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Cost of Living in China | Expat Exchange
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Shanghai, China

Cost of Living in China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2024

Summary: The cost of living in China varies greatly depending on the city and the lifestyle of the individual. Generally speaking, a nice 1 bedroom apartment in China can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in China can range from $10 to $30 per person.

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Is the cost of living in China high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in China, they wrote:

"It does not take much but unless you marry a Chinese citizen you can only stay here for one year and then you have to leave and get a new visa. In order to get a new visa you have to go back to you home country. And, there is no guarantee China will give you a new visa. No reason they won't either," remarked one in Nanning, Guangxi Provence.

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Will I save money living in China?

"A little more expensive day to day than what I expected, but my wife is "retired" she is 50 and her daughter lives with us so I am spending for 3 instead of one. On the other hand I now live in her apartment which she owns so there is no rent to pay. However her apartment is only about 600 sq ft, 2 bedrooms with a small quest room which we use for our computers, my file cabinet, bookcases and two wardrobes. I am thinking of renting a 30 to 40 sq meter apartment to use as a work area," said one expat in Nanning, Guangxi Provence.

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What is the average cost of housing in China?

If you are thinking about moving to China, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"I've lived in Shenzhen for 8 years, and as with any city, location determines cost. Anyway close to the metro, in a modern residential complex, with good facilities will usually average out at about 120RMB per month per sq metre. So a good 75-90 sqm 2-3 BR apartment will set you back between 8-11k a month for an average apartment. Budget another 400-700 per month for management fees, power, water, and gas. Another 150 for Internet. Budget for up front costs of 2 months rent in advance, and 50% of a months rental for agency fee, if using an agent. Obviously, sharing with another expat will halve everything, so a good option to consider. Another option is to look at renting a spare room in an apartment that expats currently rent. You can often get these for 2-3k a month, including all utilities and wifi," remarked one expat in China.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in China?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in China can vary but generally starts around $400 USD per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment the rental price can start from around $550 USD per month," wrote an expat living in China.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in China what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In rental properties in China, tenants can typically expect appliances such as a stove, refrigerator, and water heater to be included. In some cases, the rental property may also come with a washing machine and air conditioning unit. In addition, many rental properties offer access to communal on-site amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and shared garden space," remarked one expat in China.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Shanghai, China
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