Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey provides an intriguing look at how the cost of common items — such as a cup of coffee or a cinema ticket — varies dramatically in cities around the world. The survey measures the comparative cost of more than 200 items, including housing, transportation, food, clothing, household goods, and entertainment.
Mercer’s survey, one of the world’s most comprehensive, helps multinational companies and governments determine compensation allowances for their expatriate employees. Mercer also uses the survey to compile the annual Cost of Living Rankings, covering 214 cities.
“Recent world events, including economic and political upheavals, which resulted in currency fluctuations, cost inflation for goods and services, and volatility in accommodation prices have impacted these cities making them expensive,” said Barb Marder, Senior Partner and Mercer’s Global Mobility Practice Leader.
“Organizations need to evaluate the impact of currency fluctuations, inflation, and political instability when sending employees on overseas assignments while ensuring they can facilitate the moves they need to drive the business results by offering fair and competitive compensation packages.”
Infographic by Mercer Insights
