I know what you're pointing out, but in Italy, a FO will make 1800-2500EUR/ month...imagine living in a nice place with this kind of money. While in HKG, out of 80.000HKD - roughly, you may spend 25.000 for a nice serviced apartment in Lantau for e.g.
well, maybe PICs in Lufthansa, making 250.000 Eur/year can afford a 5000 eur/month rent...
Cost of living in Asia is high? A coffee in LHR is 4pounds...a pint is 6...a decent meal in a Pub is 15-20pounds... and the income is still LOW...
so you make more money, you spend more...
I know you get my point and my "anger", so to speak...