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Retire in Guangzhou, China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 02, 2025

Summary: Retirees are attracted to Guangzhou, China for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in Guangzhou, which offer a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. On average, a nice 2 bedroom home in Guangzhou costs around $100,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home costs around $150,000 USD. The weather in Guangzhou is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.

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What is it like to retire in Guangzhou?

"Guangzhou is an excellent city for expat retirees looking for a stimulating lifestyle. There are many cultural attractions in Guangzhou that cater to retirees in terms of providing entertainment, such as the Opera House, the Canton Tower, and the Guangzhou Zoo. Guangzhou also has a bustling nightlife with its many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. There is also an active expat community in Guangzhou where retirees can meet up, exchange experiences, and build relationships. Retirees looking for outdoor recreation will find plenty of that here too, from hiking and biking trails to shopping malls, parks, and beaches. All in all, Guangzhou offers retirees a great combination of vibrant culture, recreation, and nightlife opportunities," commented one retiree living in Guangzhou, China, China.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad can be a great way to get a new start on life. For those considering retiring to Guangzhou, it is important to research the culture and customs to make sure it is a good fit for you. Make sure to research healthcare options in Guangzhou and consider if the infrastructure will meet your needs. Take time to connect with other expat retirees to get a better understanding of the city and to find new friends. Take advantage of the diverse range of activities available in Guangzhou, from cultural events and religious places of worship to everyday activities. Finally, make sure to bring or arrange for whatever documents and currency are needed to make it easy to settle in and get started," said a retiree who moved to Guangzhou, China, China.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Guangzhou?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Guangzhou is adjusting to the language and cultural barriers. English is not widely spoken, making it difficult to access many goods, services, and housing options. Adjusting to the local climate can also be difficult, as the humid subtropical climate can be quite unpredictable with hot and rainy summers and cold winters. Although Guangzhou offers a variety of entertainment options, language and cultural challenges can make it difficult to navigate. Another challenge can be finding the right healthcare as a retiree, due to many of the options being in Chinese and incomprehension of China’s healthcare system. Finding suitable housing can also present a challenge, as the cost of living in Guangzhou is quite high in comparison to other locations in China," said one retiree in living in Guangzhou, China, China.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Guangzhou?

"Living in Guangzhou can be a very rewarding experience for retirees as there are many unique cultural attractions to explore. Retirees can take advantage of the city's wealth of historical sites, traditional markets and architectural wonders, such as the iconic Canton Tower. Guangzhou is home to some of China's best restaurants, offering a diverse array of delicious cuisines. With the city's efficient public transportation system, retirees can easily explore the city and its surroundings with ease. Additionally, the city is renowned for its world-class healthcare, making it a safe place for everyone, particularly the elderly. Retirees can also benefit from the city's temperate climate year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking," commented one retiree living in Guangzhou, China, China.

What are healthcare services like in Guangzhou?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Guangzhou. They wrote:

"Guangzhou has a number of healthcare services available for its citizens. Most of the hospitals in Guangzhou are public hospitals, however there are also a few private medical facilities. Hospitals in Guangzhou have a variety of medical departments and provide services such as emergency care, general health check-ups, and specialized treatments for chronic and infectious diseases. There are also a large number of clinics, pharmacies, and health and wellness centres to support the healthcare system in Guangzhou. Additionally, the Chinese government also provides a range of health insurance plans to citizens," remarked one retiree in Guangzhou, China.

How do I meet people in Guangzhou?

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

"GWIC-Guangzhou womens International Club, The Christian worship service (Sunday mornings at 10a.m.)," explained a retiree in Guangzhou.

"Expats living in Guangzhou typically join a number of clubs and activities, such as international sports teams, outdoor adventure groups, language exchanges, and Meetup events. Other ways to meet people include attending events hosted at local international schools or universities, connecting with fellow expats in the area through networks such as InterNations, and interacting with locals through cultural activities. Guangzhou also hosts a number of local networking events for expats, such as the Invest in Guangzhou International Business Networking Event, which allows expats to meet potential business partners and participate in exclusive activities," explained one retiree living in Guangzhou, China.

What is life like in Guangzhou?

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

"Living in Guangzhou as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and modern metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's excellent public transportation system, as well as its many restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The cost of living in Guangzhou is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also home to a large expat community, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. With its diverse culture, delicious food, and friendly locals, Guangzhou is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said a person in Guangzhou.

"People here in China have a huge focus on school. Kids are in school for like 60 hours a week. but when school is out, everyone is outdoors at the park, restaurants, clubs, shopping, etc. The economy here is booming like crazy and most people are starting to work long hours. People are really starting to acquire wealth and property. something they have never known under communism," remarked one retiree in Guangzhou.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Guangzhou?

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

"Take some Chinese classes. It is so frustrating to live here without speaking basic Chinese. And learning to speak is actually quite easy. It's the writing and reading that makes everyone thing Chinese is impossible -- so learn some verbal chinese," said one retiree in Guangzhou.

"When considering retiring in Guangzhou, expats should be aware of the cost of living, and what type of visa is required to stay in the country long-term. Additionally, expats should be aware of the language barrier and find out if there are any language courses or help available. It is also important to research the healthcare system in the city and have some understanding of the government systems and processes, such as taxation. Expats are encouraged to learn the local customs, culture and way of life in order to make the relocation easier. Last but not least, it is recommended to locate nearby expat communities and social networks in order to make the most out of their new experience," commented one retiree living in Guangzhou, China, China.

What type of recreational activities are there in Guangzhou?

"Guangzhou offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. One of the most popular is Chimelong Paradise, a large amusement park with roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions. The Guangzhou Zoo is another popular destination, with a wide variety of animals, including pandas, tigers, and elephants. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several parks in the city, such as Yuexiu Park and Ersha Island, which offer beautiful views and plenty of space to relax. For those looking for a more active experience, there are several sports facilities, such as the Guangzhou Olympic Sports Center, which offers a variety of sports and activities. Finally, for those looking for a more cultural experience, there are several museums and galleries in the city, such as the Guangdong Museum and the Guangzhou Art Museum," said one member in Guangzhou.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Guangzhou?

"In Guangzhou, expats can find a variety of places to buy groceries and do other shopping. One popular option is the Carrefour chain of supermarkets, which has several locations throughout the city. Carrefour offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as fresh produce and prepared meals. Another option is the Walmart chain of stores, which also has several locations in Guangzhou. Walmart offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as fresh produce and prepared meals. For more specialized shopping, expats can visit the Guangzhou International Shopping Mall, which offers a variety of international brands and products. Additionally, expats can find a variety of local markets and street vendors throughout the city, offering a wide selection of fresh produce, prepared meals, and other goods," explained one member in Guangzhou.

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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