Shanghai vs. Beijing: which city is better?

Do you want to eventually make China your permanent home? What's more confusing, Beijing or Shanghai? To what extent does each of these options help you find gainful employment and a comfortable standard of living?

There has been much back and forth regarding whether Shanghai or Beijing is the superior metropolis. Both cities have a vibrant nightlife and many clubs reflected in their skylines. However, we have outlined the key distinctions between the two in this essay. We have compiled the evidence you may use to end the debate.

Pollution in Shanghai contrasted. Beijing

Beijing has long been known for its notorious air pollution, however this problem has been solved. The capital's dust and pollution levels have returned to normal, according to measurements. More and more clear skies are now a year-round possibility in the city. The economic center of China, Shanghai, is now experiencing record levels of air pollution.

Beijing residents still have little choice but to remain indoors throughout the winter months due to the pollution, even if the situation has improved. However, daily life in Shanghai was very ordinary. There are now more polluted days in Shanghai, and the city often experiences pollution with an AQI of above 200.

Keep an eye on the pollution levels in both cities if you have respiratory issues.

Differences between former Beijingers and former Shanghaiites

The expatriates, now settled in their new locations, showcase the distinct personalities of each location.

Quite fluent in Chinese: Mandarin Chinese proficiency is higher among Beijing expats than among Shanghai expats. The reason for this is because most expats who settle in Beijing have already learned the language, and it is very difficult to integrate into Beijing society without a firm grasp of the native language. The residents of Shanghai, on the other hand, speak English well and can help those who don't know the language feel at home.

Expats in Shanghai have an obvious superiority complex due to the abundance of resources available to them in this booming industrial center. However, some who have left Beijing for good say that the city is dirty and lacks possibilities.

Integration: Expats in Beijing seldom integrate into local society. On the other hand, Shanghai expats are known for their friendliness and eagerness to learn about other cultures.

Opportunities for employment in Shanghai vs Beijing

Jobs in banking, insurance, and other financial institutions abound in Shanghai because of the city's status as an economic hub. Shanghai is where you can find more chances in the consulting and financial sectors.

People who are enthusiastic about the city's cultural scene, foreign press, and homegrown artistic expression are in high demand in Beijing. Healthcare experts often find work in the city.

Traveling to Shanghai vs. Beijing

Shanghai has much more ties to the rest of Asia than Beijing does. Shanghai, situated in southern China, is more often served by planes due to the shorter travel time to and from the city. As a result of the continent's vast distances, flights departing from Beijing may be rather pricey. Even more so during major festivals and other cultural celebrations.

The ideal way to see other Chinese cities like Xi'an, Luoyang, and Harbin is to fly into Beijing, the country's capital, and then take public transportation or taxis to your final destination.

Shanghai's low cost of living compared to Beijing's high

The similarity in cost of living is a major plus for both cities. The difference between the minimum and average earnings in Shanghai and Beijing is nothing. Some expats in Shanghai, however, claim to be earning six figures thanks to the city's economic preeminence.

In an international setting, entry-level pay begin at 12000 RMB per month, while senior personnel may expect monthly offers of about 50000 RMB.

Prices for both mortgages and rent are comparable. Typically, the cost of a two-bedroom apartment in China is between 2500 and 3500 RMB per month (the prices vary depending upon the location). Whereas Shanghai was formerly the most costly city in the world, the city's recent economic boom has made it rather cheap to keep up a comfortable standard of life.