What High-Cost Hubs Mean for Founders Building Abroad

For globally mobile entrepreneurs, cost of living isn’t just personal—it’s strategic. If you’re planning to relocate, launch, or scale your company abroad, understanding the world’s most expensive cities can shape how you manage burn rate, hiring, and quality of life.

According to ECA International’s 2020 Cost of Living Index, here are the top cities where everyday living comes with a high price tag.

What Drives the Cost?

ECA’s rankings are based on a basket of expat-relevant expenses:

• Housing (rent, furnishings) 
• Transportation (public and private) 
• Food and groceries 
• Utilities and household goods 
• Personal care and services 

In cities like Zurich, Geneva, or New York, costs are driven by strong currencies, housing shortages, and high import dependence.

Why This Matters for Founders

For expatpreneurs, location strategy is financial strategy.

Relocating to a top-tier cost-of-living city? Use this insight to:

• Negotiate smarter relocation or compensation packages 
• Recalibrate team salaries, housing stipends, or operational budgets 
• Evaluate burn rate in early-stage planning or expansion rounds 

High-cost hubs can offer premium markets and talent—but only if planned well.

Where Club GLOBALS Comes In

We help international founders navigate the true cost of global growth—from local budgeting tips to relocation-friendly cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, or Berlin.

Ready to grow smarter across borders?

• Get access to market insights, global salary benchmarks, and founder-friendly cities 
• Join pitch nights, investor salons, and private founder communities 
• Download cost-of-living data for strategic planning 

Register with Club GLOBALS to unlock tools, templates, and trusted partners worldwide.

Source: eca international and Business Insider UK