Here is a detailed table of the best places in Hong Kong for expats to live, considering factors such as lifestyle, amenities, accessibility, housing options, and local culture:
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Perfect for | Why It’s Great for Expats | Top Spots | Housing Options | Schools | Amenities | Transportation | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central | Urban, Fast-paced, Trendy | Professionals, Young professionals, Nightlife lovers | Central is the financial heart of Hong Kong and offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with international businesses, luxury shopping, and an abundance of dining and entertainment options. It's perfect for expats working in finance or related fields. | Lan Kwai Fong (nightlife), SoHo (cafes, galleries) | Luxury apartments, modern high-rises, penthouses | Hong Kong International School, French International School | Shopping malls (IFC, Landmark), international dining, rooftop bars, cultural activities | MTR, buses, ferries, taxis, walking | Expensive housing, busy, crowded during peak hours, noise |
| Sheung Wan | Hip, Artistic, Bohemian | Creative types, Young professionals | Sheung Wan blends old-world charm with modern, artistic touches. It’s a vibrant and up-and-coming area with cafes, art galleries, and antique shops, making it great for expats who want to live in a cultural hub. | Hollywood Road (art galleries), Man Mo Temple | Mix of older walk-ups, renovated lofts, new condos | The International School of Hong Kong | Quirky cafes, art galleries, markets, boutique shopping | MTR, buses, walking, ferries | Can be crowded, limited high-end facilities, small apartments in some buildings |
| Causeway Bay | Bustling, Trendy, Youthful | Shoppers, Foodies, Young expats | Causeway Bay is an energetic, vibrant neighborhood full of shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment. It's perfect for those who want to live near the action while enjoying excellent dining and retail options. | Times Square, Victoria Park, Hysan Place | High-rise apartments, luxury condos, serviced apartments | Hong Kong International School, Japanese International School | Shopping malls (Times Square), restaurants, fitness centers, public parks | MTR, buses, trams, taxis | Extremely crowded, higher rent, commercial feel in some areas |
| Sai Ying Pun | Up-and-coming, Young, Trendy | Young professionals, Foodies, Hipsters | Sai Ying Pun has a laid-back but trendy vibe with a mix of modern dining spots, local markets, and historic sites. It’s an affordable alternative to Central with growing popularity among the younger expat community. | Kiu Kwan (coffee), variety of eateries and bars | Older buildings, renovated walk-ups, boutique apartments | International School of Hong Kong | Trendy restaurants, cafes, local markets, bars, public parks | MTR, buses, taxis, walking | Can be noisy, limited luxury amenities, less polished compared to Central |
| Discovery Bay | Suburban, Family-friendly, Relaxed | Families, Nature lovers, Those seeking peace | Discovery Bay offers a more suburban lifestyle with access to green spaces, beaches, and recreational facilities. It’s a great place for families, especially those with young children. It also has a strong expat community. | Discovery Bay Beach, The Plaza | Spacious townhouses, villas, apartments with sea views | Discovery Bay International School, Discovery Bay International Kindergarten | Parks, beach, community events, international schools, supermarkets, fitness clubs | Ferry to Central, buses, walking | Far from the city center, transportation can be inconvenient, higher rent than other suburbs |
| Mid-Levels | Green, Prestigious, Calm | Families, Expats seeking peace with urban access | Mid-Levels offers a quieter, more prestigious neighborhood while still being close to the heart of Hong Kong. It’s perfect for families and expats who want green space with easy access to the business district. | Hong Kong Park, The Peak (hiking) | Luxury apartments, large family residences | The Hong Kong International School, French International School | Green spaces, hiking trails, cafes, cultural landmarks, close to Central’s dining and shopping | Peak Tram, MTR, buses, walking | High rent, traffic congestion during peak hours |
| Pok Fu Lam | Quiet, Green, Family-focused | Families, Nature lovers | Pok Fu Lam is a peaceful neighborhood with easy access to nature, including hiking trails and parks. It’s a great location for families who want a mix of urban and natural surroundings. | Pok Fu Lam Country Park, The University of Hong Kong | Larger apartments, family homes, condos with sea views | The International School of Hong Kong, Kennedy School | Parks, green spaces, local shops, close to public transport and beaches | MTR, buses, taxis | Slightly further from Central, fewer nightlife options |
| Kowloon Tong | Suburban, Quiet, Family-friendly | Families, Those seeking a green, peaceful area | Kowloon Tong offers spacious homes, international schools, and a green environment, making it a great place for families. The area is more affordable than Central while still offering a suburban feel. | Kowloon Tong Park, Lion Rock Country Park | Large family homes, apartments in gated communities | The British International School, Hong Kong International School | Parks, shopping malls, reputable international schools, gyms, restaurants | MTR, buses, taxis | Far from Central, limited nightlife and entertainment options |
| Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) | Vibrant, Cosmopolitan, Lively | Shoppers, Culture lovers, Expats working in retail or tourism | TST is a busy district known for its shopping, cultural sites, and dining options. It's a bustling, vibrant area with easy access to transportation, making it a good base for expats working in tourism or retail. | Victoria Harbour, Harbour City Mall, TST Promenade | Apartments, serviced residences, luxury condos | International School of Hong Kong | Shopping malls, dining, entertainment, cultural landmarks (museums, concerts) | MTR, buses, ferries, taxis | Very crowded, noisy, expensive compared to other areas in Kowloon |
| Sai Kung | Coastal, Peaceful, Expansive | Nature lovers, Families, Expats seeking tranquility | Sai Kung is a coastal, more rural area offering a relaxed lifestyle. Known for its seafood markets and outdoor activities, it’s great for families who love nature and want to escape the hustle of the city. | Sai Kung Country Park, beaches, seafood markets | Large detached homes, townhouses, garden apartments | International School of Hong Kong, British International School | Beaches, hiking trails, seafood restaurants, outdoor markets | MTR (via bus), taxis, ferries | Far from central areas, fewer conveniences and public services, limited nightlife |
| Shatin (New Territories) | Suburban, Affordable, Family-friendly | Families, Those seeking more space at a lower cost | Sha Tin offers larger living spaces at more affordable prices compared to central areas. The area has plenty of parks, hiking opportunities, and great international schools, making it ideal for families. | Sha Tin Park, Hong Kong Heritage Museum | Large apartments, family homes, modern developments | American International School, Sha Tin College | Parks, shopping malls (New Town Plaza), sports facilities, cultural spots | MTR, buses | Further from Central, lacks the “city” feel, more residential with fewer restaurants and shops |
Summary:
Hong Kong offers a diverse range of neighborhoods suitable for different expat lifestyles. For those seeking proximity to work and nightlife, Central, Causeway Bay, and Tsim Sha Tsui are ideal. For families or those looking for peace and green spaces, Discovery Bay, Mid-Levels, Kowloon Tong, and Pok Fu Lam are great choices. If you prefer a more relaxed, suburban lifestyle with large homes and outdoor activities, consider Sai Kung, Sha Tin, or Discovery Bay.
Each area has its own charm, so choosing the best one depends on factors like your work location, lifestyle preferences, and family needs. Hong Kong's strong public transportation network makes it easy to explore the city and find a neighborhood that suits your ideal living situation.
https://www.hk-cityguide.com/expat-guide/guide-to-hong-kongs-best-moving-companies
