World’s Highest-Paid Expats in 2025

Where Do the World’s Highest-Paid Expats Live in 2025?

World’s highest-paid expats in 2025: Relocating for work or lifestyle has become increasingly common in today’s global economy. Whether you’re moving across town, country, or halfway around the world, the reasons are often practical, better career opportunities, improved quality of life, or even the comfort of being closer to family (and their free laundry service).

For adventurous professionals, moving abroad offers unique opportunities but comes with challenges. Immigration systems worldwide now provide multiple relocation pathways, including working holiday visas, business visas, and long-term work permits. Still, before packing your bags, it’s essential to research where you’ll truly thrive.

Key Factors Expats Consider Before Moving

When deciding on a new home country or city, expats often weigh factors such as:

• Cost of living

• Climate

• Job opportunities

• Real estate value

• Culture & lifestyle

• Education system

• Healthcare quality

• Natural disaster risks

Above all, one factor plays a considerable role: income potential. Without a competitive salary, it isn’t easy to enjoy life abroad fully.

2025’s Top Cities for Expat Salaries

HSBC Expat’s latest survey, covering over 25,000 expats worldwide, ranks the cities where foreign professionals earn the highest incomes. All the following locations offer average salaries above the global expat income average in 2025:

1. Istanbul, Turkey – $100,577

2. Brussels, Belgium – $102,482

3. Vienna, Austria – $103,342

4. Auckland, New Zealand – $107,500

5. London, UK – $107,863

6. São Paulo, Brazil – $113,516

7. Muscat, Oman – $113,733

8. Oslo, Norway – $114,538

9. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – $116,679

10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – $117,515

11. Singapore – $118,515

12. Nairobi, Kenya – $119,182

13. Bangkok, Thailand – $119,601

14. Kuwait City, Kuwait – $123,041

15. Abu Dhabi, UAE – $127,456

16. Doha, Qatar – $131,408

17. Tokyo, Japan – $132,508

18. Sydney, Australia – $134,368

19. Moscow, Russia – $135,909

20. Dubai, UAE – $138,177

21. Paris, France – $139,602

22. Hong Kong, China – $148,410

23. Jakarta, Indonesia – $152,589

24. Los Angeles, USA – $161,126

25. New York, USA – $182,240

26. Geneva, Switzerland – $184,942

27. Shanghai, China – $202,211

28. Zurich, Switzerland – $206,875

29. San Francisco, USA – $207,227

30. Mumbai, India – $217,165

The Global Winner in 2025

While cities in Switzerland, the USA, and Australia dominate the list, Mumbai, India, has claimed the top spot for 2025 with an impressive average expat salary of $217,165, making it the most lucrative location for foreign professionals this year.

Suppose you’re planning your next career move abroad. These cities offer high salaries, vibrant cultures, strong job markets, and exciting lifestyles, making them ideal destinations for ambitious expats.

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