The high cost of living in Hong Kong has become a daunting reality for many, and it's not just the average citizen feeling the pinch. Even a former beauty queen, Strawberry Yeung, has revealed that the city's expenses are so overwhelming that she's hesitant to take the leap into marriage and starting a family.
In a recent video, the 61-year-old Yeung, who was the second runner-up in the Miss Asia 1990 pageant, detailed the everyday costs of living in Hong Kong. From breakfast to dinner, she estimated that daily expenses could easily add up to HK$40-50, HK$80, HK$20-30, and over HK$100 respectively. On top of that, monthly transportation costs range from HK$600 to HK$700, and annual living expenses for a single person can amount to a staggering HK$400,000.
But here's where it gets controversial: Yeung argues that housing is an even greater challenge. Renting a typical studio apartment can cost anywhere from HK$15,000 to HK$20,000 per month, and in densely populated areas, living spaces are so cramped that bathrooms barely offer enough room to turn around. Larger homes, of course, come with even higher price tags.
She stressed that an annual income of HK$1.6 million is barely enough to get by. To put this into perspective, a restaurant server earns around HK$18,000 a month, while a manager might make slightly more at HK$20,000.
"Incomes are not actually very high, but expenses are extremely high," she said. "On average, even with careful budgeting, a single person still needs at least HK$400,000 a year. That’s why I truly don’t dare to get married, let alone have children."
Yeung's comments have sparked a heated debate on social media. Some users argue that spending levels vary by household and suggest she consider more affordable areas. However, the reality is that Hong Kong's housing market is notoriously competitive, and finding a reasonably priced home is no easy feat.
And this is the part most people miss: Yeung's story is a stark reminder of the financial pressures faced by many in Hong Kong. Despite her success and fame, she, like many others, is grappling with the city's high cost of living. It's a complex issue that highlights the challenges of balancing career, personal life, and financial stability in one of the world's most expensive cities.
What do you think? Is Hong Kong's high cost of living a deal-breaker for potential homeowners and families? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
