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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Tsim Sha Tsui 2024
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Cost of Living in Tsim Sha Tsui

By Joshua Wood, LPC

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Tsim Sha Tsui helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: HKD 16,000 - 25,000 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: HKD 12,000 - 18,000 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: HKD 30,000 - 60,000 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: HKD 20,000 - 40,000 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: HKD 200,000 - 300,000
  • Price per square meter outside city center: HKD 100,000 - 200,000
Transportation
  • One-way ticket on local transport: HKD 10 - 15
  • Monthly transport pass: HKD 500 - 700
  • Taxi starting tariff: HKD 24 - 30
  • Taxi 1km tariff: HKD 8 - 10
  • Gasoline (1 liter): HKD 12 - 16
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): HKD 20 - 30
  • Bread (500g): HKD 10 - 20
  • Rice (1kg): HKD 10 - 20
  • Eggs (12): HKD 20 - 30
  • Chicken breast (1kg): HKD 50 - 80
  • Beef round (1kg): HKD 100 - 150
  • Apples (1kg): HKD 20 - 40
  • Tomatoes (1kg): HKD 15 - 30
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): HKD 5 - 10
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: HKD 50 - 100
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: HKD 300 - 600
  • Combo meal at a fast-food restaurant: HKD 30 - 50
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): HKD 40 - 60
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): HKD 40 - 60
  • Cappuccino: HKD 30 - 50
  • Soft drink (0.33-liter bottle): HKD 8 - 15
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment: HKD 1,000 - 2,000 per month
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): HKD 200 - 300 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool (or kindergarten) tuition: HKD 50,000 - 150,000 per year
  • Elementary school tuition: HKD 100,000 - 200,000 per year
  • Middle school tuition: HKD 150,000 - 250,000 per year
  • High school tuition: HKD 200,000 - 350,000 per year
Please note that the costs provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific location within Tsim Sha Tsui. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Tsim Sha Tsui

"Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the most expensive areas to live in the city. The cost of living is high, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being significantly more expensive than in other parts of Hong Kong. Eating out, especially at mid-range to high-end restaurants, can also be quite costly. Groceries are also more expensive than in other parts of the world, with imported goods being particularly pricey. Public transportation, while efficient and widely used, is also more expensive than in other cities. Healthcare in Hong Kong is excellent but can be costly, especially for non-residents. Private healthcare is particularly expensive. Leisure activities such as going to the cinema, gym memberships, and participating in sports clubs can also add to the cost of living. Despite the high cost of living, many people are drawn to Tsim Sha Tsui for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options, as well as its proximity to the business districts of Hong Kong," said one expat living in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Can I live in Tsim Sha Tsui on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Hong Kong for a while now, and I can tell you that living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Tsim Sha Tsui might be a bit challenging, but it's not impossible. You'll definitely have to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle, though.Firstly, you'll need to find affordable housing. Tsim Sha Tsui is a pretty expensive area, so you might want to consider living in a nearby neighborhood like Yau Ma Tei or Jordan, which are more budget-friendly. You can find small apartments or even shared accommodations in these areas that will be more affordable than Tsim Sha Tsui. Keep in mind that the living spaces in Hong Kong are generally smaller than what you might be used to, so be prepared to downsize.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on food and entertainment. Eating out in Hong Kong can be quite expensive, especially in Tsim Sha Tsui. However, there are plenty of local eateries and street food options in the nearby neighborhoods I mentioned earlier, where you can find delicious and affordable meals. Cooking at home can also help you save money, but groceries can be pricey too, so try shopping at local markets for fresh produce and meats.As for entertainment, there are many free or low-cost activities you can enjoy in Hong Kong. You can take advantage of the beautiful parks, hiking trails, and beaches, or explore the city's rich cultural heritage by visiting temples and museums. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive activities like going to bars, clubs, or fancy restaurants.Transportation in Hong Kong is relatively affordable, especially if you use public transport like the MTR, buses, and ferries. You can save even more by getting an Octopus card, which offers discounts on fares and can be used at many shops and restaurants as well.In conclusion, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Tsim Sha Tsui or nearby areas is possible, but you'll need to be prepared to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle. By finding affordable housing, being mindful of your spending on food and entertainment, and taking advantage of the many free or low-cost activities Hong Kong has to offer, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Can I live in Tsim Sha Tsui on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Hong Kong for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month in Tsim Sha Tsui, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a smaller apartment, as rent can be quite high in this area. You might want to consider looking for a flatshare or a studio apartment to save on rent. In terms of neighborhoods, Tsim Sha Tsui itself is quite expensive, so you might want to look into nearby areas like Jordan or Yau Ma Tei, which are more affordable and still within walking distance to Tsim Sha Tsui. These areas have a more local vibe, with plenty of street food and markets, which can help you save on food expenses as well.One of the sacrifices you'll have to make is cutting back on dining out at fancy restaurants, as eating out in Hong Kong can be quite pricey. Instead, you can explore the local food scene, which is not only more affordable but also delicious and authentic. Another thing to consider is transportation. While the MTR (subway) is efficient and relatively affordable, you might want to avoid taking taxis, as they can be quite expensive. Instead, consider using buses or walking when possible.Finally, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. Hong Kong has a lot of free or low-cost activities, like hiking, visiting parks, and exploring street markets. However, if you're into nightlife and clubbing, you might need to cut back on that, as it can be quite expensive in this city.Overall, it's possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month in Tsim Sha Tsui, but you'll need to be mindful of your expenses and make some sacrifices in terms of housing, dining, and entertainment," said one expat living in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Can I live in Tsim Sha Tsui on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Tsim Sha Tsui for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The biggest expense you'll face is housing. Tsim Sha Tsui is a popular and central area, so rents can be quite high. To save on rent, you might want to consider living in a smaller apartment or sharing a flat with roommates. You could also look into more affordable neighborhoods nearby, like Jordan or Yau Ma Tei, which are still close to Tsim Sha Tsui but tend to have lower rents.Another expense you'll need to consider is transportation. While Hong Kong's public transportation system is excellent and relatively affordable, you might want to avoid taking taxis too often, as they can be quite expensive. Instead, try to rely on the MTR, buses, and ferries to get around.Eating out can also be pricey, especially if you're used to Western-style restaurants and bars. However, there are plenty of affordable local eateries where you can enjoy delicious meals for a fraction of the price. You might also want to consider cooking at home more often to save on food costs.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Hong Kong. You can enjoy the city's many parks, hiking trails, and beaches without spending a dime. There are also plenty of affordable attractions, like the Star Ferry and the Avenue of Stars, which offer great views of the city without breaking the bank.In terms of shopping, you'll find that some items, like electronics and clothing, can be quite expensive in Hong Kong. To save money, you might want to consider shopping at local markets or discount stores, rather than high-end malls and boutiques.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Tsim Sha Tsui is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, relying on public transportation, eating at local restaurants, and enjoying low-cost leisure activities, you can make the most of your budget and still enjoy a great quality of life in Hong Kong," commented an expat living in Tsim Sha Tsui.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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