What is the cost of living in China?
Although it is true that the cost of living in China is increasing, it is still far lower than what we are accustomed to in the West. There is no foreign country with equal prices to even the most costly Tier 1 cities in the United States. Because of this, plus the high incomes, non-natives may experience a rich and diverse culture that would be beyond of their financial reach at home.Moving to a less populated area can help you save even more money on housing. While moving to a Tier 3 city may reduce your monthly take-home salary by a noticeable amount, the drastically reduced cost of living will more than make up for it the next month.
Chinese citizens are also benefiting from the country's economic growth. China has helped more people escape poverty in the past 40 years than any other nation in history (800 million and counting). The standard of living enjoyed by the typical Chinese person much exceeds that of people in any other country, the West included. All Chinese citizens are enjoying a high standard of life that is only rising.
You may be wondering, "So, what exactly is it that makes living in China so great?"
Then how about unmatched transportation and world-class facilities? With the proliferation of new airports and the advent of high-speed rail, getting around is easier and less expensive than ever before. You may even hire a vehicle and go on a tour of your region if you're feeling adventurous! As long as you can manage the anxiety of leaving the city, it's a cheap, entertaining, and invigorating way to spend a day.
Furthermore, the expat community is sizable, particularly in large urban centers. It's easy to find a social group that shares your passion for anything like sports, arts, culture, or travel (and every other side gig imaginable). One of the best ways to get the most out of your time in China is to make friends with other foreigners who are also adjusting to life in China. The truth is that many of us have become much more outgoing and friendly since arriving in China.
Most importantly, we can afford to be.
The modern feel of China often surprises those who have never been there before. The big cities provide everything you could possibly need. Imported pleasures like cheese and wine are accessible, but they can set you back a significant sum of money.
There is a wide variety of possibilities for spending money, despite the fact that the cost of living is rising in China. Indulgent delicacies from Carrefour, many daily cab journeys, and a central penthouse are all perfectly reasonable ways to spend a super-high income.
However, a beautiful flat can be had only 10 minutes away for 50% less money. For the same price as a dinner at a chain restaurant in the United States, you may eat at one of the many wonderful restaurants in your area.
The quality of life you choose in China may make (or break) your budget in ways you won't find anywhere else. Almost anyplace in China, you can get by well on less than US$1,000 per month. Then there will always be space in the budget for some splurging.
Find out how much teachers in China spend on average to live, which is a reasonable estimate for any foreigner in China, and learn about the many ways to save costs while you're ther