Lucia
$1,042
Ranked in the World
#55
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
$863
Ranked in the World
#83
San Marino
$1,018
Ranked in the World
#59
São Tomé and Príncipe
$795
Ranked in the World
#100
Saudi Arabia
$1,020
Ranked in the World
#57
Cost of Living Index
50.6
Ranked in the World
#53
Local Purchasing Power Index
101.9
Ranked in the World
#13
Rent Index
12
Ranked in the World
#82
Senegal
$969
Ranked in the World
#69
Cost of Living Index
46.4
Ranked in the World
#65
Local Purchasing Power Index
21.7
Ranked in the World
#125
Rent Index
22.2
Ranked in the World
#39
Serbia
$667
Ranked in the World
#121
Cost of Living Index
37.2
Ranked in the World
#93
Local Purchasing Power Index
39.6
Ranked in the World
#72
Rent Index
10.6
Ranked in the World
#94
Seychelles
$1,387
Ranked in the World
#28
Sierra Leone
$748
Ranked in the World
#106
Singapore
$2,420
Ranked in the World
#4
Cost of Living Index
85.9
Ranked in the World
#7
Local Purchasing Power Index
95.6
Ranked in the World
#19
Rent Index
85.3
Ranked in the World
#2
Singapore is the fourth most expensive country to live in with a cost of living of $2,420. The high cost of living in Singapore is due to various factors, including high wages, a thriving economy, and a high standard of living. Despite the high cost of living, Singapore remains an attractive destination for many expatriates, given its favorable tax regime, political stability, and excellent infrastructure. Singapore's cost of living index is 85.9, which is relatively lower than other expensive countries in the world. Its local purchasing power index is 95.6, suggesting that residents have a higher purchasing power compared to other countries. Housing in Singapore is expensive, as reflected by the rent index of 85.3, which is higher than the cost of living index.
Slovakia
$913
Ranked in the World
#73
Cost of Living Index
44.2
Ranked in the World
#68
Local Purchasing Power Index
56.3
Ranked in the World
#52
Rent Index
14.9
Ranked in the World
#65
Slovenia
$1,059
Ranked in the World
#53
Cost of Living Index
50.8
Ranked in the World
#51
Local Purchasing Power Index
61.7
Ranked in the World
#48
Rent Index
16.6
Ranked in the World
#55
Solomon Islands
$1,577
Ranked in the World
#22
Somalia
$797
Ranked in the World
#98
South Africa
$852
Ranked in the World
#87
Cost of Living Index
37.8
Ranked in the World
#89
Local Purchasing Power Index
83.9
Ranked in the World
#27
Rent Index
14
Ranked in the World
#70
South Korea
$1,062
Ranked in the World
#52
Cost of Living Index
70.4
Ranked in the World
#19
Local Purchasing Power Index
85.5
Ranked in the World
#26
Rent Index
17.5
Ranked in the World
#52
South Sudan
$505
Ranked in the World
#169
Spain
$1,141
Ranked in the World
#45
Cost of Living Index
50.6
Ranked in the World
#54
Local Purchasing Power Index
82.5
Ranked in the World
#29
Rent Index
21.7
Ranked in the World
#41
Sri Lanka
$316
Ranked in the World
#189
Cost of Living Index
25.3
Ranked in the World
#134
Local Purchasing Power Index
16
Ranked in the World
#132
Rent Index
5.4
Ranked in the World
#132
Sudan
$657
Ranked in the World
#124
Suriname
$679
Ranked in the World
#118
Sweden
$1,398
Ranked in the World
#27
Cost of Living Index
62.9
Ranked in the World
#31
Local Purchasing Power Index
101.2
Ranked in the World
#14
Rent Index
22.7
Ranked in the World
#37
Switzerland
$2,507
Ranked in the World
#3
Cost of Living Index
114.2
Ranked in the World
#2
Local Purchasing Power Index
118.7
Ranked in the World
#5
Rent Index
50.2
Ranked in the World
#6
Switzerland is the third most expensive country in the world with a cost of living of $2,507. The mountainous and landlocked nation of Switzerland is known for its high standard of living, quality of life, and scenic beauty, making it an attractive destination for tourists and expatriates. The country's high cost of living is attributed to several factors, including high wages, high taxes, and a strong economy. Switzerland has a cost of living index of 114.2, which is among the highest in the world. However, its local purchasing power index is also high at 118.7, suggesting that despite the high cost of living, residents have a high purchasing power. In contrast, the rent index in Switzerland is relatively low at 50.2, indicating that housing costs are not as high compared to other expenses in the country.
Syria
$503
Ranked in the World
#172
Cost of Living Index
26.1
Ranked in the World
#131
Local Purchasing Power Index
5.5
Ranked in the World
#139
Rent Index
4.5
Ranked in the World
#135
Taiwan
$981
Ranked in the World
#66
Cost of Living Index
54.2
Ranked in the World
#45
Local Purchasing Power Index
71.3
Ranked in the World
#38
Rent Index
15.3
Ranked in the World
#62
Tajikistan
$491
Ranked in the World
#175
Tanzania
$743
Ranked in the World
#107
Cost of Living Index
30.8
Ranked in the World
#118
Local Purchasing Power Index
20.5
Ranked in the World
#127
Rent Index
9.9
Ranked in the World
#98
Thailand
$742
Ranked in the World
#108
Cost of Living Index
40.7
Ranked in the World
#79
Local Purchasing Power Index
33.2
Ranked in the World
#90
Rent Index
13.3
Ranked in the World
#77
The Bahamas
$1,809
Ranked in the World
#15
Cost of Living Index
90.9
Ranked in the World
#4
Local Purchasing Power Index
43.2
Ranked in the World
#66
Rent Index
39.6
Ranked in the World
#12
The Gambia
$425
Ranked in the World
#181
Togo
$594
Ranked in the World
#138
Trinidad and Tobago
$977
Ranked in the World
#68
Cost of Living Index
53.3
Ranked in the World
#47
Local Purchasing Power Index
38.9
Ranked in the World
#73
Rent Index
13.7
Ranked in the World
#73
Tunisia
$416
Ranked in the World
#184
Cost of Living Index
26.5
Ranked in the World
#130
Local Purchasing Power Index
30
Ranked in the World
#102
Rent Index
5
Ranked in the World
#134
Turkey
$428
Ranked in the World
#180
Cost of Living Index
28.1
Ranked in the World
#125
Local Purchasing Power Index
31
Ranked in the World
#98
Rent Index
7.2
Ranked in the World
#125
Turkmenistan
$1,159
Ranked in the World
#44
Uganda
$574
Ranked in the World
#147
Cost of Living Index
32.1
Ranked in the World
#110
Local Purchasing Power Index
12.5
Ranked in the World
#134
Rent Index
9
Ranked in the World
#109
Ukraine
$458
Ranked in the World
#177
Cost of Living Index
25.6
Ranked in the World
#133
Local Purchasing Power Index
38.1
Ranked in the World
#77
Rent Index
8.1
Ranked in the World
#116
United Arab Emirates
$1,660
Ranked in the World
#21
Cost of Living Index
60.3
Ranked in the World
#36
Local Purchasing Power Index
123.4
Ranked in the World
#4
Rent Index
34
Ranked in the World
#16
United Kingdom
$1,804
Ranked in the World
#16
Cost of Living Index
61.5
Ranked in the World
#33
Local Purchasing Power Index
98.9
Ranked in the World
#16
Rent Index
30.3
Ranked in the World
#24
The cost of living in the UK is $1.8k per month and ranks the sixteenth most expensive country in the world to live in. Housing prices in particular have seen a significant rise with an average house price in 2022 costing £245,000, which is 6.3% higher than in 2021. Taxes within the U.K. are higher than in many other places around the world which further increases the cost of living for residents. The cost of utilities and groceries is also high due to taxes imposed by the government. As for transportation, public transport fares have significantly increased over the past decade with single bus tickets now costing up to three times as much as they did ten years ago.
United States of America
$2,112
Ranked in the World
#6
Cost of Living Index
72.4
Ranked in the World
#16
Local Purchasing Power Index
115.7
Ranked in the World
#6
Rent Index
47.1
Ranked in the World
#9
The United States of America is the sixth most expensive country in the world, with a cost of living of $2,112. The cost of living index stands at 72.4, which is lower than many other developed countries, such as Switzerland or Luxembourg. However, the rent index is 47.1, which is comparatively high. Additionally, the local purchasing power index is 115.7, indicating that the US has relatively high purchasing power. Several factors contribute to the high cost of living in the US, including healthcare costs, high taxes, and high housing prices in major cities. However, the country also boasts a wide range of affordable options for entertainment, food, and shopping, and there are many job opportunities with high salaries. Therefore, while it is an expensive country to live in, it is also a country where it is possible to achieve a high quality of life.
Uruguay
$1,090
Ranked in the World
#49
Cost of Living Index
59.9
Ranked in the World
#37
Local Purchasing Power Index
38.4
Ranked in the World
#74
Rent Index
15.9
Ranked in the World
#59
Uzbekistan
$525
Ranked in the World
#159
Cost of Living Index
27
Ranked in the World
#127
Local Purchasing Power Index
24.8
Ranked in the World
#114
Rent Index
10.7
Ranked in the World
#93
Vanuatu
$1,886
Ranked in the World
#13
Venezuela
$762
Ranked in the World
#103
Cost of Living Index
41.6
Ranked in the World
#75
Local Purchasing Power Index
12.4
Ranked in the World
#135
Rent Index
7.4
Ranked in the World
#124
Vietnam
$622
Ranked in the World
#134
Cost of Living Index
35.7
Ranked in the World
#96
Local Purchasing Power Index
31.5
Ranked in the World
#95
Rent Index
11.2
Ranked in the World
#89
Yemen
$535
Ranked in the World
#158
Cost of Living Index
58.8
Ranked in the World
#39
Local Purchasing Power Index
18.6
Ranked in the World
#129
Rent Index
7.9
Ranked in the World
#118
Zambia
$1,000
Ranked in the World
#64
Zimbabwe
$831
Ranked in the World
#93
Cost of Living Index
40.8
Ranked in the World
#78
Local Purchasing Power Index
18.7
Ranked in the World
#128
Rent Index
11.5
Ranked in the World
#88
FAQ
What is the most expensive country to live in ?
The most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living of $3.6k per month, is Monaco.
What are the most expensive countries to live in ?
The ten most expensive countries to live in, ranked by cost of living, are Monaco, Cayman Islands, Switzerland, Singapore, Liechtenstein, the United States, Iceland, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Australia.
What are the 25 most expensive countries in the world?
The top 25 most expensive countries in the world are :
1. Monaco
2. Cayman Islands
3. Switzerland
4. Singapore
5. Liechtenstein
6. United States
7. Iceland
8. Luxembourg
9. Ireland
10. Australia
11. Norway
12. Qatar
13. Vanuatu
14. Canada
15. The Bahamas
16. United Kingdom
17. Israel
18. The Netherlands
19. New Zealand
20. Denmark
21. United Arab Emirates
22. Solomon Islands
23. North Korea
24. Antigua and Barbuda
25. Austria
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