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The 5 Best Expat-Friendly Accommodations in Hong Kong for an Easy Start

  • Location and Neighborhood: We looked into where each property was situated and how convenient it was for daily life. We considered proximity to MTR stations, major business districts, and amenities.
  • Lease Terms: We reviewed the lease options offered by each accommodation. We considered short-term leases, serviced apartments, and negotiable contract terms.
  • Amenities and Shared Facilities: We looked into features such as gyms, swimming pools, lounges, and communal spaces.
  • Expat-Oriented Services: We looked into whether the accommodations offered services tailored to expats. This can include relocation assistance, housekeeping, and support with local registrations.
  • Value for Money: We compared rental costs against what’s offered in terms of space, amenities, and location.

Settling in Hong Kong is a sure mix of emotions. One moment, you’re in awe of the skyline. Next, you’re sweating through flat viewing, wondering how an apartment so small can cost so much (trust us, even us residents cry every time).

Across so many options, finding a place to live can be overwhelming. Sometimes you just need a short-term stay before securing a new apartment; sometimes you just need to hit up a concierge to connect you to the right units.

Because needs and lifestyles vary, we made sure to pick some of HK’s most flexible expat accommodations. See which one is most ideal for your situation based on our expert insights and reviews.

1.  Service Apartment Hong Kong (SA / HK)

service-apartment-hong-kong

Location: 15/F, 41 Connaught Rd Central, Central

Contact: +852 9859 0909

Opening Hours: 

Website

Google5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Location and Neighborhood 5/5
Lease Terms5/5
Amenities and Shared Facilities4/5
Expat-Oriented Services 4/5
Value for Money5/5

We liked that Service Apartment has various locations in key districts. For reference, they have locations in Wan Chai and West Kowloon, as well as other family-oriented districts near international schools.

The flexibility of rentals also mattered to us. They offer short-term and relocation-focused rentals, specifically made for expats.

The large selection of serviced apartments is a major plus. We like that this gives clients flexibility based on budget, location, and lifestyle needs.

Communication is also seamless for expats. Their main channel is their WhatsApp, and replies are always quick and clear. Clients may also contact them via email during evenings and weekends.

As for the booking and leasing process, we have no issues. As we’ve gathered from multiple clients, the system was smooth and stress-free.

They can even arrange an apartment remotely or on short notice from overseas. 

There are just fewer options for unfurnished options, which can be a downside for some clients.

Pros

  • Wide selection of serviced and furnished apartments
  • Strong expertise in relocation-focused rentals
  • Fast communication
  • Can communicate outside standard hours
  • Willing to negotiate pricing and lease
  • Smooth experience for overseas renters

Cons

  • Fewer options for unfurnished leases
  • Unit availability varies from time to time

2.  The Mercer Hong Kong

the-mercer-hong-kong

Location: 29號 Jervois St, Sheung Wan

Contact: +852 2922 9988

Website

Google4.3/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Location and Neighborhood 5/5
Lease Terms3/5
Amenities and Shared Facilities4/5
Expat-Oriented Services 4/5
Value for Money5/5

We find The Mercer a better choice for expats who prefer short- to mid-term stays. They operate as a boutique hotel with serviced apartment features. The premium-level stay really screams in each aspect.

For starters, they’re located within walking distance of Central, Soho, and Sheung Wan MTR station. We love this, as this puts expats into key amenities for work and daily life.

When it comes to room quality, everything met our expectations. Everything is clear, quiet, and relatively spacious by Hong Kong standards.

There were many practical in-room features as well, including work desks, a kitchenette, and appliances. 

We find these features ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families.

A few other touches also make the entire stay seamless. Daily housekeeping is provided, and there is free access to washing machines.

That said, they may not be the best choice for big families or those needing long-term accommodation.

Pros

  • Excellent location near MTR and amenities
  • Quiet and spacious rooms
  • Serviced apartment features
  • Free on-site laundry facilities
  • Daily housekeeping included
  • Good value for space
  • Walkable neighborhood
  • Many practical in-room features

Cons

  • Not ideal for big families and long-term stays
  • Small gym with limited equipment

3. Moetown Hong Kong Serviced Apartments

moetown-hong-kong-serviced-apartments

Location: 11 Ko Shing St, Sheung Wan

Contact: +852 2840 8222

Website

Google5/5
Total reviews3/5
Score consistency5/5
Location and Neighborhood 5/5
Lease Terms4/5
Amenities and Shared Facilities3/5
Expat-Oriented Services 4/5
Value for Money5/5

Moetown is our favorite for a lifestyle-focused apartment. They cater to expats seeking comfort, privacy, and hotel-level services in a residential setting.

We like their location in Sheung Wan. This places residents within close proximity to Hong Kong’s financial district.

On the good side, the place is still pretty quiet, offering a more neighborly feel.

With only 45 guest rooms and suites, Motown maintains this low-density boutique feel. We find this ideal for expats who prefer a bit more privacy in their stays.

On the downside, though, availability can be challenging at times.

The services also make accommodation stays easier. Key offerings include daily housekeeping, scheduled linen changes, and towel replacement coverings.

Security is also a major priority, which reassures us. Long-stay international residents can take advantage of 24-hour security services and in-room safes.

There are fewer shared amenities than in large complexes, so they may not be the best choice for big families.

Pros

  • Prime Sheung Wan location
  • Boutique and private environment
  • Residential-style suites
  • Daily housekeeping provided
  • Strong 24-hour security
  • High-speed internet
  • Bright units with harbor views
  • On-site self-laundry facilities

Cons

  • Limited availability at times
  • Fewer shared amenities than in larger places
  • May not be ideal for big families 

4.  ResidenceHK

residencehk

Location: 22 Des Voeux Rd Central, Central

Contact: +852 6218 4678

Website

Google5/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Location and Neighborhood 4/5
Lease Terms4/5
Amenities and Shared Facilities4/5
Expat-Oriented Services 5/5
Value for Money5/5

ResidenceHK acts as a concierge for serviced apartments. With their services, expats can immediately find a new place without spending money contacting multiple agents.

We liked how personalized the listings are. Everything is based on the client’s budget, location preference, and lifestyle needs.

For expats who need accommodation quickly, they’re a major advantage. They communicate fast, with same-day replies and frequent follow-ups. 

As for the apartments themselves, we find them flexible in terms of size and facilities. There are units ideal for solo expats, as well as big families coming into Hong Kong.

On top of that, they also offer hands-on support. ResidenceHK assists with lease coordination, settlement, and early move-in guidance.

We find this a helpful offering, especially for first-timers in HK.

According to clients, the value for money really stands out considering the apartment sizes and services.

Availability varies from time to time, so it’s recommended to reach out at least a month ahead.

Pros

  • Responsive and proactive communication
  • Strong understanding of expat needs
  • One-stop access to serviced apartments
  • Detailed and personalized listings
  • Offers guidance and support to expats
  • Strong value for money

Cons

  • Availability varies
  • May have limited options for limited stays

5.  Atlas Guest House & Backpackers

atlas-guest-house-backpackers

Location: 7th Floor, Unit AB, 86-88 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui

Contact: +852 3706 5955

Website

Google4.3/5
Total reviews4/5
Score consistency5/5
Location and Neighborhood 5/5
Lease Terms3/5
Amenities and Shared Facilities4/5
Expat-Oriented Services 3/5
Value for Money5/5

For expats on short-term stays, Atlas may be a good choice. We love their range of accommodation types. They have everything from private and premium rooms to mixed dorms.

The location ticked our box immediately. It’s strategically located in Tsim Sha Tsui. This is just steps from the MTR buses, Star Ferry, and key shopping districts.

With this, expats are located near key amenities and transport options.

The staff makes the entire experience easy. They handle pre-check-in guidance and accommodate early arrivals when necessary.

When it comes to room quality, we find them well-maintained. This is thanks to their daily housekeeping, complete with fresh linens and clean shower/toilet facilities/.

The combination of style and affordability also stood out to us. We find them a good value for money compared to other options in TST.

Considering their service style, big families may be better off looking elsewhere. Long-term stays are also a bit limited.

Pros

  • Prime central location
  • Friendly and accommodating staff
  • Daily housekeeping 
  • Wide variety of accommodation types
  • Private safes
  • Solid common areas
  • Affordable rates
  • Can accommodate early check-ins

Cons

  • Not ideal for big families
  • Limited for long-term stays

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