Snapshot (reference)
| City | Rent from (1BR) | Metro pass/mo | Meal (local) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | ¥5,500 | ¥180 | ¥35 |
| Shanghai | ¥6,500 | ¥180 | ¥40 |
| Hangzhou | ¥3,500 | ¥150 | ¥30 |
| Suzhou | ¥3,000 | ¥150 | ¥28 |
| Guangzhou | ¥3,500 | ¥160 | ¥30 |
| Shenzhen | ¥4,500 | ¥160 | ¥38 |
Figures are planning estimates, not live quotes. A full calculator with schooling and utilities is coming in P1.
📊 Want a real 2026 Shanghai budget? We broke down what a single expat, a couple and a family actually spend each month — rent, food, transport, hidden costs and the things nobody warns you about. Read the Shanghai Monthly Budget Guide →