Hong Kong is separated into three main areas, which then all have their own residential areas.
19 March 2014
| Last updated on 24 September 2017
Hong Kong is separated into three main areas, which then have their own residential areas. The areas differ in apartment sizes, price and the levels of space and the availablitiy of transport. The main area in Hong Kong is Hong Kong Island, this is also the priciest area of the three as it contains some prime real estate, namely in the Peak area and Happy Valley. Kowloon Island is an up and coming area, especially since the airport was moved. While it is more affordable than Hong Kong Island, the prices are on the rise in a few areas, especially Olympic and West Kowloon. People who choose to live in the New Territories, generally do so for the space. The public transport might not be as efficient, however the space and greenery more than makes up for it.
The Peak
This is by far the most affluent residential area in Hong Kong. It has great views and is close to the ever popular peak tram. Many housing compounds offer a range of facilities including swimming pools, gyms and tennis courts. The peak is a popular residential area among expats and locals.
Wan Chai
Wan Chai has a little bit of everything. It is a business district where many people find themselves between the hours of 8am and 5pm working away. It is also a very trendy residential area that offers expats anything from cheap and small accommodation, to luxury serviced apartments. There is a great outdoor food market, accessible transportation and a selection of restaurants, shops and great nightlife and entertainment areas.
Repulse Bay
This exclusive area is the envy of many Hong Kong residents. It is situated along gorgeous beaches and is great for expat families who want to get out of the noisy city. There is not public transport to repulse Bay, however the city is only 30 minutes away. The area has great facilities including international schools, medical facilities and shopping areas.
Stanley
Situated on the South Side of Hong Kong Stanley is a very popular expat area. There are many western style shops and restaurants and the beach is close by. The residents here will also require a car to get around as there is no public transport and the streets get crowded during tourist season.
The Mid-Levels
This area is very popular among you expat singles and couples. It is close to the city centre and is in close proximity to the very exclusive Peak Area, it is also a stone’s throw from Soho and other great party areas, where young expats go to blow off some steam. The Mid-Levels is also a great area for families due to its close proximity to popular expat schools. There is a lot to do that is within walking distance of The Mid Levels, such as a visit to the Botanical Gardens or access to the Mid-Levels escalator.
The North Point
This is a great area for expats looking for more affordable accommodation. This area is further away from the city centre and any big shopping malls or entertainment areas. However, it does have great markets, supermarkets and restaurants.
Jardine’s Lookout
This is probably the most exclusive area in Hong Kong City as it provides the space that is lacking in most other areas. Not only are the houses and apartments large and luxurious, the area has its own amenities including shops, boutiques and a post office, which makes it very popular with expats as it caters to their needs.
West Kowloon
West Kowloon has rebranded itself as the cultural district with an emphasis on the arts. This area consists of high rise buildings with excellent facilities. The public transport is accessible and there are restaurants and shops within a walking distance, making this a popular area for expats. Rents are also cheaper here than in Hong Kong city making it a more enticing area for expats.
Kowloon Tong
This is a popular area for expats looking for more spacious apartments, whilst being close to the city centre. Kowloon Tong is close to the MTR, Festival Walk and major facilities, as well as a handful of international schools, which makes it a very popula expat residential area.
Sai Kung
Sai Kung is still considered to be a small fishing village; life is simpler here with walkways by the water lined with seafood restaurants and views of the water, mountains and the fishermen who mill around selling their wares. Sai Kung is primarily served by bus and public light buses. There is no MTR link to Sai Kung. Ferry services are available to the neighbouring islands and isolated coastal villages in the Sai Kung Hoi, as well as to the public golf course on one of the nearby islands. There are two international schools in Sai Kung, which is why it is a popular area for expats, despite the distance and lack of transport to Hong Kong centre.
Lantau Island
Originally the site of fishing villages, the island has been developed in recent years with the construction of Tung Chung New Town on its north-western coast and the completion of several major infrastructure projects, including Lantau Link (1997), Hong Kong International Airport (1998), Hong Kong Disneyland (2005) and Ngong Ping 360 (2006). Lantau is also growing in popularity as an expat residential area. Discovery Bay is a resort like residential area on Lantau that was built to replicate surburbia. Furthermore the mountainous area of Lantau is a pull for those who enjoy the outdoors.
