Bangkok has entered the world's top 10 most expensive cities for luxury living for the first time, according to the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2026 published by Swiss private bank Julius Baer. The Thai capital climbed from 11th place in 2025 to 10th this year, marking its first appearance in the top 10 since the index was introduced in 2020.
A Regional Wealth Hub
The ranking is based on the prices of 20 categories of premium goods and services across 25 cities worldwide, reflecting the cost of maintaining a high-end lifestyle for high-net-worth individuals. Julius Baer said the Asia-Pacific region remains a global wealth hub, with five cities landing in the top 10: Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney and Bangkok. The bank attributed Bangkok's rise to growth in the luxury goods market and increased spending among affluent consumers across the region.
Singapore Holds the Top Spot
Singapore retained its position as the world's most expensive city for luxury living for a fourth consecutive year, driven by high property and vehicle costs and the strength of the Singapore dollar. Zurich climbed to second place, while Monaco entered the top three for the first time; Hong Kong and London rounded out the top five. Globally, the cost of luxury living rose by an average of 10.2% in US dollar terms in 2026, driven by stronger currencies and higher material prices, particularly gold, which pushed up the cost of items such as jewellery and watches.
