East Asia Updated
Average Cost of Living in China
The average cost of living in China ranges from $329 per month in Chongqing to $765 per month in Shanghai, with a median monthly basket of $445 for a single person. We track 13 cities in China.
Prices in USD, refreshed regularly. Click any city for the full price breakdown.
On this page 3 sections
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| China at a glance | Headline numbers across 13 cities. |
| Cities in China | Sort by cheapest, most expensive, A–Z, or cost index. |
| Frequently asked about China | Common questions about prices, salaries, and relocating. |
Cities tracked
13
Median monthly · single
$445
Average cost index
11
NYC = 100
Most / least expensive
Shanghai /
Chongqing
Browse cities
13 cities shown
About cost of living in China
- How expensive is China?
- China has 13 cities tracked in our dataset. Costs vary considerably across the country: Chongqing is among the most affordable, while Shanghai ranks among the most expensive.
- How much money do I need to live in China?
- Budget anywhere from $329 per month in Chongqing (the cheapest tracked city) to $765 per month in Shanghai (the most expensive). Pick the city that matches your work and lifestyle, then add 15–25% on top of the basket for taxes, savings, and discretionary spending.
- What is the cheapest city in China?
- Chongqing typically offers the lowest cost of living in China, especially on rent and groceries. Salaries are usually lower too — compare both before relocating.
- Which city in China has the best quality of life for expats?
- The best fit depends on your work and lifestyle. Capital cities offer the most amenities, English-speaking services, and international communities, while regional cities trade those for affordability and a slower pace.
- Is the cost-of-living data for China up to date?
- Prices are normalized to USD and refreshed periodically. Currency fluctuations can shift dollar-denominated costs even when local prices are stable, so use the figures as a relative comparison rather than a precise quote.