The Julius Baer Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026 highlights some of the world’s most expensive cities for maintaining a premium lifestyle. Property prices, currency movements, luxury goods, transport and high-end services all influence costs for HNWIs, business travellers and relocators. From Singapore and Zurich to London and Bangkok, these cities show where luxury living comes at a significant premium.
10 Global Cities Where the Cost of Living Is Rising Fastest
1. Singapore
Singapore’s expensive property market, strong currency and high vehicle ownership costs make premium living particularly costly. Orchard Road and Marina Bay are popular upscale locations, with excellent connectivity, shopping, and a wide selection of serviced apartments.
2. Zurich
High salaries, a strong Swiss franc and limited housing supply contribute to Zurich’s premium living costs. Enge offers a quieter lakeside setting, while Altstadt combines historic surroundings with upscale accommodation and convenient access to central Zurich.
3. Monaco
Limited land, exceptionally expensive real estate and its appeal to wealthy international residents make Monaco one of the costliest places for luxury living. Monte Carlo and beachfront Larvotto are among its most prestigious areas.
4. Hong Kong
Limited developable land and strong demand for prime property keep luxury housing costs high in Hong Kong. Central and the Mid-Levels provide easy access to the financial district, while The Peak is known for prestigious homes and city views.
5. London
London’s global financial importance and strong international property demand keep premium living costs high. Mayfair and Kensington and Chelsea are particularly sought-after, while travellers can also consider flexible stays in serviced apartments near key business and leisure districts.
6. Shanghai
Shanghai’s role as a major financial and commercial hub attracts affluent residents and global executives, supporting high prime-property costs. The Former French Concession offers historic character, while Lujiazui provides modern high-rise living in the heart of Pudong.
7. Paris
High global demand, limited development in historic districts and a well-established luxury market keep premium areas of Paris expensive. Le Marais blends heritage with designer boutiques, while the 8th Arrondissement is known for luxury shopping, business and grand architecture.
8. Sydney
Sydney combines strong international appeal with expensive prime housing and high lifestyle costs. Circular Quay and the CBD provide harbour access and central convenience, while Double Bay offers an exclusive residential setting with upscale retail and dining.
9. Milan
As Italy’s financial, fashion and design capital, Milan attracts affluent professionals and international visitors, supporting high central rental costs. The Quadrilatero della Moda is ideal for luxury shopping, while Brera offers galleries, historic streets and refined apartments.
10. Bangkok
Bangkok’s premium lifestyle market is supported by international investment, luxury hospitality and rapid development in prime districts. Sukhumvit is popular for dining, shopping and upscale residences, while Pathumwan and Ratchadamri feature high-end malls and premium high-rises.
Key Insights from the 2026 Index
- The Index compares a basket of 20 goods and services across 25 global cities to assess the cost of maintaining a premium lifestyle.
- Currency movements can materially affect city rankings, alongside property, transport and luxury-service costs.
- The findings are particularly useful for globally mobile individuals and families comparing lifestyle costs and purchasing power across destinations.
Living in a High-Cost Global City
The world’s most expensive cities show how property demand, currencies, luxury services and local market conditions can shape the cost of premium living. For business travellers and relocators, accommodation is another important consideration. Flexible serviced accommodation from providers such as TheSquare can offer an alternative to hotels or lengthy rental commitments when staying in major global cities.
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