Hong Kong is an excellent place for anyone looking to set up a new life abroad. There’s a lot to know about this city in South China, which stands alone as a special administrative region.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you’ll need to know about Hong Kong, from the cost of living to the work-life balance and cultures.
Let’s jump in!
1. Chinese and English are the official languages
Despite being a city in China, both Chinese and English are named the official speaking languages. This is due to its previous link as a former British colony. It only gained its independence from the UK in 1997.
Many expats living in Hong Kong can speak English rather than the local language. It can feel quite alienating if you don’t have much in your native language being said in the country.
2. The cost of living in Hong Kong is high
While there may be plenty of benefits and advantages to living in Hong Kong, it’s essential to be aware of the cost of living. It’s considered one of the most expensive compared to other places located in Asia.
A one-bedroom apartment in America could cost, on average, USD 1225 a month. You could be paying USD 2,220 a month for a similar apartment in Hong Kong! The difference in living expenses is pretty substantial.
According to My Life Elsewhere, an American citizen can spend more on housing, childcare, entertainment, clothing, transportation, and groceries. That means that eating out at restaurants is the only factor cheaper than in the US.
Even if you manage to have a substantial amount of money to bring over, the cost of living in this expensive city will likely do some severe damage to your savings!
But that’s the price you pay (proving a hefty price) moving abroad to a beautiful, iconic city.
3. Hong Kong’s transportation system is great
Even though Hong Kong is high in density, the transport system is excellent compared to other cities. Though the cost of living can be expensive, such as purchasing private transport and gasoline, public transportation is relatively cheaper than most.
The city offers many public transport options from taxi, rail, ferry, bus or tram. Its transportation options are considered safe and efficient, especially for new expats who struggle with local cultures dissimilar to their own.
You can get anywhere in Hong Kong with the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), meaning you won’t need to spend money on a car!
4. There’s lots to see and do
Living in Hong Kong offers many opportunities. Your schedule will be jam-packed with sights to see in your new home country. If you’ve ever visited the city before, you’ll likely know that the city is a hub of activity.
Suggestions for things to see and do include visiting Hong Kong Disneyland, heading down to Victoria Harbour and Victoria Peak, and exploring Ngong Ping 360.
5. Knowing the proper etiquette is key
Basic etiquette is essential when visiting Hong Kong. When visiting anywhere for the first time, you want to know the ground rules, not offend anyone.
There are things you should do and things that you shouldn’t do in Hong Kong. Here are just a few to start with:
- Serve others before serving yourself in restaurants.
- Any burping or spitting is rude.
- Give and receive with two hands at all times.
Knowing basic etiquette will help a lot if you’re looking to move to Hong Kong.
6. The food is diverse and delicious
China has plenty of diverse foods that can challenge some Western countries. There are some relatively famous dishes that you should try when you head over to this part of the world and some that may be a world away from your usual diet.
Some familiar dishes that you might be accustomed to already are wontons, chicken’s feet, and dumplings. For those that want to try something truly unique, you’ve got delicacies like stinky tofu, sea cucumbers, and chicken testicles.
The food is diverse and delicious, so try everything at least once!
7. Finding good accommodation can be a challenge
Finding reasonable accommodation for expats and those migrating to the city is not easy. If you’re looking for accommodation in Hong Kong, then you should know a lot of your income may go towards rent and other living costs.
Prices can range significantly according to the area you’re looking at. For example, you may pay HKD 100,000 per month for a three-bed apartment in the exclusive Peak area. This converts to around $12,761. Yep – pretty steep!
Some popular expat destinations to aim for when living in Hong Kong are Discovery Bay or Mid-Levels.
8. Job opportunities are usually in abundance
With Hong Kong being a hub for industry and commerce, there’s no shortage of jobs available. There’s a lot of global talent that therefore flock to this region of the country for opportunities that are available in abundance.
However, while plenty of jobs might go, the competition is fierce. You’ll want to agree on a contract before moving your whole life out to Hong Kong.
9. Taxes for expats in Hong Kong
It’s essential to understand the taxes you’ll be expected to pay, even as an expat in Hong Kong. When it comes to earning money, it’s crucial to have the correct bank account set up and declare income if you’re making it as a self-employed individual.
All workers pay an income tax percentage of how much they earn. For anyone making between 1-50,000 HKD, you’re charged 2% tax, whereas, for anyone earning between 100,000-150,000 HKD, it’s 10%.
10. The work-life balance in Hong Kong
A lot of the work-life balance of any job can be down to the company’s attitudes, but sometimes, the country in question can influence this. As far as Hong Kong is concerned, it ranks 35 out of 40 cities in its work-life balance.
The city, therefore, may be hit and miss when it comes to getting a healthy balance between work and play.
Make sure not to isolate yourself if you’re moving abroad by yourself. Buy a local sim card to keep in touch with your friends and family back in the states.
11. Hong Kong has a robust healthcare system
Hong Kong is considered one of the healthiest places in the world. This is likely due to such well-developed healthcare and medication service. Many residents in Hong Kong can live a long and healthy life.
It’s worthwhile getting health insurance to cover any costs incurred when using the healthcare system as an expat.
12. Hong Kong’s education system
The education system in Hong Kong is of excellent quality. Public and private schools in the city are great for those bringing over families; however, private schools are more expensive.
Their international schools are ideal for expats where the children don’t speak Cantonese.
13. The quality of life in Hong Kong
According to the Quality of Life Index, Quality of life ranks 25th out of 67 countries. Most life expectancy for those birthed in 2020 was 85 years old. That’s significantly higher than in some countries.
14. Hong Kong has diverse landscapes
Even though it’s a city, Hong Kong surprisingly has many diverse landscapes to explore beyond the bright lights and skyscrapers.
Beyond the cityscape, you’ve got steep mountains and hills that fall to the coast, making it a pretty stark contrast that is hard to find elsewhere.
15. An extremely friendly and safe place to raise a family
Hong Kong is highly safe for families looking for an environment to bring up their kids.
It’s a friendly city that most families find easy when settling into expat life.
16. Crime in Hong Kong is generally low
Crime can be a concern for many of us looking to move to a new city, let alone a new country. Rest assured, though, crime in Hong Kong is considerably lower than in most places regarding expat destination options.
Its low crime might be down to its anti-corruption strategies, a complaint population, strict gun laws, etc.
17. The official currency is the Hong Kong dollar
As a special administrative region of China, it has its official currency, Hong Kong Dollar. The money associated with the rest of the country is Renminbi. The HKD is one of the most exchanged currencies in the world!
18. Finding the right work permit
In Hong Kong, foreigners can work in the city so long as they have a Hong Kong Visa or Work Permit.
To live the expat life in Hong Kong, the city has its own special work permit scheme. This is called Employment for Professionals. The criteria for this scheme include an excellent educational background, a confirmed employment offer, and no criminal record or security restrictions.
This work permit allows the expat to work for a year, which can be renewed. More information can be found here.
There’s also Hong Kong’s Entrepreneur Visa Scheme for those looking to relocate to start their own business.
19. Hong Kong is famous for towering skyscrapers
The city of Hong Kong is often referred to for its towering skyscrapers and has plenty to rival some of the tallest. The tallest one they have currently is the 108-storey International Commerce Centre. It’s the 12th tallest building globally at a staggering 1,588ft.
Also, most expats may question how perfectly particular the buildings look in Hong Kong.
Well, there’s a reason for this.
Architects in Hong Kong follow the practice of Feng Shui, which translates to wind and water. They believe in aligning buildings to prevent misfortune and instead radiate a beautiful connection between a person and their environment.
20. There are a range of religious communities
For Hong Kong residents, most will identify with ‘Chinese Folk Religions‘. The remaining population comprises Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, and other religions. Some smaller numbers of the people are Jewish, Sikh, and Hindu.
21. The weather is brilliant
Hong Kong is a sub-tropical climate, with November and December being the coolest parts of the year. The city experiences all four seasons: a warm and humid spring, a sunny and pleasant autumn, a cool winter, and hot/rainy summer.
FAQs
Where is the largest expat community in Hong Kong?
If you’re looking to move to Hong Kong, there are some great spots worth gravitating toward if you’re looking for an expat community.
There are three key areas that expats will usually go for Stanley and Pokfulam, the Peak, New Territories, Sai Kung, and Clear Water Bay.
Is it safe to move to Hong Kong as an expat?
Generally speaking, it’s safe to move to Hong Kong as an expat. The advanced economy means there are low rates of crime that occur. The crime that does occur is no different than what is expected to happen in most cities across the globe.
Where do expat families live in Hong Kong?
Several places appeal to families when living in Hong Kong. These include:
- Mid-Levels
- Repulse Bay
- The Peak
- West Kowloon
- Wan Chai
What is Wan Chai known for?
It’s known for its night races and the incredible architecture found in this area. The area is also considered one of the best places to live in Hong Kong for locals and expats.
What is Hong Kong Island most famous for?
Hong Kong Island is an island in the southern area of Hong Kong. It’s home to famous sights such as The Peak and many other historical sites. It’s also a popular spot for its variety of enormous shopping centers.
Final Thoughts
Moving abroad can be a daunting prospect for anybody. Whether you’re heading off alone or with family, it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Sure, expat living will prove more expensive, and getting used to the local culture will be a shock to the system. But can’t you imagine living in this bustling, beautiful city?
Other expats can. Are you ready to take your first step?
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