Expert Info
Hi All , I know these question is asked several times in forums , but I am still not able to figure out the cost of living in Hong Kong [ in 2012 ] . I am a Software developer from Mumbai working on Microsoft Technologies [ mainly into Silverlight , C#.net , WCF ] with 2 years of experience and holding a Master degree [Master of Computer Applications ] . I have got an offer from Hong Kong but the problem is they have asked me to quote the salary and I want to make sure I am not asking for too much OR too less considering my experience. I am a bachelor (25 yrs old) and will get marry in a years time or so. So information I am looking for . 1. Rent for 1 BHK Fully furnished house with Building/Apartment having swimming pool and other facilities . AND Rent for 1BHK fully furnished house without having swimming pool and other facilities. My office will be in Kowloon Bay , so I am okay to have one time travel of 45 minutes from house to office. 2. Other monthly costs like Food , travel, utilities like Electricity , water , cooking gas , TV connection ,Internet ,Mobile phone bill etc. 3. Income Tax . Please help me with answers on above question , let me know if you need further information to evaluate the whole thing more accurately. Many Thanks.
With regards to accommodation, most people in Hong Kong tend to live in high-rise apartments rather than houses. This is because Hong Kong is a densley populated place and there isn't much space to build houses.
With that being said, the cost of a 2 bedroom apartment in Hong Kong can vary. You can get an apartment in the Mid-levels for around HKD 13,000 but that will be in an older building. If you are looking for a nicer flat with modern amenties like a swimming pool, you are better off looking for a place in Repulse Bay where rents start at around HKD 33,000.
Other costs will really depend on your lifestyle. Please take a look at the Expat Arrival's page on the Cost of Living in Hong Kong for more information on the expenses.
It is also important to remember that most companies that employ expats in Hong Kong include a housing allowance, health insurance provision within the contract. It is worth asking about these in your negotiations.
Best of luck.