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Digital Nomad Guide to Hong Kong, Hong Kong | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Hong Kong

Digital Nomad Life in Hong Kong

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital nomads love living in Hong Kong because it is a vibrant and exciting city with a great quality of life. It is a major international hub for business, finance, and technology, and offers a wide range of cultural activities and attractions. The city is also known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. The best neighborhood to live in Hong Kong for digital nomads is Central, which is the city’s main business and financial district. It is home to many of the city’s top attractions, including the Peak, the Star Ferry, and the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Central is also home to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a great place to live and work. The approximate population of Hong Kong is 7.5 million people. The weather in Hong Kong is generally mild and humid, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 59°F (15°C) in the winter to an average high of 86°F (30°C) in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Hong Kong can vary greatly depending on lifestyle and budget. Generally, a digital nomad can expect to spend around $2,000-$3,000 USD per month on rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost of renting a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Hong Kong is approximately $2,500-$3,500 USD per month.

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How do I meet people in Hong Kong?

When we asked people living in Hong Kong about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Hong Kong often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people through networking events, online forums, and social media groups. Additionally, many expats join local churches, volunteer organizations, and professional associations to meet people and build relationships," said one expat in Hong Kong.

What is life like in Hong Kong?

When we asked people living in Hong Kong what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Hong Kong as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and cosmopolitan hub, with a unique blend of East and West. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's world-class infrastructure, excellent public transportation, and a wide range of cultural activities. The city is also home to a diverse range of international restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's low taxes and low cost of living. With its stunning skyline, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, Hong Kong is an ideal destination for those looking for an exciting and rewarding lifestyle," explained one person living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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Where should I live in Hong Kong?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Hong Kong can be a daunting task. It is important to research the different neighborhoods and districts to find the best fit for your lifestyle. You can start by looking at online listings such as Craigslist, Expat.com, and AsiaXPAT. Additionally, you can look for rental agencies that specialize in Hong Kong properties. These agencies can provide you with a list of available properties and help you find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, you can look for local newspapers and magazines that list rental properties. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Hong Kong for advice and recommendations," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"We used a relocation company/agent to help us find our first neighborhood and apartment. It was great - but full of other expats. We wish we would have lived in an area with more local culture. Newcomers will want to think about that - do they want more local culture or comforts from home?," said one person in Hong Kong.

What do I need to know before moving to Hong Kong?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Hong Kong, they said:

"Before retiring in Hong Kong, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than in other parts of the world. It is important to research the different types of visas available and the associated requirements for each. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system and the availability of medical insurance. Finally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," said one person in Hong Kong.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Hong Kong?

"people are friendly and polite most of the time. Hong Kong is very clean in most respects (not the ocean or the air though), and is very safe. It has excellent public transport and english signage, and is easy to explore. I do live on Hong Kong island which is expat friendly though, and I am sure this is why it sometimes gets called "Asia lite"," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Expatriates in Hong Kong appreciate the city's vibrant energy and its unique blend of East and West. They also enjoy the city's diverse cuisine, which offers a variety of flavors from all over the world. Expats also appreciate the city's efficient public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Additionally, expats enjoy the city's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional festivals, temples, and markets. Finally, expats appreciate the city's welcoming and friendly people, who are always willing to help out newcomers," said one person in Hong Kong.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Hong Kong?

"Expats in Hong Kong often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The fast-paced lifestyle and the high cost of living can be difficult to get used to. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand, as they are quite different from those of other countries. Finally, the lack of personal space and the crowdedness of the city can be overwhelming for expats," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"I am not overly fond of cantonese food (except dim sum), but there are so many eating options here it is not a problem. The lack of environmental awareness amongst most Hong Kongers is worrying. The obsession with conspicuous wealth, big shiny cars, designer brands etc is a bit much for someone like me who lives in shorts and thongs (flip flops), and owns one handbag of unknown brand! Local kids are hard to make friends with as they seem to always be at tutoring of some sort. The local education system is fundamentally flawed and very stressful I imagine," said one person in Hong Kong.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Hong Kong for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Hong Kong for a while, you will need to apply for a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) or a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card (HKPIC). Depending on your nationality, you may also need to apply for a visa or other residency documents. You should contact the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for more information on the specific documents you will need," said one person in Hong Kong.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Hong Kong?

We asked people in Hong Kong if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Hong Kong. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to gesture with your whole hand. It is also important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to eating. For example, it is considered polite to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices. For example, it is considered disrespectful to take photos of people praying in temples. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public," remarked one member in Hong Kong.

"probably! But can't recall them - I am not easily embarrassed. I tend to assume the best intentions in others, and so I guess i expect people to reciprocate and overlook any unintentional blunders. A smile, and a few cantonese words works wonders," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

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Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

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What are healthcare services like in Hong Kong?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Hong Kong, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Hong Kong are known for their high quality and efficiency, with a well-developed public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is heavily subsidized by the government, providing affordable and comprehensive medical services to residents. Public hospitals and clinics are widely accessible, offering a range of services including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. The private healthcare sector in Hong Kong is also well-established, offering a more personalized and prompt service to patients who can afford it. Private hospitals and clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained medical professionals, catering to both local and expatriate communities. In addition to Western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine is also widely practiced and integrated into the healthcare system, with many residents seeking alternative treatments and therapies. Pharmacies are easily accessible, and most medications can be obtained over the counter without a prescription. Overall, Hong Kong's healthcare services are highly regarded for their quality, accessibility, and efficiency, ensuring that residents have access to top-notch medical care," explained one person living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

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Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are the pros and cons of living in Hong Kong?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Hong Kong often like the city's vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and efficient public transportation system. They appreciate the ease of doing business, the availability of high-speed internet, and the city's status as a global financial hub. The proximity to other Asian destinations and the mix of Eastern and Western influences also make Hong Kong an attractive place to live. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing, which can be both expensive and cramped. The city's pollution and humidity can also be a downside, as well as the language barrier, as not everyone speaks English. Additionally, the political situation and ongoing protests may cause concern for some expats and digital nomads living in Hong Kong," said one foreigner in Hong Kong.

SJB GlobalSJB Global
Connect

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to Hong Kong Network Contribute
Help others in Hong Kong by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Hong Kong.

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