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Cost of Living in Shanghai, China | Expat Exchange
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Shanghai, China

Cost of Living in Shanghai

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 10, 2025

Summary: The cost of living in Shanghai, China is generally considered to be quite high. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Shanghai can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Shanghai can range from $10 to $20 USD per person.

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Is the cost of living in Shanghai high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Shanghai, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Shanghai can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances. Generally, accommodation and dining out tend to be quite affordable, with basic amenities such as transportation and utilities also relatively inexpensive. Groceries can be slightly more expensive than in other parts of the city, but buying in bulk usually helps to offset this. Additionally, entertainment and leisure activities are widely available and often of good value for money," said one expat in Shanghai, China.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Shanghai?

"Living in Shanghai compared to the United States can offer significant savings on rental costs, goods and services. Prices for basic needs such as food, transportation, and utilities are noticeably lower in Shanghai than in most US cities. In addition, the cost of living in China is significantly lower than in many US cities, meaning that a person's lifestyle could be improved while spending less money compared to life in the United States," remarked one expat in Shanghai, China.

What is the average cost of housing in Shanghai?

If you are thinking about moving to Shanghai, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Shanghai is typically higher than in other parts of the country, due to the city's popularity and the resulting high demand. Average rental prices vary significantly based on location, age, and quality of the home, but generally range from medium-priced apartments to luxury villas," wrote a person living in Shanghai, China.

"Higher with less quality BUT the wages are much, much higher than the same job back home. One bedroom apartments can range from 5-14, 000 rmb per month, depending on location, type of building, furnishings, etc," explained one expat living in Shanghai.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Shanghai?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Shanghai can range from around $500 to $2,000 per month, depending on the location and amenities. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Shanghai can range from around $800 to $3,500 per month, again depending on the location and amenities," remarked one expat in Shanghai.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Shanghai what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In a rental property in Shanghai, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, water heater, and stove. Additionally, some properties may also include a microwave, dishwasher, and other small appliances," commented one expat living in Shanghai, China.

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.

Shanghai, China
William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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