The cost of living in several of the world’s biggest cities has been increasing.

The phenomenon of the mega-city is not entirely new to humanity. That being said, the number of mega-cities, their population, and even their expenses are always growing.

Cosmopolitan centers have popped up in many empires across history. They are typically situated at a crossroads for trade, politics, and culture, and produce a significant portion of the world’s cultural and material achievements. Much of the same can be said for many of the world’s current mega cities, of which there are several.

Topping the list, there is Singapore, which was ranked the world’s most expensive city for the fifth year in a row. Singapore is ideally situated when you consider global trade, but that alone doesn’t make the city rich and expensive to live in. Singapore is a modern success story, as the city-state rose from poverty in the 60s, and is now richer (per capita) than even Germany or Japan. Geography, long-term wise management, and the country’s small, urban make-up have allowed for a rich, vibrant, and highly educated society that doesn’t have to deal with many of the problems that larger countries do. This year, however, Paris and Hong Kong have joined the top spots, though Singapore still marginally more expensive.

In second places (technically tied for first), Paris and Hong Kong each are uniquely situated for wealth and the corresponding cost of living. Tourism has changed Paris, while Hong Kong has long been one of the busiest, largest, and most crowded cities in Asia, and thus the world.

When it comes to continents, Asia and Europe are home to the majority of the world’s most expensive cities. The only North American cities on the list were New York City and Los Angeles, ranked 7th and 10th, respectively.