If you think New York is the most expensive city in the world, think again.  It is currently not even in the top 10.  The top 3 honors go to Oslo, Paris and Copenhagen and the rest are still European cities with the exception of Tokyo and Osaka, which currently hold the 5th and 6th spots, respectively.  (Source)

If you’ve been dreaming of living in any of these cities but can only afford to do so cheaply, there are ways to do it.

Cheap rent
No, you can’t get very far with a few hundred dollars a month.  In the most expensive cities in the world, that’ll get you a small bedroom with a bath and a small kitchen that the landlord passes up for a whole apartment in a bad part of town.  Rent will cost you.

In Germany, for example, costs related to housing equal about 30% of net income.  If you don’t want to pay too much, don’t live in Frankfurt or Hamburg.  Go to Berlin instead, where rent can be as low as 4euros per square meter.  And while you’re there, live in the smallest apartment or split the rent with a roommate or two.

Food
Go for the cheaper restaurants, naturally.  Big cities have an extensive choice of cuisine and there will always be a cheap place somewhere that serves great food.

Transportation
Don’t get a car.  You’ll be broke by the end of the week thanks to high gas prices.  Take the public transportation instead.  They’re cheaper, they’re fast and if you’re in one of the most expensive cities in the world, they should be efficient.

Entertainment
Don’t spend for something you can’t afford.  The most expensive cities in the world offer some of the best museums, theaters, park concerts and street plays, all for free. 

All it takes is to do your homework and stick to your budget. But still, it would be less stressing if you just go somewhere where commodities do not cost like gold. Be practical!

[image from City Guide Europe]