Global Mobility Trends: Q2 2025 Insights from AIRINC

Each quarter, AIRINC conducts extensive cost-of-living research across the globe to bring you the latest insights into housing trends, goods and services inflation, tax updates, and more. For Q2 2025, our Data Points research focused primarily on Europe, Asia, and mainland Southeast Asia.

Housing Update: Global Market Snapshots

Astana, Kazakhstan [RISING]

Rents in Astana have surged due to currency devaluation, business relocations from Almaty, and an influx of expatriates from Europe, China, and the Middle East. Junior executives are gravitating toward central apartments, while senior expats favor suburban areas like Karaotkel and Chubary. Demand remains high, with rents expected to climb further in the coming year.

Budapest, Hungary [RISING]

Rental prices continue to rise in Budapest, especially in high-demand districts such as Districts II, XII, V, VI, and XIII. Limited new construction and steady demand are keeping the market tight, with expatriate-friendly homes often rented out quickly.

Chennai, India [RISING]

Driven by domestic economic growth and returning Indian nationals, Chennai’s rental market is heating up. Expatriate demand is steady, especially in areas like Alwarpet and R.A. Puram, as well as premium compounds like Ceebros One 74.

Shanghai, China [FALLING]

In contrast, Shanghai’s rental market is cooling as more expatriates leave than arrive. Geopolitical tensions and corporate caution are contributing to reduced demand.

Other Notable Trends:

• Rising Markets: Dhaka, Istanbul, Moscow, Tel Aviv, Yokohama
• Falling Markets: Tianjin, China

Goods and Services Update

Japanese Rice Shortage

A severe heatwave in 2023 has left Japan grappling with a rice shortage. Prices have soared as the government resists increasing production or accepting rice imports, further straining supply in this culturally vital sector.

Hongkong Post Suspends U.S. Shipments

Following the U.S.'s removal of the "de minimis" exemption, Hongkong Post has suspended all package deliveries to the U.S., though document shipments continue. Residents now rely on private couriers at higher costs.

Inflation Hotspots

• Goods and services inflation remains above 5% in several locations, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Turkey, and Ukraine.
• Exchange Rate Volatility: Significant 3-month currency fluctuations include Venezuela (-57% vs USD), Ghana (+51.1% vs USD), and Turkey (-7.6% vs USD).

Country Tax Updates

Australia

The employer-paid superannuation rate rose to 12% for 2025/2026. While tax rates remain unchanged, family allowances have increased, benefitting middle-income families.

Bulgaria

Social security contributions increased slightly, and Bulgaria is on track to join the Eurozone on January 1, 2026.

Latvia

Revised income tax rates and higher social security contributions will impact middle and higher earners.

Malaysia

A new requirement mandates that foreign employees and employers contribute 2% to Malaysia’s Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), increasing assignment costs.

Other Notable Changes:

Spain, Tunisia, and Panama also introduced adjustments affecting expatriates.