Cost of Living in China
Massive, modernizing nation; offers high teaching salaries and low living costs, especially in inland Tier 2 cities.
Explore the Wise account£622
Average cost per month
Distribution of Expenses
Tea ceremonies & Kung Fu
Diverse: mountains, deserts & deltas
Global power; rapid tech adoption
Cost of living breakdown for China
You can expect to spend around £622 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.
Housing
Standard of Living
Food & Drink
China average costs for food and drink.
Salary & Services
China average salaries and services.
Average living costs in China
| Item | Average price | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £296.65 | £162.15 - £779.19 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £176.47 | £108.10 - £432.40 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £681.63 | £324.30 - £1,713.10 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £371.80 | £214.04 - £878.90 |
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Cities in China
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of living in China depends on your lifestyle and location. On average, a single person needs £393 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £1,436. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £297 on average.
Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in China costs £0.21. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £16.
The average monthly net salary (after tax) in China is currently £784.
Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in China costs approximately £2, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £16.
The estimated monthly cost of living in China for a single person is £393, excluding rent.
For a family of four living in China, the estimated monthly costs are £1,436, not including rent.
Rent prices in China depend on location. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in a city centre is £297, compared to £176 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £682 in city centres and £372 in suburban areas.
Basic utilities in China (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £39 per month. Internet access typically adds another £8.