Rich culture, one of the world’s leading economies, and a very impressive skyline, Hong Kong is the most expensive real estate market in Asia, and it might be competing with the top real estate markets in the world if Chinese economy continue to grow at this speed. The island’s north side is the first place that comes to mind when looking for apartments in Hong Kong. It is certainly the most well known area with its famous skyline of buildings bearing the names of the world’s largest companies. Still today, between these architectural gems and business power centers, run old trams and until recently, even rickshaw drivers… throwbacks to a bygone era.

If your company has itself a sought after address on the north side of the Island, then the first place to look for an apartment in Hong Kong is among the many buildings on offer here. If you’re traveling solo, or as a couple without kids, then a rental apartment in the area bounded by Sheung Wan, Causeway Bay and the Mid-Levels is a great place as you’ll have maximum convenience with public transport, work and nightlife all within easy reach.

To keep the budget under tighter control you could look at rental apartments further out from Central, to the west around Kennedy Town or east towards Chai Wan. Renting a Kennedy Town apartment will keep you within a short taxi or bus ride of Central, whereas a Chai Wan apartment is convenient to the eastern most stop on the MTR line. Both are still convenient, just with less Expatriates around- keep in mind that not all Hong Kong grocery stores are created equal.

As a couple with children, you’ll probably tend more toward apartment rentals in Mid-Levels and Happy Valley, depending on your size requirements and preferences. All still on the north side of Hong Kong island, only a little more Expat and family oriented. Keep in mind though that some of the apartments in these areas will not have balconies, car parking or outdoor areas. You may have a gym included in the apartment building. Pets may or may not be allowed depending on the property owner or building regulations, and you’ll find the only places to exercise a larger dog being the walking trails up to the Peak.