Cost of Living for One Person in 12 Major Cities Worldwide (2025)

Discover the estimated cost of living for a single person in 12 major cities worldwide in 2025. This includes expenses for rent, utilities, transportation, food, and other daily necessities. Learn how living costs vary across different global cities and what factors contribute to these differences, helping you plan and budget effectively for urban life in the coming year.

As of 2025, the cost of living for a single individual varies significantly across major global cities, influenced by factors such as housing, utilities, transportation, and daily expenses. Below is an overview of the estimated monthly costs in 12 prominent cities worldwide:

1. New York City, USA

• Population: 8.1 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,687.10
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $3,926.65
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $5,613.75

New York City consistently ranks as one of the most expensive cities globally, with housing costs being a significant contributor. The high demand for real estate, coupled with limited space, drives up rental prices. Additionally, daily expenses such as dining, transportation, and entertainment are notably higher than the national average.

2. San Francisco, USA

• Population: 788,000
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,556.60
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $3,222.58
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $4,779.18

San Francisco's proximity to Silicon Valley has made it a hub for technology professionals, leading to a surge in housing demand and, consequently, rental prices. The city's high cost of living is also reflected in its dining and entertainment sectors, which cater to a high-income population.

3. London, United Kingdom

• Population: 9.7 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,311
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $2,772.91
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $4,083.91

London remains one of Europe's most expensive cities, with high housing costs driven by demand in central areas. The city's extensive public transportation system offers some relief in commuting expenses, but overall living costs, including food and leisure activities, remain high.

4. Singapore

• Population: 6.1 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,131.30
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $2,921.58
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $4,052.88

Singapore's limited land area and high population density contribute to its elevated housing costs. The city-state's strategic economic position in Asia attracts a significant expatriate community, further driving demand in the housing market.

5. Chicago, USA

• Population: 2.6 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,287.30
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $2,325.34
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $3,612.64

Chicago offers a relatively lower cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities like New York and San Francisco. However, housing and daily expenses are still considerable, especially in central districts.

6. Sydney, Australia

• Population: 5.2 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,116.70
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $2,159.11
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $3,275.81

Sydney's desirable climate and economic opportunities make it a sought-after location, leading to high housing costs. The city's dining and entertainment options also contribute to the overall cost of living.

7. Lisbon, Portugal

• Population: 3 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $781.70
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $1,481.93
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $2,263.63

Lisbon offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Western European capitals. While housing costs have been rising due to increased demand, daily expenses such as food and transportation remain moderate.

8. Tokyo, Japan

• Population: 37.1 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $961.80
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $1,113.08
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $2,074.88

Tokyo, despite being one of the world's largest cities, offers relatively affordable housing options, especially when compared to Western cities. Efficient public transportation and a wide range of dining choices allow for flexible budgeting.

9. Seoul, South Korea

• Population: 10 million
• Estimated Monthly Expenses (Excluding Rent): $1,073.20
• Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in City Center: $822.97
• Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $1,896.17

Seoul's cost of living is relatively moderate, with affordable housing options even in central areas. The city's extensive public transportation network and diverse food scene contribute to manageable daily expenses.

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