For a cost of index living survey, have a look at the
2004 Cost of Living Survey
Singapore rates #46 (down from #32 in 2003) whilst Sydney has jumped to #20 (from #67 in 2003).
To plagiarise the comments from the website:
The index is based on cost of living expressed in US dollars. Therefore, if the dollar weakens against the local currency of a city, the city becomes more expensive and moves up the index, even if prices expressed in local currency remain the same or even go down
As en explanantion for the rapid rise, they give the following:
Cities in Australia and New Zealand have risen most in the rankings this year due to the significant appreciation of local currencies against the US dollar. Sydney is the most expensive city in the region, increasing from 67th place in 2003 to 20th position, with a score of 91.8. Other high-scoring cities in Australia include Melbourne in 67th position (77.5) and Brisbane in 87th place (72.7). Auckland is the costliest city in New Zealand, ranked 80 with a score of 74.2. Though they have increased in the rankings this year, these cities continue to rate among the highest for high quality of life. “Living costs in Australia and New Zealand have risen faster than anywhere else globally, mainly due to the strength of the currencies in these countries,” said Mrs Sepede.
Note that cost of living & qualityof lifestyle are 2 separate & distinct issues.
As for Quality of Lifestyle, have a look at the
Mercer Worldwide Quality of Life Survey
Sydney scores 105.5 and comes in very close to the top, in 4th place. Singapore scores 101, and comes in as 35th.
More detailed explanations can be found on the page linked above.
Enjoy!
