Cost of Living in China
On the whole, the cost of living in China is still much lower than in western countries, despite the nation's status as an economic powerhouse. Furthermore, most expats are lured abroad by lucrative salary packages that allow them to achieve a lifestyle far above that of the local populace, though, don't be fooled into thinking that luxury amenities are cheap.
As in most destinations, the cost of living in the larger, urban centres will far exceed that of the small, rural villages. Beijing and Shanghai, in particular, claim cost of livings on par with major European capitals.
As a rule, the cost of purchasing imported, western-style brands and goods will be significantly more expensive - cereal in particular is exorbitant. Not to mention, prices associated with items that are not typically Chinese, like dairy and wine, will also be higher.
On the other hand though, local products and services are widely available and incredibly affordable. Fresh produce and food stuffs, clothing, entertainment and domestically-manufactured electronics are all very reasonably priced in China.
For the most part, an expat living in this Asian superpower will find their largest expense to be accommodation, especially for those basing themselves in Beijing or Shanghai. In these over-populated, commercial centres the closer the accommodation is to the city centre, the more expensive it tends to be.
As in most destinations, the cost of living in the larger, urban centres will far exceed that of the small, rural villages. Beijing and Shanghai, in particular, claim cost of livings on par with major European capitals.As a rule, the cost of purchasing imported, western-style brands and goods will be significantly more expensive - cereal in particular is exorbitant. Not to mention, prices associated with items that are not typically Chinese, like dairy and wine, will also be higher.
On the other hand though, local products and services are widely available and incredibly affordable. Fresh produce and food stuffs, clothing, entertainment and domestically-manufactured electronics are all very reasonably priced in China.
For the most part, an expat living in this Asian superpower will find their largest expense to be accommodation, especially for those basing themselves in Beijing or Shanghai. In these over-populated, commercial centres the closer the accommodation is to the city centre, the more expensive it tends to be.
- Est. cost of a LUXURY 2-bedroom unfurnished apartment in Beijing ~ 20,000 CNY per month
- Est. cost of a MID-RANGE 2 bedroom unfurnished apartment in Beijing ~ 11,000 CNY per month
Expats who relocate with children will also find that the costs attached to international schooling can be astronomical, in some cases higher than tuition for a year of university in their home country; it's best to try and negotiate fees into your contract. Most companies will provide an allowance.
- Est. tuition for international schools (primary level) ~ 120,000 CNY per year
Transportation costs can be minimal, if you're based in a big city with a reliable public transit system. In contrast, driving in China can be treacherous, and expensive at that. A leased vehicle can cost nearly as much as a second rent, petrol isn't cheap, and in many cases it's necessary to hire a driver.
- Est. cost of a VW Passat with driver (excluding petrol) in Beijing ~ 10,000 CNY per month
Expats planning to move to China should carefully evaluate their level of comfort, research the associated cost of living, and negotiate their contract accordingly. Most Chinese living in urban locations have a disposable income of 17,000 CNY per month, so living cheaply is possible, but the majority of expats expect a standard of goods and services that demands a much larger income than this.
