Expats in Beijing

Beijing is not only a major financial center of the globe, but also one of the busiest and oldest cities on the planet. Temples that are over a thousand years old may be seen in Beijing side by side with towering glass skyscrapers, demonstrating the city's ability to bridge the gap between ancient Chinese culture and the contemporary economic might of China. All of this, in addition to the city's pollution and congestion issues, as well as the typical challenges one faces when being introduced to a new culture, can be intimidating for new arrivals; however, the expat community in Beijing is a large one, yet it is also a community that is very close-knit.

Many newly arrived expatriates in Beijing first find it challenging to adjust to the local way of life, particularly with regard to the language and culture. The city is densely populated, huge, and can be rather chaotic at times, but if you get beyond all of that, you'll discover a fully thrilling global metropolis.

Housing

Upon arriving, the most pressing issue, of course, is acquiring the essentials, such as food and a place to sleep; yet, this was the second obstacle at which my preconceived notions were disproved. I saw myself living in a magnificent mansion with a courtyard, where wind chimes would play softly in the background as I floated in and out of the house wearing Chinese silks. It is feasible to do this, but only if you have a really hardy constitution and are able to withstand the very cold temperatures in the winter and the extremely high temperatures in the summer. Air conditioning and heating systems that can be relied on are not often found in older, more traditional courtyard homes.

How much does it cost each month to live in Beijing?

When compared to the prices in many other smaller cities and notably more rural areas in China, Beijing's prices might be considered to be quite expensive.

Nevertheless, if circumstances need it, one may make do with less money.

Meals may be had for as little as three to four dollars, which can get you a pretty decent lunch consisting of noodles, tofu, or dumplings.

The cuisine in China is incredible, and you may find that it tastes quite different from the Chinese food you're accustomed to eating back at home.

But if you want to eat Western cuisine, you should prepare yourself for rates that are more Western-style. This is also true for alcoholic beverages. Beer and alcohol purchased in China are available at relatively low prices, although the cost of imported items is much higher. You should expect to spend anywhere from 3,500 to 6,000 yen ($650 to $950) a month for a good place to live in the city, but the price might vary greatly depending on where you live and the size of the apartment. In point of fact, when compared to the majority of capital cities throughout the globe, Beijing is not anywhere close to being one of the most costly.

Is it a costly endeavor to make a living in Beijing?

The cost of living in Beijing is very low when compared to the cost of living in many other capital cities throughout the globe; but, when compared to the cost of living in other Chinese cities, Beijing is much more costly.

Is it risky to reside in Beijing at this time?

China is among the more secure nations in which you might choose to establish a presence.

In spite of the high number of people, the residents of the area are, on the most, quite hospitable, though not sometimes inquisitive.

There is a very low incidence of crime, and you should have few if any problems going home even when it is dark outside.