Zurich Crowned World's Most Expensive City, Overtaking New York and London

• Zurich, Switzerland, tops Numbeo's Cost of Living Index 2026 as the world's most expensive city when rent is excluded.
• The city ranks second globally even with housing costs factored in, just behind New York.
• Zurich's high costs are driven by groceries (index 115.4) and restaurant prices (index 121), with an overall cost of living index score of 118.5.
• Compared to Indian cities like Gurgaon, Zurich is over 400% more expensive excluding rent, and nearly 680% higher including rent.
• Despite high costs, Zurich attracts professionals and tourists due to its status as a global financial hub, political stability, high salaries, excellent infrastructure, and high quality of life.

Why It Matters: Zurich is now the world's most expensive city, offering a high quality of life despite its steep costs.