Cost of Living in Beijing: Living Expenses in 2026
Have you ever stood beneath Beijing’s towering skyscrapers and wondered: what is the cost of living in Beijing?
In this blog, we’ll explore how much money you need to cover living expenses in Beijing to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Cost of Living in Beijing
Beijing is not just China’s capital, but also a hub for business and culture. The pace is fast, and so is the rise in living expenses.
The cost of living in Beijing can vary depending on where you live, what you eat, and how you spend your free time.
Housing in Beijing, China
Rent is one of the biggest living expenses in Beijing.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas like Chaoyang or Dongcheng is between 8,000 to 15,000 yuan per month.
Further out of the central area, in areas like Tongzhou or Changping, rent can drop to 4,000 to 7,000 yuan.
For families, they often ask, “how much is a 3 bedroom house in China?” In Beijing, the price for a 3-bedroom home can range from 15,000 to 30,000 yuan, depending on the area.
The difference in rent isn’t just about distance and size; it’s also about nearby facilities and the environment. When considering housing in Beijing, it’s important to decide what area fits your needs and budget.
Daily Expenses
Other living expenses include food, transportation, and entertainment.
A simple meal from a takeout place costs about 30 to 50 yuan, and dining at a mid-range restaurant costs 100 to 200 yuan per person.
When it comes to groceries, things like imported goods are more expensive in Beijing compared to other cities.
Transportation is also a key cost.
While Beijing’s subway is affordable (from 3 to 9 yuan per ride), taxis start from 14 yuan and can add up quickly if used often.
The cost of living also includes entertainment, such as going to the movies, which usually costs 40 to 80 yuan. If you want to attend a concert, it can cost several hundred yuan, depending on the event.
House Prices in Beijing
For those looking to buy property, house prices in Beijing are sky-high.
Depending on the district, a simple apartment can cost 3 – 4 million yuan. This makes home ownership out of reach for many people living in Beijing.
However, some expats or locals with higher incomes choose to buy instead of rent, but they need to plan carefully.
Conclusion
Living in Beijing is about more than just numbers and income. It’s about how you manage your budget and lifestyle.
The high cost of living in Beijing doesn’t mean you can’t live a good life—it just means finding the right balance for you.
No matter your income, you can find ways to enjoy life in Beijing. From exploring museums to attending local events, there are many things to do. Even though the cost of living in Beijing is high, residents find ways to balance their income with their lifestyle.
If you’re thinking about studying or living in Beijing, Apply For China is here to help you navigate the application process and make your study abroad journey smoother! Contact us today!
