How Much Does It Cost to Live In Guangzhou?
When considering moving to a foreign country, many people dream of going to China, as it is one of the favorite countries among migrants.
The reason for this might be the vibrant culture, beautiful countryside or the cost of living that is much cheaper than you can imagine.
If you are not eager to settle in some of the most bustling cities of China but still want to experience the crowds, then ideal solution can be Guangzhou, a port city full of sights and attractions.
China : Cost of Living by City
RESTAURANTS
Everyone is attracted by the Chinese cuisine and wants to try it once being there.
This food cannot be prepared at home as it is done at the restaurant and Guangzhou has a wide range of regional cuisines offering delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
Chinese people eat out frequently and spend quite a lot of monthly budget there.
MARKETS
As in any other city, eating local food which you prepare by yourself and buying products from the Chinese markets would leave you with more money in the pockets than frequently eating at the restaurants.
Food is the most important and the greatest spending in Guangzhou.
TRANSPORTATION
When the transportation is in question, you do not have to worry as Guangzhou has excellent, yet inexpensive public transport system.
You can either choose to commute by bicycle, but only after you get familiar with the city.
When it comes to driving, newcomers are not advised to try it here.
UTILITIES (MONTHLY)
Guangzhou offers excellent utilities’ prices, even though they are slightly higher than in some other cities.
You will be able to provide for all the bills, even though you are not earning a huge wage.
That is why the least money is spent on services.
SPORTS & LEISURE
Young people often want to entertain with friends and colleagues and this can cost quite a lot in Guangzhou.
Unlike some smaller cities in China, working out at the fitness club or practicing tennis would cost you quite an amount of money, as leisure activities are not that affordable here.
CLOTHING & SHOES
The price of clothing is very affordable in China, if you do not mind buying low-cost apparel.
If you are used to buying designer clothing items, then Guangzhou might not be ideal place, as branded clothes are quite pricey and not affordable for those who are earning less than the average income.
RENT PER MONTH
Besides the cheap utilities prices that Chinese cities have to offer, there are cheaper housing prices as well, being that you are able to rent a one bedroom apartment for $300 per month.
However, Guangzhou is not among the most inexpensive ones, but it is still more affordable than Beijing.
Cost of Living Averages Table for Guangzhou
*Note: All prices are indicated in USD.| Average Restaurant Prices | |
|---|---|
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $2.98 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 Liter) | $0.89 |
| Water (0.33 Liter) | $0.29 | Average Market Prices |
| Milk (1 Liter) | $7.24 |
| Loaf Bread (500g) | $1.22 |
| Eggs (12) | $1.41 | Average Transport Prices |
| One Way Ticket | $0.30 |
| Monthly Pass | $26.83 |
| Gasoline | $4.11 | Average Utilities Prices |
| Basic (Water, Electricity, Garbage, Heating, Cooling) | $56.66 |
| 1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local | $0.03 |
| Internet (Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $18.83 | Average Leisure Prices |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $36.09 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour) | $12.82 |
| Cinema, 1 Seat, International Release | $7.45 | Average Clothing Prices |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Comparable) | $51.84 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, etc...) | $33.46 |
| 1 Pair of Adidas Walking Shoes (Mid-Range) | $83.04 | Average Rent Prices |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | $547.84 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Center | $305.60 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | $1157.08 |
How Does the Average Person Spend Their Money in Guangzhou?
It is interesting to notice that Chinese people pay much attention to spend the quality leisure time and this affects newcomers to wish to experience China’s incredible ways of entertainment.
The usual spendings data proves the fact that the least money is given for utilities and clothing, while the most of the budget is spent on food.
Even though, the rent is more expensive in Guangzhou, it is not the greatest monthly expense.
Transportation is inexpensive, thus not much money is given for that.
Average Costs Breakdown
Guangzhou: Average Salary, Minimum Wage & Mortgages
What needs to be included in your research before you go anywhere in the world is the comparison between the minimum and average salary, which can help make a deal about your future salary and organize your own budget according to your spending habits.
That way you will know exactly what you can expect and whether it is worth moving.
Those with the average salaries are earning enough for a decent living, considering the fact that they do not pay the rent.
Otherwise, it will be difficult to manage all the bills.
Guangzhou Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Guangzhou Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Cost of Living by City in Guangzhou
| City | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|
| Beijing | 43.88 |
| Chengdu | 36.16 |
| Shanghai | 50.41 |
| Shenzhen | 42.21 |
| Suzhou | 37.95 |
