San Francisco vs Hong Kong

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Hong Kong is roughly 1% more affordable than San Francisco (index 88 vs 89, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Hong Kong
More affordable overall
1% cheaper than San Francisco · Cost index: 88 vs 89

Head-to-Head Stats

89Cost Index88
8,160Median Income /mo2,533
45Safety Index82
37Income Tax %10
150Internet (Mbps)110
450Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

San FranciscoCategoryHong Kong
$3,024/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
19% ← cheaper
$2,438/month
$5.11/liter
Meal for One
37% ← cheaper
$3.2/liter
$25/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
28% ← cheaper
$17.92/meal
$98/month
Monthly Transit Pass
15% ← cheaper
$83.33/month
$389/month
Utilities (Monthly)
49% ← cheaper
$198/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
32% ← cheaper
$102/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

San Francisco

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$450/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability87/100

Hong Kong

Internet110 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability88/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Francisco cheaper than Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is cheaper than San Francisco. Hong Kong has a cost of living index of 88/100 compared to 89/100 for San Francisco, making it roughly 1% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Hong Kong than San Francisco?

Hong Kong is approximately 1% cheaper than San Francisco based on cost index scores (88 vs 89, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in San Francisco could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,966/month in Hong Kong.

What is the rent comparison between San Francisco and Hong Kong?

In San Francisco, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $3,024/month. In Hong Kong, the equivalent is around $2,438/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — San Francisco or Hong Kong?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. San Francisco offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$450/month. Hong Kong offers 110 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Hong Kong has a cost advantage of 1%.

What is the average income in San Francisco vs Hong Kong?

The median net monthly salary in San Francisco is approximately $8,160 USD, compared to $2,533 USD in Hong Kong.

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