Batgung

Hello!

I have been doing some research about the cost of living (for 2)and wanted to check my numbers with you to hear different opinions.

Here is what I found calculated in a monthly basis:

Phone: $110
Mobile phone: $160 (for 2) (I have heard people spending average of 500 alone!)
Internet: $238
Electricity: $600 (annual average) Is this right? I have heard of people spending much more for air con running all year.
Gas: $400
Water: $150
Housing: $17.000 (average for a 1 or 2 bedroom apartment)Is this number righ or could I get better prices for a decent place?
Transportation: $1.500 (for 2) I kow that it depends where you live, but I don't know and wanted to be covered for daily trips.
Food and home supplies: $3000 (for 2)
Clothing: $1.000
House cleaning: $1.500 a month. (8hrs x 4 times a month)

I don't have any kids yet, and I know that schooling would add and extra amount.

This gives me a total of around 24.700 HKD a month. Do you feel is a right number?

And then... the most difficult part. Trying to figure out the right income...

I am an Industrial Designer with 6 years of experience and I am applying for a job at a consultancy (not a corporation). I read about many different stories, from which I end up with a number around 30 to 35K a month.

I know it can vary, also considering housing and flight allowances, insurance, bonus, etc. Even dough, I don't know what is standard when dealing with a consultancy. I don't want to undersell and don't want to give out a number so high to fall out.

So... what should I expect in term of benefits? How much can I ask for? Please give your opinion.

Thanks!