Moscow is the world’s most expensive city for expatriates for the second consecutive year, according to the latest Cost of Living Survey from Mercer Human Resource Consulting. To me, that isn’t really that surprisingly, what is are the fact that Seoul is above Tokyo in that regard. Hong Kong is not far behind at 5th place.
Also fascinating to me is that New York City is actually cheaper than Singapore. Sure does not feel that way, I guess due to the fact that this measures cost of living for expatriates. Locals are probably able to live under less comfortable along with harsher conditions. 
I guess things are always relative. I remembered fondly myself enjoying a meal in Shanghai for 2 Yuan or about 0.30 cents USD. In that same regard, I have also enjoyed many a meals at classy restaurants. So I guess it all depends on your own comfort level and what is deem the bare minimal; after all one man’s meat is another man’s poison.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I am suprised that Moscow is the most expensive city but then I do know Seoul is more expensive than Tokyo
Well, you and I both over Moscow. I think the survey is a little flawed in that it only looks at the expatriate point of view. Those expatriates as we all know have a higher minimum standard of comfort.