Yes, HK is my home, but it doesn't mean I have not lived elsewhere - Australia, UK and France. I know what it's like living in other countries, and I do miss the niceties of living outside a city. BTW, no Canto for me!
So I think I have a fair appreciation for the "costs" of being an expat here - I can I shop in similar shops to many expats, buy similar products to many expats and live in a similar location to many expats, because I see them every day and work with them. Whilst I don't consider myself an expat, I know plenty who do.
In any case, I'm not trying to put myself in your shoes. I'm only trying to bring some perspective and comparisons to the table. I for one don't understand how anyone can survive in Sydney, for example, with the crazy tax rates and similar cost of living as HK. But people do and many wouldn't think twice about moving there.
I'm trying to be reasonable - cost of living in HK is high, but people who come on here and say your entire $45k salary will be spent on rent, or that $45k is not a living wage aren't really giving the whole picture.