Tongji University

Year 2025 Cost of Living in China: What International Students Should Expect Living in China When I first got accepted into Tongji University in Shanghai, I was over the moon. I had always dreamed of studying in China — not just for the academic experience but for the culture, the food, and the chance to live in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. However, one thing I didn’t fully understand until I arrived was the cost of living. Sure, I had read articles and watched YouTube videos, but nothing beats the reality of managing your own budget in a foreign country. If you’re planning to study in China, especially in cities like Shanghai, Beijing, or Guangzhou, it’s crucial to know what your monthly expenses might look like. Below is a breakdown of what I actually spend each month as a student in Shanghai, with comparisons to Beijing and Guangzhou based on conversations with friends in those cities. 1. Cost of Living in China: Rent and Housing Let’s start with the biggest chunk of monthly expenses: rent. Shanghai: I currently live in a shared apartment in the Yangpu District, pretty close to my university (Tongji University). I share it with…