How Much Does It Cost to Live in China? Check the Answer Here!

Over the past few decades, China’s fast-growing economy has made it a top choice for foreign workers wanting to boost their income. 

Still, many of them wonder if the country is actually expensive to live in. In this piece, we’ll break down what you might spend in a month while living in China, plus the things that can push costs up or down.

Cost of Living in China Breakdown

The cost of living in China can of course vary depending on the needs of each individual. In addition, location also plays a significant role, with the cost of living in large cities tending to be higher than living in the suburbs. Here is a breakdown of the estimated cost of living in India.

Food & Drink Costs in China

The cost of eating and drinking in China varies greatly depending on the region and the place you choose to eat. Fancy restaurants located in tourist areas tend to be more expensive than regular restaurants. But overall, the cost of eating and drinking in China is still quite affordable. 

In cheap restaurants or fast food restaurants, the estimated cost per person is around 30-40 yuan, while in mid-range restaurants it is around 100 yuan per person for three courses. Shopping and cooking yourself can be more economical, because the prices of groceries in Chinese supermarkets tend to be cheap. 

Transportation costs

China has an efficient transportation system, including high-speed trains, buses and taxis, with costs varying depending on the distance and type of transportation you use. 

Although intercity high-speed train tickets are usually more expensive than conventional trains, the cost of using public transportation such as buses is much more affordable. A one-way ticket for local transportation is around 3 yuan or equivalent to Rp6.5 thousand, while a monthly ticket costs around 200 yuan or equivalent to Rp433 thousand. Taxi use costs between 2 and 48 yuan per trip.

Housing Costs

The cost of living in China is heavily influenced by the cost of rent. As in other countries, the price of renting an apartment in China is determined by location, size, and available amenities. In big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, rent tends to be higher than in smaller cities. 

The cost of living in China is heavily influenced by the cost of rent. As in other countries, the price of renting an apartment in China is determined by location, size, and available amenities. In big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, rent tends to be higher than in smaller cities. 

If you choose an apartment in the suburbs, you can save about half of the rental price in the city center, with the rental cost of a one-bedroom apartment around 4,300 yuan or equivalent to Rp9.3 million and three-bedrooms around 9,100 yuan or equivalent to Rp19.7 million.

Other Fees

The cost of entertainment and other necessities in China varies according to individual preferences and lifestyles. For example, movie tickets in big cities range from 50 to 100 yuan or equivalent to Rp108 thousand to Rp216 thousand. Ticket prices for concerts or art performances can be higher, depending on the artist and the type of event.

Read Also: It's So Easy! How to Import Goods from China on a Small Scale

Joining a gym, spa or other sports activities membership can increase your entertainment costs. Therefore, you need to plan and consider your budget before deciding to join.

Total Cost of Living in China per Month

Overall, the total cost of living in China is influenced by the location of the residence and the individual's lifestyle. Large cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou tend to have a higher cost of living than rural areas. For example, the monthly cost of living in Beijing is estimated to be around 4,700 yuan, excluding rent.

In general, the monthly living expenses for a single person across China range from 5,000 to 10,000 yuan, including apartment rent, food, transportation and entertainment.

Selain itu, gaya hidup juga memainkan peran penting dalam menentukan biaya hidup. Seseorang dengan gaya hidup mewah, hobi belanja, dan sering berkunjung ke tempat-tempat wisata populer akan menghabiskan lebih banyak uang daripada seseorang dengan gaya hidup sederhana. Berikut jika kamu ingin transfer uang ke china:

Tips for Choosing a Place to Live or an Apartment in China

Choosing a place to live or an apartment in China can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the country’s property market. Here are some tips that can help you in choosing a place to live in China:

1. Determine the area you want to live in according to your needs. Consider accessibility to work, schools, shopping centers, and other public facilities. Some of China's big cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, have very dense areas and busy traffic, so be sure to choose a location that suits your lifestyle.
2. Set a clear budget for renting or buying a property. Property prices in China's major cities can be very high, so make sure you consider your financial availability. 
3. Check the amenities offered by the apartment or housing complex. Some common amenities include a fitness center, swimming pool, children's playground, and 24-hour security. Make sure these amenities match your needs and preferences.
4. Also make sure the area is safe and secure. You can look for information about the crime rate in the area and check whether the housing complex has adequate security.
5. Also consider public transportation accessibility from where you live. A nearby subway or bus station can make it easier to get around the city.

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