Living Cost Intelligence
Cost of living by city
Dubai
Tax-free salaries, high rents in central districts, and school fees that dominate family budgets.
Abu Dhabi
Slightly calmer and cheaper than Dubai, with a strong government and energy employment base.
Riyadh
Fast-growing capital with tax-free pay and lower rents than the UAE, though car costs are unavoidable.
Berlin
Tight rental market, affordable public transport, and progressive tax deductions on gross pay.
Munich
Germany's highest professional salaries and its highest housing rents.
Amsterdam
High rents and progressive Box 1 taxes, partially offset for qualifying expats by the 30% ruling.
London
High compensation, among the highest rents in Western Europe, and significant commuter costs.
Manchester
A lower-cost UK alternative with an active technology, creative, and financial services market.
Last updated 2026-09-15. Figures are approximate estimates for planning, not tax or financial advice. Family budgets include international schooling where standard for expatriates. Methodology.