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10 most expensive cities in the world

$8 for a cup of coffee in Moscow. $200 for a pair of jeans in Luanda. These cities charge top dollar for the most basic purchases, according to Mercer's survey of 214 cities.

Geneva, Switzerland

most expensive places expats geneva
  • Monthly rent (luxury apt.): $4,350
  • International newspaper: $4.35
  • Cup of coffee: $6.52
  • Gas (per liter): $2.02

One of three Swiss cities to make Mercer's list, Geneva offers many luxurious, well-crafted goods, as well as many everyday ones -- almost all of which will cost Americans handsomely.

Part of the reason is an unfavorable exchange rate. The Swiss franc is more robust than the U.S. dollar. Tickets to the movies will cost an average of $18.50 apiece and a hamburger meal at a fast food joint will put you back about $12.50, according to Mercer.

Source: Mercer Cost of Living Survey 2013, conducted in 214 cities to help international companies assess the costs of relocating employees abroad. It looks at the cost in U.S. dollars of over 200 everyday items, such as monthly rent for a luxury, 2-bedroom unfurnished apartment, a movie ticket for an international release, a fast-food hamburger meal, and more. All cities are compared to New York City and currency movements are based against the U.S. dollar.
Monthly rent based on luxury, two bedroom apartments (with the exception of N'Djamena, Chad)
  @ANJ0817 - Last updated July 24 2013 08:11 AM ET

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