An Expat Guide on Living Comfortably with Pets in Hong Kong Apartments
Living with a pet in Hong Kong is one of life's simple pleasures, but finding the right pet-friendly apartment in Hong Kong takes more planning than most people expect. From monthly costs and vet bills to navigating building policies and tracking down genuine pet-friendly rentals, there is plenty to consider before you and your pet settle in. This guide covers the real costs of pet ownership in Hong Kong and recommends some of the best pet-friendly apartments available, so both you and your pet can live comfortably.
What Pets Can You Keep in Hong Kong?
The most common legally permitted pets in Hong Kong include cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, and certain turtle species. Some more exotic animals such as specific lizards and parrots require a special permit issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), keeping a pet is entirely lawful provided owners take proper care of their animals and avoid any form of neglect or mistreatment.
According to the Hong Kong Government's 2025 Policy Address, approximately 240,000 households in Hong Kong keep pets, with an estimated total of over 400,000 cats and dogs across the city. Pet ownership has continued to rise since the pandemic, and pets have become a central part of many Hong Kong families.
Monthly Pet Ownership Costs at a Glance
Many people planning to get a pet focus almost entirely on food costs, overlooking additional expenses including veterinary care, grooming, toys, and insurance. According to a 2024 survey by OneDegree, the total lifetime cost of owning a pet over 14 years can reach approximately HK$680,000. More than most people expect.
How Much Does It Cost to Keep a Dog?
Actual costs vary by breed, size, age, and health condition. Toys, daily supplies, boarding, and training add to this over time.
How Much Does It Cost to Keep a Cat?
Before getting a pet, mapping out both regular and unexpected expenses ensures you are prepared to provide responsible, long-term care.
How to Find Affordable Pet-Friendly Apartments in Hong Kong
Finding affordable pet-friendly apartments in Hong Kong requires knowing where to look. Public housing estates have banned dogs since 2003, and private buildings are each governed by their own deed of mutual covenant and management rules. The three most practical options for pet owners are village houses, private residential buildings, and pet-friendly serviced apartments.
1. New Territories Village Houses
Village houses in the New Territories remain one of the most popular choices for pet-friendly rentals in Hong Kong. Larger floor areas, fewer storeys, and more relaxed neighbourhood attitudes make them well-suited to life with pets. Many units offer terraces, rooftop access, or proximity to country park trails, giving pets more room to move freely. Areas with a strong supply of village house rentals include Sai Kung, Yuen Long, Tuen Mun, Tai Po, and the Outlying Islands.
2. Private Residential Buildings
More new private residential developments are now marketing themselves as family and pet-friendly. Newer estates in areas such as Pak Shek Kok, Tseung Kwan O, Kai Tak, and Sai Sha offer more modern facilities compared to older village houses. Always review the deed of mutual covenant or confirm the building's pet policy and any breed restrictions directly with the management office before committing.
3. Pet-Friendly Serviced Apartments
For expats seeking pet-friendly serviced apartments in the urban core or on Hong Kong Island, options are limited but available. Weave Living's Weave Residences series offers low-density, pet-friendly serviced apartments in the Mid-Levels, making it one of the few genuinely viable options for urban pet owners who do not want to compromise on location or convenience.
Pet-Friendly Rental Recommendation: Weave Residences – Robinson
Located on Robinson Road in the Mid-Levels, this property offers two-bedroom units of approximately 706 square feet with private terraces or rooftop access. Monthly rent starts from approximately HK$45,000. Units are fully equipped with washer-dryers, built-in ovens, and wine fridges, making it a strong choice for pet owners who value quality living.
Pet-Friendly Rental Recommendation: Weave Residences – Mid-Levels
Located at 8 Hospital Road in the Mid-Levels, this property offers one-bedroom and Urban Residence units of approximately 307 square feet. Monthly rent starts from approximately HK$25,000. All-inclusive pricing covers kitchen appliances, a washer-dryer, and gym access, making it one of the more affordable pet-friendly apartment options in a central Hong Kong location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Pet-Friendly Rental in Hong Kong Typically Cost?
Pet-friendly apartments in Hong Kong vary considerably by area and property type. Urban pet-friendly residential units generally range from HK$15,000 to HK$35,000 per month. Pet-friendly serviced apartments start from around HK$14,000, with mid to large or well-located units ranging from HK$26,500 to HK$45,000 or above. As a general rule, pet-friendly rentals command slightly higher rents than comparable non-pet-friendly units in the same area.
Which Areas in Hong Kong Have the Most Pet-Friendly Rentals?
In the New Territories, Sai Kung, Discovery Bay, Yuen Long, Tai Po, Pak Shek Kok, and Tseung Kwan O are known for a higher proportion of pet-accepting landlords. On Hong Kong Island, Stanley, the Mid-Levels, and Central and Sheung Wan are relatively more accommodating. In Kowloon, Kai Tak and West Kowloon also offer a notable number of pet-friendly rental options.
Can You Keep Pets in a Serviced Apartment in Hong Kong?
Not all pet-friendly serviced apartments in Hong Kong are created equal. Some operators explicitly prohibit animals, while newer brands such as Weave Living have relaxed their policies to welcome cats and dogs. Always confirm the pet policy in writing before booking, including permitted animal types and the maximum number allowed, to avoid any breach of your tenancy agreement.
How Many Pets Are Allowed in a Serviced Apartment?
Policies vary between properties. At Weave Residences, pet-friendly serviced apartment units currently accommodate one cat or dog weighing no more than 15 kilograms per unit. Any special circumstances require prior approval from Weave's management team before bringing a pet into the property.
Are There Fewer Pet-Friendly Rentals for Dog Owners Than Cat Owners?
Yes, generally speaking. Dogs, particularly medium to large breeds, have a greater impact on shared spaces and noise levels, making some landlords more reluctant to accept them. Cats are more widely accepted across both private and managed properties, giving cat owners a broader range of pet-friendly rental choices.