Beijing

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 11, 2022

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Beijing, China: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.

What do I need to know before moving to Beijing?

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

"Be patient and have a lot of cash on hand! Apartments in north China require an initial payment of 3 months and 1-month deposit. That is a lot of money to spend at the beginning. Everyone should arrive in Beijing with at least a minimum of $5,000 USD for start-up costs. The best way to find an apartment is to ask a colleague which realtors they used," added another person living in Beijing .

"Find a local from Beijing to help with location. Pay attention to what comes with the property, 24 hour hot water, elevator, heat, satellite tv, internet, and the maintenance. The sizes are in square meters which isn't always accurate because they describe construction size and not the living space," explained one expat living in Beijing.

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How do I find a place to live in Beijing?

Expat Health Insurance

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Expat Health Insurance

Get a quotes for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Guide to Living in Beijing, China
Beijing, China: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Beijing

China Forum
Join our China forum to meet other people living in Beijing, China.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Beijing.

Healthcare in China

Expats living in China discuss health insurance and quality of medical care in China. Tip 1: if you're going to the hospital in China (or to a doctor), bring a translator!

Rentals in Beijing

Rental listings in Beijing. Plus, advice about renting and buying real estate in Beijing

Expats Talk about Living in Beijing

Expats talk about what it's like living in Beijing, China: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What Newcomers to Beijing Should Know

Expat Report: Moving to Beijing

An expat in Beijing advises newcomers to bring shoes (especially if they were larger sizes), a first aid kit and to install a VPN on your computer and phone before you move to China. He explains that you'll need a lot of cash on hand initially since most apartments require 3-month initial payment plus a 1-month deposit. When deciding where to live in Beijing, make sure you live close to work to avoid spending your life in traffic.

Expat Health Insurance

Get a quotes for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
GET A QUOTE

Expat Health Insurance

Get a quotes for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
GET A QUOTE

Thanksgiving in Beijing

For American expats looking to dine out on Thanksgiving, here's a list of several restaurants offering Thanksgiving dinners in Beijing.

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6 Important Tips about Healthcare for Expats in China

Expats living in China discuss health insurance and quality of medical care in China. Tip 1: if you're going to the hospital in China (or to a doctor), bring a translator!

9 Things to Know Before Moving to China

Expats in China offer tips for newcomers and others considering a move to China. Advice what to bring when you move to China, health insurance and healthcare, finding an apartment, expat banking and more.