The average for 2021 based on 10 countries was 59.91 index points. The highest value was in Singapore: 118.34 index points and the lowest value was in India: 40.44 index points. The indicator is available from 2017 to 2021. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

South Korea's capital Seoul had the highest cost of living among megacities in the Asia-Pacific region in 2024, with an index score of ****. Japan's capital Tokyo followed with a cost of living index score of ****. AffordabilityIn terms of housing affordability, Chinese megacity Shanghai had the highest rent index score in 2024. Affordability has become an issue in certain megacities across the Asia-Pacific region, with accommodation proving expensive. Next to Shanghai, Japanese capital Tokyo and South Korean capital Seoul boast some of the highest rent indices in the region. Increased opportunities in megacitiesAs the biggest region in the world, it is not surprising that the Asia-Pacific region is home to 28 megacities as of January 2024, with expectations that this number will dramatically increase by 2030. The growing number of megacities in the Asia-Pacific region can be attributed to raised levels of employment and living conditions. Cities such as Tokyo, Shanghai, and Beijing have become economic and industrial hubs. Subsequently, these cities have forged a reputation as being the in-trend places to live among the younger generations. This reputation has also pushed them to become enticing to tourists, with Tokyo displaying increased numbers of tourists throughout recent years, which in turn has created more job opportunities for inhabitants. As well as Tokyo, Shanghai has benefitted from the increased tourism, and has demonstrated an increasing population. A big factor in this population increase could be due to the migration of citizens to the city, seeking better employment possibilities.

In 2023, Thailand had a cost of living index score of ****, indicating a slight decrease compared to the previous year. In the Asia Pacific region, Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, had the highest cost of living index in that year.

In 2024, Singapore's cost of living index was at ****, compared to that of New York City as a base of 100. This meant that Singapore was about ** percent more affordable than New York City. With a local purchasing power index of ***, residents with an average salary in Singapore are able to afford more goods and services compared to the base city of New York City. In that year, Singapore had the highest cost of living index in Asia.

The capital city of Manila had a cost of living index score of **** in 2023, indicating a decrease from the previous year. In the Asia Pacific region, Seoul in South Korea had the highest cost of living among other megacities as of 2023.

The size of the Asia Pacific Food Platform-to-Consumer Delivery Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 10.52% during the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific food platform-to-consumer delivery industry encompasses the services and technology facilitating the direct delivery of food from restaurants, grocery stores, and other food providers to consumers’ doorsteps. This rapidly evolving sector has gained significant traction due to changing consumer preferences, urbanization, and advancements in technology. The convenience of having meals and groceries delivered directly to homes has become increasingly appealing, particularly in densely populated urban areas where busy lifestyles demand time-saving solutions. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of this industry, as lockdowns and social distancing measures compelled consumers to seek safe, contactless dining options. Major players in this market, such as Foodpanda, Zomato, and Deliveroo, have established robust platforms that connect consumers with a wide variety of food options, ranging from local eateries to large restaurant chains. These platforms utilize sophisticated algorithms and user-friendly interfaces to enhance the ordering experience and optimize delivery logistics. The industry is characterized by fierce competition, leading to innovations in delivery methods, such as the use of drones and autonomous vehicles, to improve efficiency and reduce delivery times. Recent developments include: August 2022: The introduction of GrabFood in Phnom Penh was announced by Grab following a successful four-month "beta" test in the capital. GrabFood is the top meal delivery service in Southeast Asia, connecting customers to a wide range of food and drink options and providing on-demand delivery to customers' doors. With the new service, customers may save up to 50% when they order from GrabFood no matter how far away the restaurant or cafe is from the user's location., August 2022: Uber Eats has planned to lessen the stress on delivery drivers using their network to match the rising cost of living. With delivery bike media owner MotionAds, Uber Eats has excited to launch a partnership that would provide delivery personnel with a chance to supplement their income through top box advertising., August 2022: To reduce food waste and operating costs in the face of the nation's escalating inflation, Deliveroo Singapore has partnered with the social company TreeDots. The collaboration with TreeDots will give restaurants a way to reduce food procurement expenses for a variety of high-quality goods and maintain profitable profit margins.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Mobile Penetration, Surge in Internet Penetration; Ease of Access and Discount on orders. Potential restraints include: High Cost of Forestry Equipment, Lack of Information About Forestry Equipment. Notable trends are: Smart Phones and Internet Penetrations in the region are driving the Market.

This data collection provides information on the national attributes of 17 Asian nations in the period 1956-1968. Data are provided for economic, political, and physical attributes of the various nations. Information is provided on the gross national product (GNP), cost of living index, index of agricultural production, military expenditures, population size, size and orientation of the Communist Party, size of the armed forces, political strikes, riots, anti-government demonstrations, organized armed attacks, armed attacks with external involvement, on-going insurgency supported by the Soviet Union, assassination of officials, political turmoil and strikes, riots, irregular power transfers, government censorship, economic aid from intergovernmental organizations, and United Nations vote on acceptance of Communist China.

Capsule Apartment Market Outlook

The global capsule apartment market size was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 2.8 billion by 2032, growing at a robust CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period. This significant growth can be attributed to a myriad of factors, including urbanization, the rising cost of living, and evolving consumer preferences for affordable and efficient living spaces. The burgeoning demand for convenient and cost-effective accommodation options in densely populated cities is propelling market expansion.

The surge in urban populations across the globe is one of the foremost growth drivers for the capsule apartment market. As cities become more crowded, the space for traditional housing diminishes, leading to skyrocketing real estate prices. Capsule apartments offer a solution by maximizing the use of limited space, providing essential living amenities within compact units. This urbanization trend is particularly pronounced in Asia-Pacific regions where the population density is highest, thereby sparking significant demand for such accommodation.

Another key factor driving the market is the escalating rental costs in metropolitan areas. The cost of traditional housing has become increasingly prohibitive, especially for young professionals and students. Capsule apartments provide a more economical alternative without compromising on basic living standards. These units are furnished, often with shared amenities like kitchens and bathrooms, which makes them an attractive option for individuals looking to save on living expenses while still residing near work or educational institutions.

Technological advancements and innovative designs are also contributing to market growth. Modern capsule apartments are equipped with smart technologies and space-saving solutions that enhance the living experience. Features like automated lighting, climate control, and high-speed internet are becoming standard, making these compact living spaces more appealing to tech-savvy consumers. The integration of such technologies not only improves comfort but also adds value, thus boosting market adoption.

In recent years, the concept of Spa Capsules has emerged as an innovative addition to the wellness and hospitality sectors. These capsules are designed to provide a compact yet luxurious spa experience, often integrated within capsule apartments or hotels. The idea is to offer guests a private and relaxing space where they can enjoy various spa treatments without leaving the premises. This integration not only enhances the overall appeal of capsule accommodations but also adds a unique selling point, attracting health-conscious travelers and residents seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a bustling urban environment.

On a regional scale, the Asia-Pacific region holds a dominant position in the capsule apartment market. With its high population density and rapid urbanization, countries like Japan, China, and South Korea are at the forefront of market growth. North America and Europe are also witnessing increasing adoption, driven by the rising trends of minimalistic living and the influx of tourists seeking budget accommodation. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging markets, showing considerable potential due to growing urban populations and tourism.

Type Analysis

The capsule apartment market can be segmented based on type into Single Capsule, Double Capsule, and Suite Capsule. Single capsules are the most common, offering compact yet functional living spaces for individuals. These units are particularly popular among students and workers who require affordable accommodation in urban areas. The demand for single capsules is expected to remain robust, driven by the continual influx of young professionals and students into cities.

Double capsules, which offer slightly larger spaces suitable for two occupants, are gaining traction. These units are ideal for couples or friends who wish to share accommodation while maintaining some level of privacy. The growing trend of co-living among young adults and the need for affordable housing options for couples in urban areas are key factors driving the demand for double capsules. These units provide a balance between cost-efficiency and comfort, making them a popular choice.

Suite capsules are a relatively new entrant in the market, offering a more luxurious and s

In 2023, approximately ** percent of the population in Papua New Guinea were living in rural areas. In comparison, approximately ***** percent of the population in Japan were living in rural areas that year. Urbanization and development Despite the desirable outcomes that urbanization entails, these rapid demographic shifts have also brought about unintended changes. For instance, in countries like India, rapid urbanization has led to unsustainable and crowded cities, with **** of the urban population in India estimated to live in slums. In China, population shifts from rural to urban areas have aggravated regional economic disparities. For example, the migration of workers into coastal cities has made possible the creation of urban clusters of immense economic magnitude, with the Yangtze River Delta city cluster accounting for about a ******of the country’s gross domestic product. Megacities and their future Home to roughly 60 percent of the world’s population, the Asia-Pacific region also shelters most of the globe’s largest urban agglomerations. Megacities, a term used for cities or urban areas with a population of over ten million people, are characterized by high cultural diversity and advanced infrastructure. As a result, they create better economic opportunities, and they are often hubs of innovation. For instance, many megacities in the Asia-Pacific region offer high local purchasing power to their residents. Despite challenges like pollution, income inequality, or the rising cost of living, megacities in the Asia-Pacific region have relatively high population growth rates and are expected to expand.

The Asia-Pacific food platform-to-consumer delivery industry is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing smartphone penetration, rising disposable incomes, and a burgeoning preference for convenient food delivery options. The market, estimated at approximately $XX million in 2025 (assuming a logical estimation based on available CAGR and industry benchmarks), is projected to expand significantly over the forecast period (2025-2033), exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.52%. This growth is fueled by several key trends, including the rise of quick-commerce models offering ultra-fast delivery, the integration of advanced technologies like AI and machine learning for optimized delivery routes and order management, and the increasing adoption of subscription services and loyalty programs. Furthermore, the diversification of food offerings, including both restaurant meals and grocery deliveries, broadens the market's appeal and contributes to its expansive growth trajectory. However, challenges remain, including stringent regulations, intense competition among established players and new entrants, and the fluctuating costs of food supplies and labor, which could impact profitability and expansion plans. Geographical segmentation reveals a dynamic landscape, with China and India anticipated to dominate the market, owing to their vast populations and rapidly expanding middle classes. South Korea and the rest of the Asia-Pacific region will also contribute significantly to the overall market value, though at a potentially slower pace than China and India. The competitive landscape is intensely crowded, with key players such as Deliveroo, Zomato, FoodPanda, GrabFood, and Swiggy vying for market share. These companies are continuously innovating, offering promotional discounts, loyalty programs, and expanding their service areas to maintain a competitive edge. The success of these players hinges on their ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences, manage operational efficiency, and navigate the complex regulatory environment. Continued growth is expected, fueled by technological advancements and the increasing demand for convenient and diverse food delivery options across the Asia-Pacific region. Recent developments include: August 2022: The introduction of GrabFood in Phnom Penh was announced by Grab following a successful four-month "beta" test in the capital. GrabFood is the top meal delivery service in Southeast Asia, connecting customers to a wide range of food and drink options and providing on-demand delivery to customers' doors. With the new service, customers may save up to 50% when they order from GrabFood no matter how far away the restaurant or cafe is from the user's location., August 2022: Uber Eats has planned to lessen the stress on delivery drivers using their network to match the rising cost of living. With delivery bike media owner MotionAds, Uber Eats has excited to launch a partnership that would provide delivery personnel with a chance to supplement their income through top box advertising., August 2022: To reduce food waste and operating costs in the face of the nation's escalating inflation, Deliveroo Singapore has partnered with the social company TreeDots. The collaboration with TreeDots will give restaurants a way to reduce food procurement expenses for a variety of high-quality goods and maintain profitable profit margins.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Mobile Penetration, Surge in Internet Penetration; Ease of Access and Discount on orders. Potential restraints include: Increasing Mobile Penetration, Surge in Internet Penetration; Ease of Access and Discount on orders. Notable trends are: Smart Phones and Internet Penetrations in the region are driving the Market.

Student Micro-Apartment Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global student micro-apartment market size reached USD 9.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 8.4% from 2025 to 2033, attaining a forecasted market value of USD 18.8 billion by 2033. This significant growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for affordable, flexible, and well-located student housing solutions in urban centers worldwide, as higher education enrollment continues to surge and urbanization intensifies.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the student micro-apartment market is the ongoing surge in global student mobility. As more students pursue higher education abroad, particularly in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, the demand for compact, cost-effective, and conveniently located accommodation near educational institutions has soared. These micro-apartments offer students a blend of privacy, affordability, and community living, making them an attractive alternative to traditional dormitories and private rentals. Additionally, the rising costs of urban real estate have made large-scale student housing projects less viable, pushing developers to focus on micro-apartments that maximize space efficiency while minimizing rental costs.

Another key driver is the evolving lifestyle preferences of Generation Z and Millennial students, who prioritize sustainability, flexibility, and connectivity in their living arrangements. Student micro-apartments are designed to cater to these preferences by incorporating smart technology, energy-efficient appliances, and communal amenities such as study lounges, gyms, and social spaces. The modular nature of many micro-apartment projects enables rapid construction, scalability, and adaptability to changing student needs, further fueling market growth. Moreover, universities and private developers are increasingly partnering to offer purpose-built student accommodations (PBSA), integrating micro-apartments into campus master plans to enhance student satisfaction and retention.

The market is also benefiting from the expansion of higher education institutions into secondary and tertiary cities, especially in emerging economies across Asia Pacific and Latin America. These regions are witnessing a boom in university enrollments, driven by favorable demographic trends and government initiatives to improve access to education. As a result, there is a heightened need for affordable student housing options that can be quickly deployed and managed efficiently. The growing acceptance of alternative rental models, such as co-living and shared micro-apartments, is further diversifying the market landscape, attracting investment from real estate funds, institutional investors, and proptech startups.

Regionally, Europe and North America remain the largest markets for student micro-apartments, accounting for a combined share of over 60% of global revenues in 2024. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market, with a projected CAGR of over 10% during the forecast period. Countries like China, India, and Australia are experiencing unprecedented growth in international student inflows and domestic university enrollments, driving robust demand for modern, affordable student housing solutions. Meanwhile, Middle East & Africa and Latin America are gradually catching up, supported by urbanization, rising middle-class incomes, and strategic investments in educational infrastructure.

Apartment Type Analysis

The student micro-apartment market is segmented by apartment type into studio, loft, shared, modular, and others, each catering to distinct student preferences and budget considerations. Studio apartments remain the most popular choice, offering a self-contained living space that combines bedroom, kitchenette, and bathroom facilities in a compact footprint. This format appeals to studen

The global condominiums and apartments market is experiencing robust growth, driven by factors such as increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for urban lifestyles. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 3.00% indicates a consistent expansion, projected to continue throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). Key market drivers include government initiatives promoting affordable housing, increasing tourism and associated hospitality needs, and the growing popularity of mixed-use developments integrating residential and commercial spaces. Emerging trends such as smart home technology integration, sustainable building practices, and the rise of co-living spaces are further shaping market dynamics. However, constraints such as rising construction costs, stringent building regulations, and limited land availability in prime urban locations pose challenges to market growth. The market is segmented geographically, with North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific representing significant market shares. Analysis of production, consumption, import/export volumes and values, and price trends provides a comprehensive understanding of the market's dynamics across these regions. Major players like Christie International Real Estate, Lennar Corporation, and Savills PLC are actively shaping the market through their developments and innovations. This competitive landscape necessitates continuous adaptation and innovation to remain successful. The projected market size for 2025 serves as the base for forecasting future growth. Considering the CAGR of >3.00%, a reasonable estimation of the market size can be derived for subsequent years. Regional variations in growth rates will exist depending on factors such as economic conditions, urbanization rates, and governmental policies. While precise figures for each segment and region are not provided, the analysis clearly points to a positive trajectory fueled by ongoing urbanization and evolving consumer preferences, with significant opportunities and challenges within this dynamic market. A deeper regional analysis will reveal nuanced differences in market performance, influencing strategic decisions of players in this competitive landscape. Recent developments include: October 2022: City Developments Ltd. (CDL), controlled by billionaire Kwek Leng Beng, is proceeding with the launch of a suburban residential condominium project in Singapore's western region, indicating its confidence that property demand will be sustained despite the government's new property curbs., June 2022: ALTIDO, a European property management company, has announced two mergers and acquisitions, including Flatty and A&A Apartments & Boats. It comes less than four months after ALTIDO was acquired by Italian living company DoveVivo, ensuring it emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic with a large injection of financing under its belt and the ability to expand its inventory by 51 properties through the combined acquisitions.. Notable trends are: Increasing Demand for Condominiums in Several Regions Driving the Market.

At **** U.S. dollars, Switzerland has the most expensive Big Macs in the world, according to the January 2025 Big Mac index. Concurrently, the cost of a Big Mac was **** dollars in the U.S., and **** U.S. dollars in the Euro area. What is the Big Mac index? The Big Mac index, published by The Economist, is a novel way of measuring whether the market exchange rates for different countries’ currencies are overvalued or undervalued. It does this by measuring each currency against a common standard – the Big Mac hamburger sold by McDonald’s restaurants all over the world. Twice a year the Economist converts the average national price of a Big Mac into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at that point in time. As a Big Mac is a completely standardized product across the world, the argument goes that it should have the same relative cost in every country. Differences in the cost of a Big Mac expressed as U.S. dollars therefore reflect differences in the purchasing power of each currency. Is the Big Mac index a good measure of purchasing power parity? Purchasing power parity (PPP) is the idea that items should cost the same in different countries, based on the exchange rate at that time. This relationship does not hold in practice. Factors like tax rates, wage regulations, whether components need to be imported, and the level of market competition all contribute to price variations between countries. The Big Mac index does measure this basic point – that one U.S. dollar can buy more in some countries than others. There are more accurate ways to measure differences in PPP though, which convert a larger range of products into their dollar price. Adjusting for PPP can have a massive effect on how we understand a country’s economy. The country with the largest GDP adjusted for PPP is China, but when looking at the unadjusted GDP of different countries, the U.S. has the largest economy.

The smart apartment market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for technologically advanced living spaces. The market, encompassing various smart home technologies integrated into residential units, is projected to witness significant expansion over the next decade. While precise market sizing data is unavailable, considering a conservative CAGR of 15% (a reasonable estimate given the rapid technological advancements and adoption rates in this sector) and a 2025 market value in the low billions (based on similar mature smart home markets), the market is poised for substantial growth. Key segments, such as Building Management Systems (BMS) and HVAC controls, are leading the charge, enhancing energy efficiency and resident comfort. The integration of smart security and access control systems also contributes to increased safety and convenience. North America and Europe are currently leading the market, but rapidly developing economies in Asia Pacific are showing significant potential for future growth. Competition is intensifying with both established homebuilders and specialized smart technology providers vying for market share. Challenges include the initial high cost of implementation for developers and consumers, concerns about data privacy, and the potential for technological obsolescence. However, ongoing technological improvements, falling prices of smart home technologies, and increasing consumer awareness are mitigating these limitations. The future success of smart apartments will hinge on the ability of developers and technology providers to offer seamless integration of various smart home functionalities, user-friendly interfaces, and robust data security measures. Addressing consumer concerns around cost and data privacy will be crucial for widespread adoption. The market is expected to see a rise in customized smart apartment solutions tailored to individual resident needs and preferences, further driving market expansion. The focus will likely shift towards sustainable and energy-efficient solutions, aligning with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the integration of advanced AI and machine learning capabilities is expected to lead to more personalized and predictive smart home functionalities. This integration will result in improved energy management, enhanced security, and enhanced resident experiences, ultimately fueling the continued growth of the smart apartment market.

In 2024, the average monthly income per capita in Vietnam reached approximately *** million Vietnamese dong, indicating a slight increase from the previous year. 2020 and 2021 were particularly difficult years for the country’s population when per capita income decreased due to the negative impacts of the COVID-19 epidemic. Income distribution in Vietnam As a rapidly developing country in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has made significant efforts to improve income distribution among its population. One of the key factors contributing to a more balanced income distribution is Vietnam’s robust economic growth. Although the COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges to the country’s economy, Vietnam has been enjoying gradual GDP growth over the past few years, which explains the increase in job opportunities and higher wages for many Vietnamese citizens. Over the years, the Vietnamese government has implemented various policies and strategies to reduce the poverty rate and narrow the income gap in the country. However, the difference in income between urban and rural areas is inevitable. According to a governmental report in 2022, earnings per capita improved steadily across the whole country regardless of area; nonetheless, the monthly average income in urban areas was 1.5 times higher than that of their rural counterparts. Among the five major cities, Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City recorded the highest income per capita due to their higher living expenses compared to other areas. Monthly household expenditures in Vietnam While Vietnam has made noticeable progress in reducing poverty and improving income distribution, challenges remain in shaping the overall living standard for the population. The cost of living varies across different regions, with urban areas generally having higher expenses compared to rural areas. The largest portions of household expenditures are mainly used for nutrition, followed by housing, transportation, and healthcare. Education and entertainment also contributed to the monthly expenses, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and many restrictions were lifted in the country.