How Much Does It Cost to Live In Suzhou?
Suzhou is the ideal city for those who are looking for high salaries and cheaper prices in the city that is both beautiful and affordable.
What differs it from other major cities such as Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing is the fact that it is not as fast paced and you can enjoy less stressful and less hasty life, having the luxury to save some money.
Taking all the costs of living into account, Suzhou is one of the better places to live in China.
China : Cost of Living by City
RESTAURANTS
According to your budget, there are the places you should consider visiting and the places you should avoid, when it comes to restaurants.
Local food is inexpensive and can be found everywhere, while international food will need to be paid quite more in those posh restaurants.
MARKETS
There is a difference in prices among stores and you should know that imported groceries are more expensive, and sometimes cannot be found.
Domestic products and fruit and vegetables should be purchased at discounted prices or at local markets so as to lower your food expenses.
TRANSPORTATION
Some people would feel that it would be exhausting to walk or ride a bike in Suzhou, but that is a frequent means of transport here.
It is inexpensive to use the public transport system, as you can travel the whole month after paying only $11.
UTILITIES (MONTHLY)
The price of utilities depends on how much you use, but generally speaking, it is more than affordable.
Bearing in mind the fact that in some Canadian countries only the Internet access is paid $60, here in Suzhou, all the basic services turn out to be that much.
SPORTS & LEISURE
The slower pace here might affect more people doing physical activities and sports.
Renting a tennis court is quite affordable when compared to some other cities, while fitness club fee is pretty expensive.
When it comes to cinemas, tickets are inexpensive which would be great for movie lovers.
CLOTHING & SHOES
If you are interested in shopping for clothes, you will be surprised with what this city could offer to you and the prices of it.
Actually, even the designer clothing can be found at reasonable prices in branded stores, and not to speak about low-cost apparel.
RENT PER MONTH
After having a look around Suzhou in search for the appropriate apartment, you should know that the closer to the city center, the more expensive rent will be.
All in all, the rent is not too expensive here and can be afforded by the majority of employed people.
Cost of Living Averages Table for Suzhou
*Note: All prices are indicated in USD.| Average Restaurant Prices | |
|---|---|
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $3.73 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 Liter) | $1.34 |
| Water (0.33 Liter) | $0.36 | Average Market Prices |
| Milk (1 Liter) | $6.93 |
| Loaf Bread (500g) | $1.56 |
| Eggs (12) | $2 | Average Transport Prices |
| One Way Ticket | $0.30 |
| Monthly Pass | $11.18 |
| Gasoline | $3.81 | Average Utilities Prices |
| Basic (Water, Electricity, Garbage, Heating, Cooling) | $57.56 |
| 1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local | $0.02 |
| Internet (Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $13.09 | Average Leisure Prices |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $42.44 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour) | $7.45 |
| Cinema, 1 Seat, International Release | $5.22 | Average Clothing Prices |
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Comparable) | $33.54 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, etc...) | $36.52 |
| 1 Pair of Adidas Walking Shoes (Mid-Range) | $69.21 | Average Rent Prices |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | $468.75 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Center | $308.79 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | $883.78 |
How Does the Average Person Spend Their Money in Suzhou?
Make sure to do some research so as to know how is life there for either a single person or a family, and to prepare yourself for the expenses that awaits you there.
According to the low utilities prices, only small amount of your budget is spent on them, and it is equal to the amount spent on clothing.
The identical sum of money goes for restaurants and transportation, while the most is given for food.
Even though rent is not too expensive, it will take the third of your monthly salary.
Average Costs Breakdown
Suzhou: Average Salary, Minimum Wage & Mortgages
The average monthly income here is not so high when compared to some other big cities in China, but it is estimated to be enough for a decent living.
If you possess your house, living with the average salary would be more than affordable and you will be able to put some money aside.
However, those with the minimum wages would not be able to pay for the rent, and not to mention food and bills.
It is good idea to first get familiar with all this data and then decide whether to move or not.
Cost of Living by City in Suzhou
| City | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|
| Beijing | 43.88 |
| Chengdu | 36.16 |
| Guangzhou | 40.29 |
| Shanghai | 50.41 |
| Shenzhen | 42.21 |
