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.

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The ranking measures the cost of maintaining a high-end lifestyle for high-net-worth individuals. It is based on the prices of 20 categories of premium goods and services across 25 cities worldwide.

Julius Baer said the Asia-Pacific region continues to be a major global wealth hub, with five cities featuring in the top 10 rankings. Alongside Bangkok, the regional cities are Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Sydney.

Singapore retained its position as the world’s most expensive city for luxury living for a fourth consecutive year. The report said high property and vehicle costs, combined with the strength of the Singapore dollar, helped keep it at the top of the index.

Zurich rose to second place, while Monaco entered the top three for the first time. Hong Kong ranked fourth and London placed fifth in the latest global standings.

Bangkok’s rise reflects continued growth in the luxury goods market and spending by affluent consumers across the region. The report highlights increasing demand for premium products and services as wealth continues to expand in parts of Asia-Pacific.

The report also found that the global cost of luxury living increased by an average of 10.2 percent in US dollar terms during 2026. Julius Baer said stronger currencies in several countries and higher material prices, particularly gold, were among the main factors driving higher prices for luxury goods such as jewellery and watches.

The latest rankings provide a snapshot of how costs are changing for wealthy consumers around the world. They are also closely watched by financial institutions and businesses involved in luxury markets as an indicator of spending trends and regional wealth patterns.

Khaosod reported that future editions of the Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report will show whether Bangkok remains among the world’s 10 most expensive cities for luxury living as economic conditions, currency movements and consumer demand continue to evolve.

TOP 10 CITIES FOR LUXURY LIVING COSTS IN 2026

1. Singapore

2. Zurich, Switzerland

3. Monaco

4. Hong Kong

5. London, United Kingdom

6. Shanghai, China

7. Paris, France

8. Sydney, Australia

9. Milan, Italy

10. Bangkok, Thailand

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9 July 2026

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Bangkok: where a $2 street meal and a $2,000 hotel suite are on the same street.

Good to know I’m living in a luxury city on an economy budget. 😄

Tell that to the guy I walked past sleeping rough yesterday, who was but 50m from a crazy lady waving her arms and yelling! Just 120km away in Pattaya!