The graph shows the world's most expensive cities to live, compared to New York City. Zurich is with a value of 170 the most expensive city to live.

Damascus in Syria was ranked as the least expensive city worldwide in 2023, with an index score of ** out of 100. The country has been marred by civil war over the last decade, hitting the country's economy hard. Other cities in the Middle East and North Africa, such as Tehran, Tripoli, and Tunis, are also present on the list. On the other hand, Singapore and Zurich were ranked the most expensive cities in the world.

Zurich, Lausanne, and Geneva were ranked as the most expensive cities worldwide with indices of ************************ Almost half of the 11 most expensive cities were in Switzerland.

The average for 2021 based on 165 countries was 79.81 index points. The highest value was in Bermuda: 212.7 index points and the lowest value was in Syria: 33.25 index points. The indicator is available from 2017 to 2021. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, ranked as the most expensive city to live in Africa as of 2024, considering consumer goods prices. The Ethiopian capital obtained an index score of 46.7, followed by Harare, in Zimbabwe, with 37.4. Morocco and South Africa were the countries with the most representatives among the 15 cities with the highest cost of living in Africa.

Of the cities who have experienced cost of living increases, the top three are located in Latin America, two in Mexico and one in Costa Rica. Each moved 38, 39, and 48 spots in the ranking respectively since 2022. Due to increases in interest rates, the Mexican peso and Costa Rican colón have both appreciated against the U.S. Dollar. Comparatively, Singapore and Zurich were ranked the most expensive cities in the world.

As of September 2024, Mumbai had the highest cost of living among other cities in the country, with an index value of ****. Gurgaon, a satellite city of Delhi and part of the National Capital Region (NCR) followed it with an index value of ****.  What is cost of living? The cost of living varies depending on geographical regions and factors that affect the cost of living in an area include housing, food, utilities, clothing, childcare, and fuel among others. The cost of living is calculated based on different measures such as the consumer price index (CPI), living cost indexes, and wage price index. CPI refers to the change in the value of consumer goods and services. The wage price index, on the other hand, measures the change in labor services prices due to market pressures. Lastly, the living cost indexes calculate the impact of changing costs on different households. The relationship between wages and costs determines affordability and shifts in the cost of living. Mumbai tops the list Mumbai usually tops the list of most expensive cities in India. As the financial and entertainment hub of the country, Mumbai offers wide opportunities and attracts talent from all over the country. It is the second-largest city in India and has one of the most expensive real estates in the world.

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.

This Cost of International Education dataset compiles detailed financial information for students pursuing higher education abroad. It covers multiple countries, cities, and universities around the world, capturing the full tuition and living expenses spectrum alongside key ancillary costs. With standardized fields such as tuition in USD, living-cost indices, rent, visa fees, insurance, and up-to-date exchange rates, it enables comparative analysis across programs, degree levels, and geographies. Whether you’re a prospective international student mapping out budgets, an educational consultant advising on affordability, or a researcher studying global education economics, this dataset offers a comprehensive foundation for data-driven insights.

Description

Potential Uses

• Budget Planning Prospective students can filter by country, program level, or university to forecast total expenses and compare across destinations.
• Policy Analysis Educational policymakers and NGOs can assess the affordability of international education and design support programs.
• Economic Research Economists can correlate living-cost indices and tuition levels with enrollment rates or student demographics.
• University Benchmarking Institutions can benchmark their fees and ancillary costs against peer universities worldwide.

Notes on Data Collection & Quality

• Currency Conversions All monetary values are unified to USD using contemporaneous exchange rates to facilitate direct comparison.
• Living Cost Index Derived from reputable city-index publications (e.g., Numbeo, Mercer) to standardize disparate cost-of-living metrics.
• Data Currency Exchange rates and fee schedules should be periodically updated to reflect market fluctuations and policy changes.

Feel free to explore, visualize, and extend this dataset for deeper insights into the true cost of studying abroad!

Average Household Income: Tanjung Pandan Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data was reported at 658,295.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Tanjung Pandan Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data is updated yearly, averaging 658,295.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 658,295.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 658,295.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Tanjung Pandan Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB003: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Income: by Cities.

Average Household Income: Bandung Municipality: Other data was reported at 918,563.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bandung Municipality: Other data is updated yearly, averaging 918,563.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 918,563.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 918,563.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bandung Municipality: Other data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB003: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Income: by Cities.

Average Household Income: Bengkulu Municipality: Other data was reported at 1,555,301.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bengkulu Municipality: Other data is updated yearly, averaging 1,555,301.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,555,301.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 1,555,301.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bengkulu Municipality: Other data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB003: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Income: by Cities.

Living Cost: Average per Month: CF: City of Moscow data was reported at 17,740.000 RUB in Dec 2020. This records a decrease from the previous number of 18,029.000 RUB for Sep 2020. Living Cost: Average per Month: CF: City of Moscow data is updated quarterly, averaging 9,158.000 RUB from Sep 2001 (Median) to Dec 2020, with 78 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 18,029.000 RUB in Sep 2020 and a record low of 2,295.000 RUB in Sep 2001. Living Cost: Average per Month: CF: City of Moscow data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Federal State Statistics Service. The data is categorized under Russia Premium Database’s Household Survey – Table RU.HF001: Living Cost.

Mobile Home Rental Market Outlook

The global mobile home rental market size was valued at USD 9.3 billion in 2023, and it is projected to reach USD 17.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is driven by the increasing demand for affordable housing solutions and the rising trend of mobile living among different demographics. As urbanization continues to increase and housing prices soar, mobile homes present a viable and cost-effective alternative to traditional housing. The flexibility, affordability, and customization options associated with mobile homes have made them an attractive choice for many, thereby fueling the growth of the rental segment.

One of the primary growth factors for the mobile home rental market is the rising affordability crisis in urban housing. As property prices continue to skyrocket in major cities around the world, more individuals and families are turning to mobile homes as a practical solution. Mobile homes offer a lower cost of living, reduced maintenance expenses, and the ability to relocate easily, making them an appealing option for those who face financial constraints. Additionally, mobile homes are increasingly being designed with modern amenities and high-quality materials, improving their appeal and livability.

Another significant growth driver is the increasing acceptance and popularity of mobile home parks. These parks provide a community-based living environment with amenities such as recreational facilities, security, and maintenance services. This community aspect, combined with the affordability of mobile homes, attracts a diverse range of renters, from young professionals to retirees. Moreover, governments in various regions are also supporting the development of mobile home parks to address the housing shortage, further boosting the market.

The growing trend of minimalistic and sustainable living is also contributing to the market's expansion. Many individuals are prioritizing smaller, eco-friendly living spaces that reduce their carbon footprint. Mobile homes, which often employ sustainable building practices and materials, cater to this demographic. The ability to downsize and live a more sustainable lifestyle without sacrificing comfort is a strong selling point for mobile homes, increasing their popularity among environmentally conscious renters.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the mobile home rental market due to the high demand for affordable housing solutions and the presence of well-established mobile home communities. Europe is also witnessing significant growth, driven by similar affordability concerns and an increasing preference for flexible living options. Asia Pacific is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by rapid urbanization, population growth, and government initiatives supporting affordable housing. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa regions are also showing promising growth potential, albeit at a slower pace.

Type Analysis

The mobile home rental market can be segmented by type into Single-Wide, Double-Wide, and Triple-Wide homes. Single-Wide mobile homes are the most traditional and common type, featuring a narrow and elongated structure that is easy to transport and set up. These homes are highly popular among individual renters and small families due to their affordability and simplicity. Despite their smaller size, many single-wide homes are equipped with modern amenities, making them a comfortable living option. The demand for single-wide homes remains strong, particularly in regions where affordable housing is scarce.

Double-Wide mobile homes consist of two sections that are joined together to create a larger living space. These homes offer more interior space and design flexibility compared to single-wide models, catering to families and individuals who require more room. The growing preference for spacious living environments without the high costs associated with traditional homes is driving the demand for double-wide mobile homes. Additionally, double-wide homes often feature more advanced amenities and higher quality finishes, further enhancing their appeal.

Triple-Wide mobile homes represent the largest and most luxurious segment within the mobile home rental market. These homes consist of three joined sections, providing a spacious and comfortable living environment that can rival traditional houses. Triple-wide homes are designed to offer maximum comfort and luxury, often featuring multiple bedrooms, large kitchens,

Real Estate Rental Market Outlook

The global real estate rental market size is projected to grow from USD 1.5 trillion in 2023 to approximately USD 2.3 trillion by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and the evolving nature of work environments. The market is witnessing substantial growth due to an inclination towards urban living, coupled with a significant shift towards flexible working spaces. These factors are bolstered by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences, making the real estate rental market an area of active interest and dynamic evolution.

One of the significant growth drivers of the real estate rental market is the trend of urbanization. As more people migrate to cities in search of better employment opportunities and lifestyles, the demand for rental properties surges. This urban influx requires extensive accommodation and commercial spaces, thereby driving up the rental market. Additionally, the scarcity and high cost of owned properties in urban areas make renting a more viable and attractive option for many individuals and businesses. This trend is expected to continue as cities expand and develop, creating a continual demand for rental properties.

Increasing disposable incomes and the changing dynamics of consumer spending also play a critical role in the growth of the real estate rental market. As economic conditions improve globally, more individuals and corporates have higher spending capacities, allowing them to opt for premium rental properties. This increase in disposable income is particularly noticeable in emerging economies, where rapid economic growth is leading to higher standards of living and increased demand for quality rental spaces. Additionally, the rise of a more mobile and transient workforce prefers the flexibility of renting over purchasing, further fueling market growth.

Technological advancements and digital transformation are another crucial factor contributing to the growth of the real estate rental market. The proliferation of online platforms and digital tools has revolutionized the way rental properties are marketed, managed, and leased. These innovations provide greater transparency, convenience, and efficiency, making the rental process more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. Virtual tours, online payment systems, and digital lease agreements are just a few examples of how technology is enhancing the rental experience, attracting more tenants and simplifying property management for landlords.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the market growth, driven by rapid urbanization and economic development in countries like China and India. North America and Europe are also significant markets, with mature real estate sectors and high demand for both residential and commercial rental properties. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges, influenced by factors such as economic conditions, regulatory environments, and cultural preferences. Understanding these regional dynamics is essential for stakeholders looking to capitalize on the growth opportunities within the global real estate rental market.

Property Type Analysis

The real estate rental market is segmented by property type into residential, commercial, industrial, and others. The residential segment holds the largest share, driven by the increasing demand for housing in urban areas. As cities expand and populations grow, the need for rental housing continues to rise. This segment includes apartments, single-family homes, and multi-family units. The trend towards urban living and the high cost of homeownership in many cities make renting a more viable option for many individuals and families, thus driving the growth of the residential rental market.

Residential Real Estate remains a cornerstone of the real estate rental market, particularly as urban areas continue to expand. The demand for residential properties is driven by various factors, including population growth, urbanization, and the increasing preference for rental housing over homeownership. With cities becoming more densely populated, the need for accessible and affordable housing options is more critical than ever. Residential real estate offers a range of property

Average Monthly Household Expenditure: Cilacap Municipality data was reported at 7,738,270.000 IDR in 2018. Average Monthly Household Expenditure: Cilacap Municipality data is updated yearly, averaging 7,738,270.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 7,738,270.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 7,738,270.000 IDR in 2018. Average Monthly Household Expenditure: Cilacap Municipality data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB004: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Expenditure: by Cities and Commodities Group.

Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data was reported at 849,890.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data is updated yearly, averaging 849,890.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 849,890.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 849,890.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Ownership of Assets and Gifts data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB003: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Income: by Cities.

Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Net Profit data was reported at 4,330,475.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Net Profit data is updated yearly, averaging 4,330,475.000 IDR from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 4,330,475.000 IDR in 2018 and a record low of 4,330,475.000 IDR in 2018. Average Household Income: Bukittinggi Municipality: Net Profit data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB003: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Monthly Household Income: by Cities.

Average Family Size: Cilacap Municipality data was reported at 3.900 Person in 2018. Average Family Size: Cilacap Municipality data is updated yearly, averaging 3.900 Person from Dec 2018 (Median) to 2018, with 1 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.900 Person in 2018 and a record low of 3.900 Person in 2018. Average Family Size: Cilacap Municipality data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Statistics Indonesia. The data is categorized under Indonesia Premium Database’s Domestic Trade and Household Survey – Table ID.HB002: Cost of Living Survey (SBH-2018): Average Family Size: by Cities.

Barcelona, Madrid, and Donostia - San Sebastian were some of the most expensive cities to rent a house in Spain in February 2025. Barcelona, which is the capital of Catalonia, led the list with an average price of 23.7 euros per square meter. Madrid followed closely in the second position with an average square meter of rental residential property cost of 21.2 euros.