Hong Kong Crashes In Survey Of Best Asian Cites For Asian Expats

All that glitters is no longer gold as Asian expats query Hong Kong liveability

Once every expat’s favourite destination due to its fascinating culture, unique history and stunning lifestyle, Hong Kong is now losing its shine, especially with Asian expats. To be fair to the former British colony, a proportion of the disenchantment is being based on the effects of last year’s devastating Typhoon Mangkhut, the most powerful storm to hit the archipelago since records began. Although no-one was killed during the chaos, damage to buildings and the city’s infrastructure is estimated at $1 billion and has severely affected he main city’s liveability index.

Hong Kong’s plunge down the ratings table was the largest in Asia, but reflected increasing expat disenchantment with its offerings as regards security, career progression, political stability and socio-economic change. Its rival Singapore is still well in the running, having won its place as top spot for expats yet again due to its low crime rates, excellent healthcare, education and fantastic facilities. Although a number of Asian cities are snapping at its heels, Singapore’s ‘something extra’ is likely to make its run as top city unbeatable for at least the next few years.

The rapid development of a number of mainland China’s mega-cities and their popularity with expat entrepreneurs and tech wizards is expected to result in several appearing near the top spot in future years. Beijing, Xiamen and Nanjing are being tipped for the race, with their overall scores rising year on year, especially since China began to take its pollution problems seriously. Japanese cities are also competing strongly, with its capital Tokyo, second city Osaka, Yokohama and Nagoya all featuring in the top ten city listings. Osaka actually did well in the rankings in spite of another fierce weather event in the form of Typhoon Jebi. Other global highlights for Asian expat professionals included the Australian cities of Sydney and Brisbane, and New Zealand was a favourite for many.