The Japanese capital, Tokyo, now no longer dominates the ranking of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates. It has been replaced by the capital of a country that is paradoxically pretty poor… 

Source: firm Mercer – July 23, 2013

It is the city most populated of Australia, Sydney, coming in last place in this ranking, preceded by 3 Swiss cities (Berne, 9th, Zu^rich, 8th aⁿd 7th Genev^a). Switzerland remains indeed of far the most expensive country in Europe (count 6 dollars for a cup of coffee in Zurich).

Hong Kong comes in 6th place with a record rents amount (approximately $ 7,000 / month for a 3 parts)! Just ahead in 5t^h position, we find Singapore, then N’Djamena (4th position). The Chadian capital loses a place compared to the last ranking but the cost of imports keeps an expensive city for expats (the price of the Burger reaches easily $ 25!).

Loca^ted in the 3rd position, Tokyo. The Japanese capital loses the head of the standings this year but remains on the podium, in part « Thanks » to the cost of real estate. The price of the accommodation place Moscow 2nd (4600 dollars / month for a 3 parts).

Four cities are in the Top 10, but it’s Luanda, in Africa (Angola), which holds the first place of the podium! Accommodation is particularly expensive because highly secure and imported foods have sometimes exorbitant prices!

In short: 

1. Luanda – 2. Moscow – 3. Tokyo – 4. N’Djamena – 5. Singapore – 6. Hong Kong – 7. Geneva – 8. Zurich – 9. Bern – 10. Sydney

This ranking, rather stable from one year to another, is mainly based on the cost of housing and products imported for « respect » for the lifestyle required by expatriates.

Note however that this ranking does not take into account health spending.  A point not to obscure in his budget when it moved to the other side of the world! There is indeed insurance « repatriation » so you want to be evacuated to the country of origin when care is not possible locally and support expenses in case of hospitalization, patient… Your broker will advise you and compare formulas adapted to each situation: with or without the CFE, alone or with your family…

You can find complete information on the ranking of the most expensive cities in the world by following the following links:

Mercer expatriate classification: what is the most expensive city in the world

Expatriates: Luanda and Moscow, head of the most expensive cities in the world