Top 10 cities with the highest cost of living right now, revealed

If you’ve felt that travelling is becoming costlier with each passing year, the latest figures confirm it. Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index 2026 has just been released, offering fresh insight into the world’s most expensive cities by analysing everyday expenses such as groceries, restaurant meals, local transport, utilities and purchasing power. To make the data more practical, the index presents two rankings — one including rent and another excluding housing costs — giving a clearer picture of daily expenses beyond accommodation.

So which cities are stretching travel budgets the most right now? The rent-excluded list, especially useful for travellers, short-term visitors and digital nomads, reveals where everyday costs pinch the hardest. Unsurprisingly, Europe dominates the top of the chart this year — with Switzerland firmly leading the way.

1. Zurich, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 118.5
Topping the global list, Zurich has emerged as the world’s most expensive city for everyday expenses. From groceries and dining to transport and services, costs in Switzerland’s financial capital remain among the highest worldwide — balanced only by high incomes and an exceptional quality of life.

2. Geneva, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 116.5
A global hub for diplomacy and international organisations, Geneva’s premium lifestyle comes at a steep price. Dining out, basic shopping and services all rank well above global averages.

3. Basel, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 112.4
Known for its pharmaceutical industry and thriving arts scene, Basel combines cultural richness with high living costs, particularly when it comes to food and daily services.

4. Lausanne, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 111.5
Set along the shores of Lake Geneva, Lausanne’s scenic charm and strong academic presence make it desirable — and expensive — for residents and visitors alike.

5. Lugano, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 110.1
Located near the Italian border, Lugano blends Mediterranean flair with Swiss prices. Its resort-like atmosphere and financial sector contribute to elevated everyday costs.

6. Bern, Switzerland
Cost of living index: 110
Switzerland’s capital city may be quieter than Zurich or Geneva, but it remains firmly among the world’s most expensive cities thanks to consistently high prices for essentials and services.

7. New York City, United States
Cost of living index: 100
The only city outside Europe to break into the top tier, New York remains a benchmark for global living costs. While rent pushes it even higher, daily expenses alone are enough to keep it in the top 10.

8. Reykjavik, Iceland
Cost of living index: 98.9
Remote geography and heavy reliance on imports make Reykjavik one of the most expensive cities in the Nordic region, with food and dining costs particularly steep.

9. Honolulu, United States
Cost of living index: 98.2
Island living comes at a premium. From groceries to fuel, Honolulu’s dependence on imported goods keeps everyday costs well above the US average.

10. San Francisco, United States
Cost of living index: 97.6
Driven by its tech economy and high demand, San Francisco continues to rank among the world’s costliest cities, even before housing costs are factored in.