{"id":14116,"date":"2024-04-25T01:34:37","date_gmt":"2024-04-24T17:34:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/?p=14116"},"modified":"2024-07-25T21:24:54","modified_gmt":"2024-07-25T13:24:54","slug":"shanghai-versus-beijing-expats","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/shanghai-versus-beijing-expats.html","title":{"rendered":"Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Expat Living?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats choosing between Shanghai and Beijing will find that the best city for them depends on their preferences for cost of living, quality of life, and local expat communities. Beijing is less expensive than Shanghai, but Shanghai offers a more international population.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both cities are popular with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/country\/international-health-insurance-expats-china\/https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/country\/international-health-insurance-expats-china\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">expats living in China<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and have different things to offer foreigners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you an expat considering moving to China for work or travel opportunities? Are you trying to determine whether Shanghai or Beijing is the better choice for you?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This article from Pacific Prime will help you understand which city is the right fit for you. We will compare the cities based on their cost of living, quality of life, and expat support. Keep reading to learn more!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-72' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/css\/compare-72-new.css?v1.47' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\" class=\"inserter-72-link CompareNowbutton\">\n        <div class=\"inserter-72-new\">\n            <h3>Start by Comparing <br>Insurance Plans Online<\/h3>\n            <div class=\"inserter-img-box\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/img\/desktop.png\" alt=\" \">\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"inserter-compare-box\">\n                <p>Browse and Compare 50,000+ <br>International Health Plans<\/p>\n                <button>Compare NOW<\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/a><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comparing Living in Shanghai and Beijing as an Expat<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-14118 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china.webp\" alt=\"Image of Skyline View Of Beijing, China with text overlay of &quot;Comparing Living in Shanghai and Beijing&quot;\" width=\"1300\" height=\"731\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china.webp 1300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china-600x337.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/skyline-view-of-beijing-china-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1300px) 100vw, 1300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Either Shanghai or Beijing can be the perfect city for an expat, depending on your preferences regarding cost, quality of life, and expat community and support. Before you can determine which of these cities is better for you, you should be aware of what they have to offer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing is the capital of China and has a rich cultural landscape that blends ancient Chinese tradition and modern development. Shanghai, on the other hand, is a more modern city with a very successful finance sector and a large international population.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you prefer a more traditional Chinese experience like you might get in Beijing or a more modern, fast-paced lifestyle like that in Shanghai, either city has something unique to offer expats.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:14915,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:65280},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:255},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;16&quot;:8}\"><div class='code-block code-block-25' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_China_1.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Banner China 1\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Living in Shanghai as an Expat\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats living in Shanghai can expect high apartment costs, a wide array of activities and nightlife, and a broad community of expats throughout the city. Shanghai is a popular choice for expats due to its mix of Eastern and Western influences, variety of job opportunities, and cosmopolitan feel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a population of over 24 million people, Shanghai is a large and vibrant city that attracts plenty of working expats. We will explore the different factors that can affect an expat&#8217;s decision to relocate to Shanghai.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Living in Shanghai\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cost of living in Shanghai can be high, with housing, restaurant meals, and entertainment relatively expensive compared to other Chinese cities. Expats should consider their budget for monthly rent, groceries, and entertainment costs before they decide if Shanghai is right for them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We will explore the cost of living in Shanghai, including rent, food, and entertainment. All currency amounts will be listed in Chinese yuan renminbi (CNY).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Renting in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average cost of rent depends on the city&#8217;s location. In an expensive area, a 900-square-foot apartment can cost CNY 18,915 per month, while in a less expensive area, the same size apartment can cost CNY 9,685 per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Utilities in Shanghai for two people in a 900-square-foot apartment average around CNY 448 per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-60' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import -->\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/css\/m-blog-banner.css?ver4.1' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<style>\n@media (min-width: 1200px) {\n  div.banner-insurers-container {\n    background-image: url('https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner  \/img\/blog-banner-china-bg.png');\n\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import ends -->\n<!-- Blog Banner China -->\n<div class=\"banner-insurers-container\" style=\"background-image: url(https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/blog-banner-china-bg-mobile.png);\n\">\n  <h3 class=\"banner-insurers-title\">\n      Our Top Insurance Recommendations <span>for China<\/span>\n  <\/h3>\n  <a class=\"banner-insurers-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"bupa\" width=\"130\" height=\"130\" style=\"width: 50px; height: 50px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-msh.png\" alt=\"MSH\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>24\/7 Member Support<\/li>\n          <li>Vast Medical Network<\/li>\n          <li>Customizable Benefits<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button CompareNowbutton chirecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n        Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n  <a class=\"banner-insurers-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"130\" height=\"130\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-cigna.png\" alt=\"Cigna\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)<\/li>\n          <li>Access to Cigna's trusted global network of hospitals and doctors<\/li>\n          <li>4 Core Insurance Plans<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button CompareNowbutton chirecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n        Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n<\/div>\n<!-- Blog Banner China ends --><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Food in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groceries such as bread, eggs, and chicken breast can cost an average of CNY 54, while a meal bought from a restaurant or vendor can cost around CNY 58. The amount expats spend per month on food depends on whether they eat out often or choose to cook their meals at home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Entertainment Costs in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A basic dinner at a local restaurant can average around CNY 379, two tickets to the movies can cost CNY 114, and a beer at a neighborhood pub can cost around CNY 16. Entertainment types and costs vary depending on what activity you choose and where.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quality of Life in Shanghai\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai&#8217;s quality of life is reportedly high, with plenty of access to quality healthcare services, low crime rates, and plenty of multicultural activities and entertainment options. However, it can also have its drawbacks, such as hectic rush hours and air pollution.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai was listed as number 109 on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mercer.com\/insights\/total-rewards\/talent-mobility-insights\/quality-of-living-city-ranking\/#:~:text=109,CHINA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2023 Mercer Quality of Living Study.\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low Crime Rates in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai&#8217;s crime rates are relatively low, with few violent crimes committed. The most common crimes are bicycle theft and pickpocketing. With low crime rates, most foreigners feel safe while living in the big city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Access to Quality Healthcare Services in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai has high-quality healthcare facilities accessible to citizens and expats alike, such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.seimc.com.cn\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai East International Medical Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/shanghai.ufh.com.cn\/?lang=en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai United Family Hospital<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.parkwaychina.com\/en\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parkway Health Medical Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and others.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Due to the large number of foreigners living in Shanghai, there are plenty of doctors in the city who speak multiple languages. If you have an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/health-insurance-plans\/international-health-insurance-plan\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">international health insurance policy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you can call your provider to ask for a list of doctors in your network that speak your language.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Activities and Entertainment Options in Shanghai<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats looking for activity and entertainment options in the city can visit sight-seeing spots like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/english.shanghai.gov.cn\/en-ScenicSpots\/20231205\/584672cc6d044eabb5f7f6fc9049a19f.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the Bund<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.yugarden.com.cn\/page\/articleView\/index.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yuyuan Garden<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and walk and shop along Nanjing Road, the world\u2019s longest shopping precinct.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats can also enjoy exhibits at the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shanghaimuseum.net\/mu\/frontend\/pg\/m\/en\/display\/index\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai Museum<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or take a day to explore Disneyland Park and the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shcircusworld.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai Circus World<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shanghai also boasts a variety of delicious restaurants for every taste and budget. Expats who consider themselves \u201cfoodies\u201d will love all the different eateries available in the city, from the delicious <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/guide.michelin.com\/en\/shanghai-municipality\/shanghai\/restaurant\/jardin-de-jade-west-nanjing-road\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jardin de Jade<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the three-Michelin-starred <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/guide.michelin.com\/en\/shanghai-municipality\/shanghai\/restaurant\/ultraviolet-by-paul-pairet\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultraviolet<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by Paul Pairet.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expat Community and Support in Shanghai\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is a strong expat community in Shanghai due to all the foreigners living in the city, and expats can join clubs and organizations to help themselves socialize with other expats. Some of these clubs include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/americanclubshanghai\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Club Shanghai<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britsabroadshanghai.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brits Abroad<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats can also find other expat groups through <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/meetup.com\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meetup.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/internations.org\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internations.org<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support for expats trying to adjust to life in Shanghai can be found at the city\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.communitycentershanghai.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Community Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which runs courses on topics especially relevant to expats. These courses include a cultural orientation, trips to the local markets, and information on Chinese medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They also offer counseling sessions with multilingual counselors and offer workshops for children.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:14915,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:65280},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:255},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;16&quot;:8}\"><div class='code-block code-block-27' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_China_3.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Banner China 3\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Living in Beijing as an Expat\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-14119 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china.webp\" alt=\"Image of Expats Exploring The Forbidden City In Beijing, China with text overlay of &quot;Living in Beijing as an Expat&quot;\" width=\"1300\" height=\"731\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china.webp 1300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china-600x337.webp 600w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/expats-exploring-the-forbidden-city-in-beijing-china-150x84.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1300px) 100vw, 1300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats living in Beijing can expect a slightly lower cost of living than in Shanghai, a rich cultural landscape with plenty of homage to ancient Chinese tradition and a high quality of life and expat support. Beijing offers expats a more historical experience than Shanghai.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the capital of the country, Beijing hosts some of the most fascinating landmarks of China. Expats will enjoy living so close to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/7wonders.org\/asia\/china\/beijing\/forbidden-city\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forbidden City<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and will also value seeing all the historic details weaved into older streets and neighborhoods.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a population of around 21 million people, Beijing is a sprawling metropolis that promises adventure for every expat!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:14915,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:65280},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:255},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;16&quot;:8}\"><div class='code-block code-block-26' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_China_2.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Banner China 2\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Living in Beijing<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cost of living in Beijing is more expensive than in other Chinese cities but is around <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.expatistan.com\/cost-of-living\/comparison\/shanghai\/beijing#google_vignette:~:text=Cost%20of%20living%20in%20Beijing%20(China)%20is%2012%25%20cheaper%20than%20in%20Shanghai%20(China)\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">12%\u00a0 less expensive than in Shanghai<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Between rent, food, and entertainment costs, expats should make sure their budget allows for the average prices in Beijing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We will explore the cost of living across rent, food, and entertainment costs in Beijing. All currency amounts will be listed in Chinese yuan renminbi (CNY).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Renting in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average cost of rent depends on location in the city. The cost of rent for a 900-square-foot apartment in an expensive area can average around CNY 16,084 per month. In a less expensive area, the same size apartment can cost CNY 8,380 per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Utilities in Shanghai for two people in a 900-square-foot apartment average around CNY 377 per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cost of Food in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groceries such as bread, eggs, and chicken breast can cost around CNY 39 on average altogether, while a meal bought from a restaurant or vendor can cost around CNY 34. The amount expats will spend per month on food depends on whether you eat out often or if you choose to cook your meals at home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Entertainment Costs in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A basic dinner at a local restaurant can average around CNY 239, two tickets to the movies can cost CNY 120, and a beer at a neighborhood pub can cost around CNY 10. Entertainment types and costs vary depending on what activity you choose and where.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:14915,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:16776960},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:255},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;16&quot;:8}\"><div class='code-block code-block-28' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_China_4.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Banner China 4\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quality of Life in Beijing\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The quality of life for expats in Beijing is high, with low crime rates, easy access to quality healthcare, and plenty of activities and entertainment options. Some negatives of the city include hectic transportation, hot summers, and air pollution.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing was listed as number 126 on the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mercer.com\/insights\/total-rewards\/talent-mobility-insights\/quality-of-living-city-ranking\/#:~:text=126,CHINA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 2023 Mercer Quality of Life Study.<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low Crime Rates in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many expats report feeling safe in Beijing due to its lower crime rates compared to other large cities. The city has a large presence of police and other security personnel, which helps to deter criminals and keep citizens and foreigners safe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Access to Quality Healthcare Services in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing has plenty of quality healthcare facilities available throughout the city, and expats can even find an international hospital as well. Some of the most recommended hospitals include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/beijing.ufh.com.cn\/?lang=en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing United Family Healthcare Hospital<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/hospital.pku.edu.cn\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Peking University International Hospital<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like Shanghai, Beijing has healthcare professionals who speak more than one language. Call <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/top-international-insurance-beijing.html\">your insurance provider<\/a> to see which provider in your network speaks your language if you are not currently fluent in Chinese.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Activities and Entertainment Options in Beijing<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats in Beijing can enjoy a wide variety of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/beijing-activities-expats.html\">activities in Beijing<\/a>, such as visiting historical landmarks, shopping, hiking, eating out at well-known restaurants, and engaging in cultural events and festivals.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing is home to some of China\u2019s greatest landmarks, such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/national-parks.org\/china\/beijing-great-wall\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Great Wall of China<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the Forbidden City. Expats can enjoy these fantastic sights as well as other more modern parts of the city, that house popular shopping venues like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mybeijingchina.com\/beijing-attractions\/wangfujing-street\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wangfujing Street<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you enjoy dining out, you will love all the restaurants Beijing has to offer. Expats can try international cuisine at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.shangri-la.com\/beijing\/shangrila\/dining\/restaurants\/cafe-cha\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Caf\u00e9 Cha<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or a luxurious take on Chinese cuisine at the Michelin-starred <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/guide.michelin.com\/us\/en\/beijing-municipality\/beijing\/restaurant\/king-s-joy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">King\u2019s Joy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expat Community and Support in Beijing\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats relocating to Beijing can find support through local expat communities such as the International Newcomers\u2019 Network (INN) Beijing. This network was designed to support expats as they adjust to life in Beijing and offers them to opportunity to socialize with other Beijing expats.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also find other Beijing expats through online websites and forums such as <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/internations.org\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Internations.org<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/BeijingExpats\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Facebook group Beijing Expats<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. They can also arrange to meet other expats through websites like <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/meetup.com\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meetup.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-75' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<!--<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-banner_V2_China.png\" alt=\"Insurers recommendation blog banner China v2\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p>-->\n\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import -->\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/css\/m-blog-banner-v2.css?ver5.2' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<style>\n@media (min-width: 1200px) {\n  div.banner-insurers-card-content-v2 ul {\n    margin-top: auto;\n    margin-bottom: auto;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n<!-- Blog Banner Stylesheet Import ends -->\n<!-- Blog Banner China - v2 -->\n<div class=\"banner-insurers-container-v2\">\n  <h3 class=\"banner-insurers-title-v2\">\n      Our Top Insurance Recommendations for China\n  <\/h3>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-v2\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image-v2\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"msh\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\"\n            src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-msh.png\"\n            alt=\"MSH\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content-v2\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>24\/7 Member Support<\/li>\n          <li>Vast Medical Network<\/li>\n          <li>Customizable Benefits<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button-v2 CompareNowbutton chirecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n          Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\">\n    <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-v2\">\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-image-v2\">\n        <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"130\" height=\"130\"\n            src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/img\/logo-cigna.png\"\n            alt=\"Cigna\">\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"banner-insurers-card-content-v2\">\n        <ul>\n          <li>Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)<\/li>\n          <li>Access to Cigna's trusted global network of hospitals and doctors<\/li>\n          <li>4 Core Insurance Plans<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n        <button class=\"banner-insurers-card-button-v2 CompareNowbutton chirecbutton\" onclick=\"window.location.href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog';\">\n          Get a Quote NOW\n        <\/button>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently Asked Questions:\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Shanghai or Beijing more affordable for expats?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing is generally more affordable than Shanghai with Beijing with cheaper food, housing, and entertainment costs. The only category that can be more expensive in Beijing than Shanghai is transportation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which city is better to live in, Beijing or Shanghai?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best city for expats will depend on their preferences and needs. If you have a limited budget, you may prefer Beijing as it is cheaper than Shanghai. If you are looking for a more international experience, you may prefer Shanghai.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What support is available for expats in Shanghai?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats in Shanghai can find support through local expat organizations and the Shanghai Community Center. The Community Center regularly offers short courses on a wide variety of topics related to Shanghai culture and even offers multilingual counselors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\" data-sheets-value=\"{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:&quot;&quot;}\" data-sheets-userformat=\"{&quot;2&quot;:14915,&quot;3&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:0},&quot;4&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:65280},&quot;9&quot;:0,&quot;12&quot;:0,&quot;14&quot;:{&quot;1&quot;:2,&quot;2&quot;:255},&quot;15&quot;:&quot;Arial&quot;,&quot;16&quot;:8}\"><div class='code-block code-block-29' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><button class=\"mo-modal-open\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-4633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Blog-Banner_China_5.jpg\" alt=\"Blog Banner China 5\" width=\"1138\" height=\"493\" \/><\/button><\/p><\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conclusion<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beijing is a better choice for expats looking for a more historical feel with a slightly less expensive cost of living, while Shanghai is the perfect fit for those looking for a more modern and fast-paced lifestyle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When trying to choose between Shanghai and Beijing, expats should consider factors like the cost of living, quality of life, and expat communities available in each city. Through personal research and comparison of the two cities, expats can find the right fit for them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expats in China can protect their health and finances with comprehensive international health insurance plans. The insurance experts at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/contact-us\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pacific Prime<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can help you find the right plan for free! As insurance brokers, we are not tied to one specific insurer and give free, unbiased advice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit our website to begin chatting with us, or to use our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free quote tool<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to begin comparing insurance plans today!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-sheets-root=\"1\"><div class='code-block code-block-73' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<link rel='stylesheet' href='https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/css\/compare-73-new.css?v1.67' type='text\/css' media='all'\/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/compare-quotes\/step-one-name\/?campSource=PP-Blog&utm_campaign=Blog\" class=\"inserter-73-link CompareNowbutton\">\n  <div class=\"inserter-73-new\">\n    <div class=\"inserter-left-box\">\n        <h3>Kickstart Your Search for the Perfect Insurer<\/h3>        \n        <div class=\"inserter-compare-box\">\n            <p>Compare over <br>50,000 Plans <br>from Top Insurers<\/p>\n            <button >Compare NOW<\/button>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    \n    \n    <div class=\"inserter-img-box\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/readable-child\/blog-banner\/compare-box\/img\/mobile.png\" alt=\" \" class=\"banner-img-mobile\">            \n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/a>\n\n<style>\n\n.inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {right: -31%;}\n@media (max-width: 1199px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    right: -20px;\n  }\n@media (max-width: 991px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    right: -10px;\n  }\n}\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    height: auto;\n    width: 30%;\n  }\n}\n@media (max-width: 512px) {\n  .inserter-73-new .inserter-img-box amp-img {\n    height: 200px;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Expats choosing between Shanghai and Beijing will find that the best city for them depends on their preferences for cost of living, quality of life, and local expat communities. Beijing is less expensive than Shanghai, but Shanghai offers a more international population.\u00a0 Both cities are popular with expats living in China and have different things &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":14117,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1713],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14116","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-expat-insurance"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Is Shanghai or Beijing Better for Expat Living?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Compare the cost of living, job opportunities, and 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