(C): Unsplash
Cost of living in Asia in 2025 is still indicative of the active economic growth and urbanization of the region. It is between the lavish Tokyo and Singapore in the case of the former, and the cheap Hanoi and Manila in the case of the latter, where housing, food, and transport are different in prices, based on the economy and way of life of each city. With the influx of digital nomads, expatriates, and professionals to Asian countries to seize opportunities, such differences are critical with regard to budgeting and relocation planning. This report delves into the cost of living in the major cities in Asia giving you an idea when your money goes the distance and when it costs more to find comfort in the cities.
| City | Average Monthly Rent (1-Bedroom, City Center) | Monthly Expenses (Excl. Rent) | Cost of Living Index (Out of 100) |
| Tokyo, Japan | $1,350 | $950 | 93 |
| Singapore | $2,100 | $1,200 | 98 |
| Hong Kong | $2,800 | $1,100 | 100 |
| Seoul, S. Korea | $1,200 | $900 | 88 |
| Bangkok, Thailand | $600 | $700 | 75 |
| Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | $500 | $650 | 70 |
| Hanoi, Vietnam | $400 | $500 | 65 |
| Manila, Philippines | $450 | $550 | 67 |
The 2025 data indicate that Hong Kong and Singapore are the most expensive cities in Asia, primarily because of housing prices which are skyrocketing and the scarcity of space. Tokyo is expensive, but it is a great place to live with quality infrastructure. Conversely, the growing cities in Southeast Asia such as Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, and Manila are becoming cheaper and more affordable as a place to rent due to their lower rent and increased amenities available to digital workers. Seoul and Bangkok find a middle way, providing comfort in the city at moderate prices. Asia as a whole is a reflection of economic differences in its diversity in living costs- offering luxury spots and economic safe havens to both its residents and visitors.
Disclaimer: Stay updated with the lastest news, from politics to business trends, while also catching up on the lastest news in sports covering matches, scores, and tournaments. Explore the latest news in entertainment with celebrity updates, movies, and shows, and don’t miss the latest news in games, featuring trending releases and esports highlights.
With this clean-energy move, Malaysia has thus made a historic breakthrough as it is witnessed with the opening of the…
Sumatra, which has a lot of different kinds of plants and animals and is famous for its beautiful jungles and…
Sri Lanka's famous tea-growing area was devastated when Cyclone Ditwah went through the central highlands, destroying farms and forcing thousands…
Japan is still having strong waves from the recent big earthquake that was felt in a number of different areas.…
Malaysia's tourist industry was doing well after the pandemic, but now there is uncertainty as political tensions rise. When Perak…
Christmas markets and other public celebrations in several cities of Europe this year are being held in an atmosphere of…
This website uses cookies.
Read More