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The World’s Most Expensive Cities to Live in 2025: Cost of Living Breakdown
Dreaming of a luxury lifestyle in a global metropolis? Be prepared—some of the world’s most prestigious cities come with jaw-dropping price tags. From sky-high real estate to elite amenities, these urban hubs attract the ultra-wealthy but demand deep pockets.
Here’s the 2025 ranking of the most expensive cities based on housing, living costs, and exclusivity—plus key insights for those considering a move.
Top 10 Most Expensive Cities in 2025
| Rank | City | Country | Avg. Price (USD/m²) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Monaco | Monaco | $38,800 |
| 2 | New York City | USA | $27,500 |
| 3 | Hong Kong | Hong Kong (SAR China) | $26,300 |
| 4 | London | UK | $24,000 |
| 5 | Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat | France | $21,200 |
| 6 | Paris | France | $20,400 |
| 7 | Sydney | Australia | $19,500 |
| 8 | Palm Beach | USA | $18,000 |
| 9 | Miami Beach | USA | $17,800 |
| 10 | Los Angeles | USA | $17,500 |
Key Insights on Each City
1. Monaco – The Billionaire’s Playground
- Why so expensive? Tax-free status, ultra-luxury real estate, and limited space.
- Average property price: $38,800 per m² (highest in the world).
- Lifestyle: Superyachts, high-end casinos, and Michelin-starred dining.
2. New York City – America’s Priciest Urban Jungle
- Why so expensive? Global financial hub, high demand for housing.
- Average property price: $27,500 per m².
- Monthly living cost (with rent): $5,600+ for a single person.
3. Hong Kong – Asia’s Most Expensive City
- Why so expensive? Extreme land scarcity and dense population.
- Average property price: $26,300 per m².
- Monthly living cost (without rent): ~$1,200.
4. London – Historic & High-Cost
- Why so expensive? Global finance, luxury real estate, and elite education.
- Average property price: $24,000 per m².
- Monthly living cost (without rent): ~$1,400.
5-6. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat & Paris – French Luxury
- Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Mediterranean villas for the ultra-rich ($21,200/m²).
- Paris: Iconic architecture & high-end living ($20,400/m²).
7. Sydney – Australia’s Priciest Metropolis
- Why so expensive? High demand, coastal premium.
- Average property price: $19,500 per m².
- Monthly living cost (without rent): ~$1,150.
8-10. Palm Beach, Miami Beach, Los Angeles – Sun, Sand & Sky-High Prices
- Why so expensive? Celebrities, waterfront properties, luxury lifestyle.
- Average property price: $17,500–$18,000/m².
Other Notable Expensive Cities
- Singapore – $4,000+/month for a single person.
- Zurich & Geneva (Switzerland) – High salaries but even higher costs.
- San Francisco – Tech wealth drives prices ($4,700+/month).
Why Are These Cities So Expensive?
- Limited space + high demand = insane real estate prices.
- Global business hubs attract wealthy expats.
- Luxury amenities (private clubs, designer shopping, fine dining).
- Strong economies & prestige keep costs elevated.
