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Zhuhai, China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2023

Summary: The population of Zhuhai, China is 1.5 million people. Zhuhai is a modern city with a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful coastline. Expats love living in Zhuhai for its convenient location, low cost of living, and friendly locals. The weather in Zhuhai is generally mild and humid. The average temperature in the summer is around 86°F (30°C) and in the winter it is around 54°F (12°C). The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400 USD per month and a two bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month.

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What do I need to know about living in Zhuhai?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Zhuhai, they said:

"Before retiring in Zhuhai, expats should familiarize themselves with local rules, regulations and customs. Additionally, expats may want to learn about the healthcare system, potential healthcare providers and the local job market. It is also important to acquire a thorough understanding of the local real estate market and the cost of living. Expats should also research the available banks and financial services, public and private transportation options, as well as fun things to do in Zhuhai. Last but not least, expats should enroll in language courses and learn some Mandarin in order to better integrate into the local culture," said one expat in Zhuhai, China.

"1. Learn Chinese ASAP! 2. Remember this is a Communist Country 3. Remember you are a guest here 4. Join www.ZhuhaiNights.com It's easy to have fun and get very comfortable here. The joke is that once you've been here, you can never truly leave (my 2 week holiday to Zhuhai is in its third year now!!!) but it's also important to remember to be on your best behaviour at all times. I have never seen the inside of a Chinese jail and I intend on keeping it that way," said one expat who made the move to Zhuhai.

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What do I need to know before moving to Zhuhai?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Zhuhai, they said:

"Before moving to Zhuhai, expats should be aware of the language barrier, as Mandarin is China's official language. It is recommended that expats learn some basic Mandarin if they plan to stay in Zhuhai for a prolonged period of time. Additionally, expats should ensure that they have proper visas and residency permits to legally reside in the city. Expats should also be prepared to face cultural differences, as the city is quite different from many Western countries. Weather-wise, Zhuhai experiences both hot, humid summers and dry, mild winters. In Zhuhai, the cost of living is lower than many other major cities in China, making it a great spot for expats on a budget. Furthermore, the quality of medical care in Zhuhai is considered to be quite good," said one expat in Zhuhai, China.

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How do I find a place to live in Zhuhai?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One popular platform to search for housing in Zhuhai is through online local classifieds such as Gushixin. There are websites such as 58.com and qfang which list apartments and rental houses. Additionally, real estate agencies usually have a good understanding of the local market and can offer assistance in navigating the housing market in Zhuhai. It is also possible to find housing through joining expat forums and connecting with others who are living in the area," said one expat in Zhuhai, China.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Zhuhai?

"Expat housing in Zhuhai typically ranges from modern high-rise apartments in city centers to more suburban low-rise buildings, with a variety of sizes, layouts and furnishing options to suit different needs. Most expats opt for the convenience and sense of security that come with living in a managed building. Apartments usually include modern kitchens and bathrooms, and are usually partially--or fully--furnished with comfortable furniture, air conditioning and all the necessary appliances. Many buildings offer recreational amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, gardens and playgrounds, allowing expats to enjoy a comfortable and enriching lifestyle," wrote a member in Zhuhai, China.

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What is the average cost of housing in Zhuhai?

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

"Average housing prices in Zhuhai have been steadily increasing over the past few years. According to a survey of real estate prices in the city, the average cost of purchasing a home for a single family in Zhuhai is between 15,000 and 25,000 RMB per square meter. This is significantly cheaper than many other Chinese cities, making Zhuhai a popular choice for many people looking to purchase property," wrote one member in Zhuhai, China.

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How do I meet people in Zhuhai?

When we asked people living in Zhuhai about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Zhuhai can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange, city tours, sporting events, yoga classes, book clubs, and craft beer tasting events. Another way for expats to meet people is to sign up for classes or seminars at the local universities, join a local church or spiritual group, attend concerts or events at local parks and cultural venues, or join Meetup groups such as Zhuhai Expats. Additionally, expats can meet people by attending happy hours or networking events hosted by local companies and businesses," said one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

"ZhuhaiNights.com is Zhuhai's only English city-wide dedicated lifestyle web site, run by expats living locally in the city. With over 3,000 members, half of those being Chinese and half being foreigners, it's a great way to meet friends. It's fun and free. The organisers of the web site also host regular events, including a weekly English / Chinese language exchange, days out to Zhuhai's International Race Circuit, trips to surrounding islands, pool parties, dance parties and more to boot. DeltaBridges.com covers the entire Pearl River region and is great for anyone looking to visit more surrounding cities. It's another great way to connect with the locals and the DB city guide is very large with English and Chinese address details to help you get around. Additionally, you might spot on of their handy pocket-sized city guide books in one of the many locations around town," explained one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

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What should I bring when moving to Zhuhai?

People living in Zhuhai were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When packing for your move to Zhuhai, it is important to make sure you bring the essentials. Pack enough clothes for the warm weather, such as light and breathable items such as shorts and t-shirts. Pack comfortable footwear such as water shoes and sandals. Bring along any necessary documents like passports and visas. Remember to also pack any medications you currently take. If you wear glasses, make sure to bring an extra pair. Lastly, bring items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and a raincoat to help you stay comfortable while outdoors," said one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Zhuhai?

We asked expats in Zhuhai what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in Zhuhai, expats should have an understanding of Chinese language, culture and customs. Expats should also be aware of the local visa and residency regulations, as well as their country's embassy or consulate to ensure that they have the correct documents and permits. Furthermore, expats should research and be familiar with the local healthcare and medical care options in Zhuhai, as well as any particular health requirements for the city and region. It is also important for expats to research the cost of living for the area, such as accommodation, transport, and food costs, to ensure that their budget fits with their desired lifestyle. Finally, expats should make sure to connect with trusted networks, such as the local expat forums, to find out from others about their experiences with retirement in Zhuhai," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

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Will I be able to find a job in Zhuhai?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Zhuhai, they reponded:

"Zhuhai promotes only clean industries, pollution is reduced to a minimum. Job opportunities: If you're good, you will find a job;-)," explained one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

"Being located in Guangdong, Zhuhai is of course involved in production. However, the local government is trying to focus on High Tech rather than mass production. The city is quite pretty and has an ideal location (walking distance from Macau, 1 hour ferry from HK, and 2 hours from Guanzhou and Shenzhen by coach), so a lot of Foreign companies who need to operate in Guangdong for production are setting up in Zhuhai their headquarters. Services are also developping fast. To look for a job here, or if your company has a vacancy, the best solution is to post an ad (for free) in the Classifieds section of http://www.MacauZhuhai.com," said one expat in Zhuhai.

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What is life like in Zhuhai?

When we asked people living in Zhuhai what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Zhuhai is a sleepy, laid-back city on the South China Sea. It's miles of coastline attract tourists the world-over, so the priority is usually to have a great time. Work does go on here though - in the form of new cutting-edge business districts, multi-national corporations and SMEs all managing to operate successfully. To be well-and-truly on the pulse of life in Zhuhai, I strongly recommend joining www.ZhuhaiNights.com," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai.

"Most people are focused on work, but many also enjoy going out at night. In general, people realize that they need to improve their Chinese ability because English is rather limited here. I suggest finding language teachers on www.TutorSearchChina.com," remarked one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

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What do expats in Zhuhai appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Zhuhai often appreciate the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of the city. The local cuisine is renowned for its variety and delicious flavours. Residents are proud of their culture and share it with visitors in the form of festivals such as the International Beer Festival, the Lantern Festival and the Chinese New Year celebrations. Additionally, locals place great emphasis on art and culture, with many events such as the Golden Peacock Art Festival held throughout the year. Furthermore, the city is known for its gorgeous landscapes, consisting of islands, mountains and rivers. All these factors contribute to an enjoyable atmosphere for expats living in Zhuhai," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"English can be a significant challenge for expats in Zhuhai, as almost all public signs and directions are written in Chinese characters. Additionally, since Zhuhai is a small city, many services and procedures rely heavily on personal connections, which can be difficult for foreigners to access. Foreigners may also find it difficult to adjust to the lack of personal space, as people in Zhuhai are more physical and interactive than Westerners are used to. Finally, the bureaucracy in China can be especially daunting for expats, with lengthy paperwork and processes for even the simplest of tasks," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

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Is there a lot of crime in Zhuhai?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Zhuhai is known for being a relatively safe city, and crime rates are generally low. Generally speaking, street crime is not a big problem in Zhuhai. It is not uncommon to see people walking around in the night without any fear of being targeted by criminals. People feel very safe and secure in Zhuhai," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai, China.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Zhuhai accepting of differences?

"I have met some of the nicest people here in Zhuhai. Part of the secret of the success of the city is that in the past 40 years it underwent rapid development, meaning that most people who live in Zhuhai aren't really FROM Zhuhai. When you have a city where the majority of people are 'outsiders' it makes everyone a little more respectful of the fact that they are honoured guests in this city. Speaking Chinese (Mandarin) helps a LOT. Services like http://www.chinesepod.com/ means you've got no excuse not to be able to bust out a bit of Chinese to break the ice, but an improved level of Chinese makes the world of difference," commented one expat who made the move to Zhuhai.

"Not very diverse, people often stare at you as a foreigner. If your skin is somewhat dark, or if you are black, people often pass judgement on you quickly. However, it is a beautiful city with many friendly people. Religion is not so deep here," remarked one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

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What are the schools in Zhuhai like?

"Zhuhai has several excellent international schools and bilingual schools, each offering its own distinct advantages for expat or bilingual families. One of the top international schools is Zhuhai International School, which offers a rigorous yet engaging IB program from age 3-18. The school also offers an emphasis on bilingualism, with programs to help students excel in both Chinese and English. Another top international school is Macao Institute of Languages and Education, which provides a bilingual program in English and Chinese with a focus on developing cultural and linguistic knowledge, as well as critical thinking. Finally, two of the best bilingual schools in Zhuhai are iC International Education and Little Star International, both offering excellent educational programs. iC offers a dual language program with a focus on preparing students for their future studies, while Little Star offers an immersion program in both Chinese and English," remarked one parent with kids at in Zhuhai, China.

"Since my child is in the preschool and the experience was goo, I have not heard anything negative in the higher classes," explained one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Zhuhai?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Zhuhai responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Zhuhai appreciate the city's low cost of living, its convenient transportation system, and its proximity to Hong Kong and Macau. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, its diverse cuisine, and its stunning natural scenery. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and cultural differences challenging. Additionally, the air quality in Zhuhai can be poor at times, which can be a deterrent for some," said an expat in Zhuhai.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Zhuhai?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Zhuhai, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Zhuhai typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through various activities such as language exchanges, meet-ups, and social events. Expats often join local clubs and organizations, such as the Zhuhai International Club, which offers a range of activities and events for members. Additionally, there are many bars, restaurants, and cafes in the city that offer a great atmosphere for socializing," said an expat in Zhuhai.

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"Zhuhai is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events to enjoy. The city is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to relax and spend time with friends. Additionally, Zhuhai is known for its nightlife, with a range of clubs and live music venues to explore," remarked one expat living in Zhuhai.

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What advice to expats in Zhuhai have about housing?

"When looking for housing in Zhuhai, it is important to research the area thoroughly and make sure it is safe and secure. It is also important to check the quality of the housing and make sure it is up to your standards. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area and make sure it is within your budget. It is also recommended to look for housing that is close to public transportation and amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and parks. Finally, it is important to make sure that the landlord is reliable and trustworthy," commented one expat living in Zhuhai, China.

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What are medical services in Zhuhai like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Zhuhai, they replied:

"Zhuhai offers a wide range of medical services, including both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Many of the hospitals and clinics are equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by experienced medical professionals. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies in the city that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," wrote one expat living in Zhuhai.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Zhuhai?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Zhuhai can be expensive, depending on the type of care and insurance coverage needed. Generally, public healthcare is more affordable than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Health insurance plans vary in cost and coverage, so it is important to research the different options available to find the best plan for one's needs," commented one expat who moved to Zhuhai.

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Is the cost of living in Zhuhai high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Zhuhai, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Zhuhai is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Zhuhai, China is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Zhuhai, China typically costs around $10 USD per person," remarked one expat living in Zhuhai.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Zhuhai?

"To apply for a visa to Zhuhai, applicants must first submit an application form, a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued and the applicant will be able to enter Zhuhai. To apply for residency in Zhuhai, China, applicants must first obtain a valid visa. Once in Zhuhai, applicants must register with the local police station and submit an application form, a valid passport, a recent passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the local police station. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the residency will be issued and the applicant will be able to stay in Zhuhai," said one expat.

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Why do people move to Zhuhai?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Zhuhai, they responded:

"Zhuhai is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and convenient location. The city is situated on the Pearl River Delta, making it a great base for exploring the rest of the country. Additionally, Zhuhai offers a wide range of cultural activities, from traditional Chinese festivals to modern shopping malls. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Finally, Zhuhai is home to a number of international schools, making it an ideal place for expats with children," said one expat living in Zhuhai.

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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.

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