So Which of These Asian Destinations Is the Better Place to Live?
Welcome back to the blog! Today we’re diving into a much-discussed topic among expatriates and global nomads, especially those who live in Asia: Which is the better place to live—Hong Kong or Singapore?
This debate is close to my heart because I’ve lived in both cities. In this article, I’ll explore the pros and cons of each place through a few key categories: economic opportunities, quality of life, cost of living, education, leisure, and cultural diversity. While I have my personal favourite, I’ll present a balanced view so you can decide which city might suit you best.
Misconceptions and First Impressions
As I write this, I’ve just returned from walking through Benjakitti Park in Bangkok, where I currently live. The beauty and efficiency of this city often surprise people who have outdated stereotypes about Southeast Asia. The same can be said for Singapore and Hong Kong. Many newcomers arrive with assumptions that don’t match reality—especially when it comes to how modern, organised, and vibrant these cities actually are.
Economic Opportunities
Let’s begin with job prospects. Both Hong Kong and Singapore are economic powerhouses with high GDP per capita and impressive infrastructure.
- Singapore had a projected GDP per capita of approximately $88,000 in 2024, making it one of the richest nations in Southeast Asia.
- Hong Kong’s GDP per capita is slightly lower at around $52,000, but it still far surpasses most neighbouring economies.
Singapore has a more diverse economy, with strong industries in finance, technology, biotech, education, and logistics. Hong Kong, by contrast, is heavily centred around finance, with a strong banking and investment sector that has long made it a magnet for professionals in that field.
If you’re in a sector outside finance, Singapore may offer more opportunities across a range of industries.
Demographics and Diversity
The population of Singapore is about 5.9 million, with nearly 30% being expatriates. In Hong Kong, the population stands at around 7.2 million, but only 9% are expats.
One thing that really stood out to me was how multicultural and inclusive Singapore felt. It has a dynamic blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, Filipino, and Western influences, and this cultural mix is celebrated across society. You’ll hear multiple languages, including English, Mandarin, Tamil, and Bahasa Melayu, and see incredible diversity just walking down Orchard Road.
Hong Kong is also ethnically Chinese, and while it does have a substantial expatriate population, the city has felt more politically volatile in recent years, particularly due to increasing influence from mainland China. Most people in Hong Kong speak Cantonese, whereas Mandarin is more common in mainland China.
In terms of language and integration, Singapore’s use of English as a primary working language makes it particularly accessible for newcomers. From a teacher’s perspective, I found that my classrooms in Singapore had an incredible mix of students—from Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, the US, and Europe. In contrast, Hong Kong’s international schools often enrol local students, which gave me a meaningful opportunity to teach the local population, something that’s not always the case elsewhere.
Cultural Life and Food
When it comes to cuisine, Singapore comes out on top. Its multicultural roots have given rise to one of the most exciting food scenes in the world. Hawker centres offer everything from laksa and nasi lemak to Indian curries and Chinese dumplings—all at affordable prices.
Hong Kong, on the other hand, is a dream for fans of traditional Cantonese cuisine. However, if you’re used to Western-style Chinese food (like beef in black bean sauce or sweet and sour pork), you might find it a bit unfamiliar. While Hong Kong does have some international restaurants, the variety and affordability found in Singapore are hard to beat.
My Experience in Both Cities
I’ve had the privilege of living in both cities twice.
- I first moved to Singapore after living in the Philippines and stayed for four years. Later, I returned for another two years.
- My time in Hong Kong came after a stint in mainland China. I lived there with my wife and two daughters for four years, left briefly, and then returned for another four years.
In total, I’ve spent six years in Singapore and eight years in Hong Kong. While Singapore was my original dream destination, Hong Kong gradually came to feel more like home, especially as it was where my daughters graduated and where we built a stronger sense of family life.
However, I’ve tried not to let personal bias cloud this comparison. Ultimately, your ideal city will depend on who you are—a family, a single professional, or a couple. Each demographic will experience these cities differently.
Quality of Life
Both cities offer excellent quality of life, but in different ways.
Singapore is famously clean and safe. While it has a reputation for strict laws and fines, that’s often exaggerated. In reality, it’s just well-managed. Public spaces are spotless, crime rates are low, and infrastructure is top-notch.
The food culture is unmatched, and the public transport system is efficient, clean, and affordable. However, Singapore is expensive—especially when it comes to rent and alcohol. A one-bedroom apartment can range from $2,500 to $3,500 per month. Dining out and nightlife can quickly eat into your salary, which is something to consider if you’re single or enjoy an active social life.
Hong Kong shares many of these strengths: safety, modern infrastructure, and vibrant street life. But it tends to feel a little more crowded and hectic. Housing is notoriously small and expensive, although you can sometimes find deals if you’re willing to live further from the centre.
In Hong Kong, rent can be even more expensive—ranging from $3,000 to $4,000 per month, depending on the location. If you choose to live on Hong Kong Island, prepare for compact living spaces due to limited land. However, moving out to areas like the New Territories, where I used to live, offers a completely different lifestyle—more space, greater access to nature, and a much higher quality of life. We had access to national parks, hiking trails, beaches, and even the option to live in ground-floor villas rather than high-rise apartments. When I lived on Hong Kong Island, I was on the 25th floor, which is quite typical there.
This vertical lifestyle is also common in Singapore, although both cities benefit from efficient public transport. Singapore’s MRT system is modern, clean, and extensive—it covers almost everywhere you’d need to go and is also very affordable. Hong Kong’s transport network is similarly comprehensive, though it’s a bit older and perhaps not quite as polished as Singapore’s. Still, it remains highly efficient and reliable.
Green Spaces and Outdoor Living
Singapore often markets itself as a “city in a garden,” and for good reason. It’s extremely green and well-planned, offering a very pleasant environment. Some find it a little sterile, but I think that depends on where you go. There are places to hike, but these are quite limited. As for beaches, there is Sentosa Island, a beautiful, if man-made, beach destination. It’s enjoyable but doesn’t quite compare to natural white sand beaches.
By contrast, Hong Kong has incredible outdoor offerings. Where I lived, I regularly went hiking, swimming, and even camping on stunning beaches—places I’d compare favourably to those back home in Australia. Hong Kong’s climate also offers variety: summers can be hot and humid, but winters bring cooler temperatures that make outdoor activities like running, cycling, and hiking much more enjoyable. Singapore, on the other hand, is flat, hot, and humid all year round, with the only variation being whether it’s raining or not.
If you’re single, Hong Kong has a much more vibrant nightlife with loads of bars, nightclubs, and a colourful, energetic vibe. Singapore leans more towards a “work hard, party less” culture. It does have nightlife and a strong expat bar scene, but it doesn’t match Hong Kong in terms of excitement. For families, Singapore may have the edge thanks to its clean, green layout and reputation for safety, though once you get off Hong Kong Island, you’ll find that Hong Kong also has plenty of green space, particularly in the New Territories.
Outdoor Lifestyle: Who Wins?
In terms of outdoor leisure, Hong Kong wins hands down. From rugged hiking trails in the New Territories and even on Hong Kong Island, to famous multi-day routes like the MacLehose Trail, the landscape is stunning. There’s a strong beach and boating culture, with locals often hiring junk boats to explore hidden islands and swim in remote coves.
Where I lived in Sai Kung, it had more of a fishing village vibe. We’d see fishing boats bringing in their catch to the local markets. The lifestyle there was much more relaxed and nature-oriented, while still being a short commute from the city.
Singapore does offer a toned-down version of these activities. It’s great for cycling, especially in areas like East Coast Park, where you’ll also find families enjoying rollerblading, water sports, and picnics. However, it lacks the natural topography that makes outdoor living in Hong Kong so appealing.
Education and Teaching
As an international school teacher, education is an important factor for me—and for any families with children. I’ve worked at two schools in Singapore and one in Hong Kong, and both cities offer top-tier international education options. Many schools follow the IB curriculum, though there are also British and American curriculum schools in both locations.
Workload varies by school rather than by city. Both Singapore and Hong Kong have reputations for being high-performance environments, but my experience in international schools has been excellent in both. I didn’t work at the very top-tier schools, but the balance between salary, benefits, and workload was right for me. Packages typically include housing, healthcare, flights, and more, and the pay reflects the cost of living. Some schools in Singapore pay more, but may also expect more; some in Hong Kong offer a more laid-back experience. It really depends on the school’s culture.
Final Verdict: Which City Wins?
Ultimately, your choice between Singapore and Hong Kong depends on your personal situation. If you’re after financial opportunity, dynamic city life, and don’t mind a faster pace, Hong Kong might be your winner. If you’re looking for a more balanced lifestyle, safer streets, and a family-friendly environment, then Singapore is hard to beat.
Having spent more time in Hong Kong, I lean slightly in its favour—especially after three years in Thailand, where I’ve grown tired of the relentless heat. Hong Kong offers me two things I miss: seasonal weather and varied terrain. As an Australian, access to good beaches is non-negotiable!
That said, Singapore’s multiculturalism, modern infrastructure, and especially its incredible food scene could easily draw me back.
Either way, both cities offer a high quality of life, and choosing between them comes down to your own priorities and goals. Let me know in the comments—which city would you choose to live and work in?