A list of the top 30 most expensive cities worldwide for expat living has lately been released by ECA International, the world's leading provider of knowledge, information and technology for the management and assignment of employees around the world.

The top places are dominated by Switzerland's cities, with Zurich ranking first. In China, Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong also make the top 10.

The survey compared similar costs of consumer goods and services commonly purchased by expat staff in over 450 cities worldwide. Certain living costs, such as accommodation, utilities, car purchases and school fees are not included.

With the experience of more than 40 years in cost of living research, ECA International carries out surveys to help companies calculate cost of living allowances for their employees on international assignment.

The following are the top 10 expensive cities for international assignees.

 
  Seoul, South Korea   

Seoul, South Korea [China.org.cn]

Global Rank 2014: 8