Blending ancient history with modern urban life, Beijing is one of the fastest-growing cities in Asia. While it has become more expensive recently, it remains more affordable than many other Western and Asian cities.
How much you spend living in Beijing depends on your lifestyle. You can splurge on expensive items and meals or keep it budget-friendly. It’s all about knowing what things should generally cost.
Let’s break down what living in Beijing is really like, focusing on rent, food, and daily expenses to help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
People are often curious about how an American, without Mandarin skills, could live in Beijing for a year. They then ask about cultural differences and the cost of living.
Why live in Beijing? This lively city offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences. You can spend time in serene parks or bustling cities, appreciate historic temples, or enjoy shopping and dining. Beijing has plenty to keep you entertained.
Job opportunities for expats abound, especially with international companies setting up offices in Beijing. Whether it’s tech, finance, or hospitality, there is a demand for English speakers. Teaching English is also very popular, as many locals aspire to learn from native speakers.
For digital nomads, Beijing provides a variety of co-working spaces. However, learning a bit of Mandarin can be beneficial for both cultural appreciation and job opportunities within Chinese companies.
Post-2008 Olympics, Beijing has seen a surge in tourism and foreign expats, making it a diverse city. The city mixes traditional culture with modern urbanization, evident in its historic sites and skyscrapers.
The public transportation system in Beijing is extensive and affordable, offering subways, buses, taxis, and more. But with over 21 million residents, be prepared for crowded commutes. However, the city remains accessible despite the congestion.
Beijing is very safe, even for solo female travelers. Serious crime is rare, although petty theft can occur. Take precautions like keeping valuables at home and being aware of your surroundings.
When it comes to food, Beijing offers an array of delicious options from gourmet dining to street food. Unlike typical Chinese food abroad, the local cuisine is unique and varied. Local street carts provide cheap and tasty meals.
The cost of living in Beijing can vary. Rent is the biggest expense and can be high compared to the local income, but manageable on a Western salary. Sharing accommodation or living outside the city center can help reduce costs.
Food costs depend on your dining choices. High-end restaurants are pricey, but local eateries offer affordable options. Cooking at home can save even more money, with grocery stores and local markets providing various shopping options.
Utilities in Beijing are cheaper than in many Western countries. Electricity, usually prepaid, costs around $30-40 USD per month. Gas and water are additional minor expenses.
Getting around Beijing might be confusing initially, but public transportation is cheap. Spending about $30 USD a week on transportation is reasonable. Taxis are also relatively inexpensive.
Entertainment in Beijing is affordable, with numerous options for enjoying the social and cultural aspects of the city. However, it’s easy to overspend if you’re not careful, so budgeting is important.
Living in Beijing can be an exciting experience but be prepared for cultural adjustments. Non-Asians might attract some stares out of curiosity.
Public bathrooms can be lacking in amenities, so carrying your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer is necessary. Censorship is also something to consider, with restricted access to many foreign websites. Using a VPN can help navigate this issue.
Mandarin is the primary language, and knowing some basic phrases can be very helpful. Bargaining is common in markets and can save you money, but it’s not appropriate in grocery stores.
Living in Beijing can be affordable and enriching with the right mindset and budgeting. Whether you spend a little or a lot, Beijing offers a unique living experience. I loved my time there, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. If you move to Beijing, you’ll understand why.