Best Areas to Stay in Hong Kong for Students & Expats
Where to Live as an Expat or Student in Hong Kong?
Finding the perfect place to live in Hong Kong can feel overwhelming, especially for expats and students new to this vibrant city. As one of the most international and dynamic cities in the world, Hong Kong offers abundant opportunities for career growth, academic success, and cultural experiences. However, with sky-high rents, limited space, and a variety of living options, it’s important to choose the right neighborhood.
Whether you’re an expat searching for a community to call home or a student looking for convenience and comfort, this guide will walk you through some of the top Hong Kong expat neighborhoods and student-friendly areas. We’ll cover everything from unique community vibes to transport links, helping you discover where to live as an expat or student in Hong Kong.
Best Hong Kong Neighborhoods for Students
1. Sai Ying Pun: A Tranquil Gem on Hong Kong Island
If you’re looking for peace and quiet without being far from the action, Sai Ying Pun is a fantastic choice. Nestled on the western side of Hong Kong Island, this neighborhood is particularly popular among students at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). Sai Ying Pun offers a laid-back, residential vibe with trendy cafes, local restaurants, and green spaces. It’s the perfect spot for focused study sessions and peaceful living, with a beautiful waterfront promenade for relaxation and exercise.
Why Sai Ying Pun is Great for Students:
- Close to Universities: HKU is just around the corner.
- Excellent Transport Links: With Sai Ying Pun MTR Station on the Island Line, you can get to Central and other key areas quickly. The neighborhood also has great bus and tram services.
Student Housing Recommendation: Weave Studios – Sai Ying Pun
- Distance: Only one MTR stop from HKU, about a 10-minute ride.
- Housing:
- Co-Living Spaces: Modern facilities like 24-hour gyms, shared kitchens, and lounges.
- Private Studio Room : Ideal for students who value personal space.
Explore Accommodation in Sai Ying Pun
2. Sheung Wan: Where Tradition Meets Trendiness
Sheung Wan is one of Hong Kong’s most vibrant expat areas, offering a mix of tradition and modernity. For students, it’s a lively district full of local eateries, stylish coffee shops, and cultural landmarks. With landmarks like Western Market and Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park, Sheung Wan is a perfect blend of convenience and character. Its excellent amenities—such as supermarkets, gyms, and dining options—make it one of the best areas to live in Hong Kong for students seeking a more dynamic lifestyle.
Why Sheung Wan is Great for Students:
- Close to Universities: Near HKU and Shue Yan University.
- Convenient Transport: Sheung Wan MTR Station connects seamlessly to major areas like Admiralty and Causeway Bay. The district is also well-served by buses and minibuses.
Student Housing Recommendation: Weave Suites – Central West
- Distance:
- 10–15 minutes to HKU by MTR or bus.
- Around 20 minutes to Shue Yan University.
- Housing:
- Co-living: Perfect for connecting with other students and young professionals.
- Private room: Ideal for those who prefer a quiet, personal space.
Explore Accommodation in Central West
3. Hung Hom, Mong Kok, and Prince Edward: Vibrant Hubs for Young Students
For students who want to immerse themselves in the excitement of Hong Kong, these bustling neighborhoods in Kowloon are unbeatable. Hung Hom is conveniently located near major universities, while Mong Kok and Prince Edward offer an energetic urban vibe with street markets, shopping malls, and cultural landmarks. These neighborhoods are also transportation hubs, making them ideal for exploring other parts of the city.
Why These Neighborhoods are Perfect for Students:
- Close to Universities: Near PolyU, HKMU, CityU, and HKBU.
- Great Transport Links: MTR stations like Hung Hom and Mong Kok connect you to key destinations, while buses and minibuses make getting around a breeze.
Student Housing Recommendations: Weave Studios – Hung Hom
- Distance:
- 8 minutes to PolyU and 15 minutes to HKMU by bus.
- Housing:
- Co-living: provides shared facilities such as 24-hour fitness space, kitchen and leisure area.
- Private room: designed for women or men with enough private space.
Explore Accommodation in Hung Hom
Student Housing Recommendations: Weave Studios – Prince Edward
- Distance: 15 minutes to CityU and HKBU via the Kwun Tong MTR line.
- Housing:
- Co-living: Shared facilities such as 24-hour fitness space, kitchen and lounge area are provided.
- Private room: Designed for women or men and enough private space.
- Shared room: There are two-person units, suitable for living with roommates or couples.
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Student Housing Recommendations: Weave Studios – Kowloon West
- Distance: 30 minutes to CityU and HKBU via the Kwun Tong MTR line.
- Housing:
- Co-living: Shared facilities such as 24-hour fitness space, kitchen and lounge area are provided.
- Private room: Designed for women or men with enough private space.
- Shared room: There are two-person units, suitable for living with roommates or couples.
Best Expat Areas in Hong Kong
1. Central: The Heart of Hong Kong’s International Scene
Looking for the best area to live in Hong Kong for expats? Central is the ultimate expat neighborhood. As the city’s financial and business hub, Central is home to global companies, luxury apartments, and a fast-paced urban lifestyle. Expats will love the international vibe, with Soho’s trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes offering a taste of home.
Why Central is Great for Expats:
- Iconic Landmarks: IFC, Soho, and the headquarters of major global banks.
- Unmatched Transport: The MTR connects you to key lines, including the Airport Express, while trams and buses cover the entire city.
Expat Housing Recommendation: Weave Residences – Mid-Levels
- Distance: Just 15 minutes from Central by minibus or 10 minutes by car.
- Housing Options:
- Hotel-style service : Fully furnished with cleaning services, perfect for short-term stays.
- Luxury Apartments: For those seeking a premium lifestyle.
Explore Accommodation in Mid-Levels
2. Kai Tak: Modern Living in a New Urban Hub
Kai Tak, a redeveloped area in Kowloon East, is one of the most exciting new expat areas in Hong Kong. Once the site of Hong Kong’s old airport, it has been transformed into a modern residential and commercial neighborhood. With spacious green spaces, high-rise apartments, and excellent amenities, Kai Tak is perfect for expats seeking a blend of comfort and convenience.
Why Kai Tak is Great for Expats:
- Landmarks: Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Kai Tak Runway Park, and the Airside Mall.
- Convenient Transport: Kai Tak MTR Station (Tuen Ma Line) connects you to Kowloon, Sha Tin, and New Territories West. Nearby bus and minibus routes make commuting simple.
Expat Housing Recommendation: Weave Studios – Kai Tak
- Distance: A 10-minute walk to Sung Wong Toi or To Kwa Wan stations; just 15 minutes to Kai Tak MTR Station.
- Housing Options:
- Co-living: with shared kitchens, living rooms and common spaces, suitable for residents who like to socialize and build a sense of community.
- Hotel-style services: equipped with furniture and cleaning services, suitable for short-term expatriates.
- Single or double rooms: provide private living space, suitable for single professionals or couples.
Final Thoughts
Hong Kong is a city like no other, offering a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit every lifestyle. For expats, Central and Sheung Wan provide an international vibe, while Kai Tak introduces a modern, quieter alternative. For students, Sai Ying Pun’s tranquil charm, Sheung Wan’s vibrant energy, and Kowloon’s buzzing hubs offer plenty of options.
Whether you’re looking for an expat-friendly community or a student-focused neighborhood, choosing the right area will help you adapt to Hong Kong’s fast-paced lifestyle and make the most of your time here.
Ready to find your ideal home? Explore these neighborhoods and start your new chapter in one of the most exciting cities in the world!