Shanghai: Cost of Living Overview (2025)

When I began researching in preparation for the ‘big move’ from Stellenbosch, South Africa to Shanghai, many money-related questions came to mind. What is the average rent? How much will my daily commute cost? What are the average prices of household essentials? Will I be able to live comfortably? Will I be able to save?

Before relocating to Shanghai, it certainly helps to have a clear idea of the cost of living. In this blog post, I’ll be discussing how the living costs in Shanghai broadly compare to those in South Africa, based on my personal experience.

Most teachers either live in a shared apartment (with their own room) or a studio apartment. It is quite common for English teachers to share an apartment, as this is more cost-effective, with prices starting from around 3,500–4,500 RMB (± 7,500–9,600 ZAR, 500–650 USD) per month. A studio apartment is generally more expensive, typically starting from about 4,500 RMB per month (± 9,600 ZAR, 650 USD). Rent in Shanghai is comparable to that in Cape Town and is generally higher than in most other parts of South Africa. On the upside, most apartments in Shanghai come furnished, which helps to minimise initial start-up costs.

Tap water and electricity are billed separately from your rent. Tap water is very inexpensive, while electricity costs roughly the same as in South Africa. Drinking water prices vary depending on the brand, but a 4-litre bottle typically costs around 10 RMB (± 20 ZAR, 2 USD).

Mobile data is incredibly cheap in Shanghai. Topping up data on my phone costs about 45 RMB (± 90 ZAR, 7 USD) for 2GB. Since most places offer WiFi, you’ll likely spend very little on mobile data each month.

Groceries frequently used in Chinese cooking — such as tofu, noodles, rice, and soy sauce — are inexpensive. Certain fruits like dragon fruit, pomegranates, and Asian pears are much cheaper in Shanghai, whereas apples and plums tend to be more expensive compared to South African prices. Vegetables generally cost about the same, though they can be slightly cheaper if purchased from a market or street stall. Western ingredients such as cheese, coffee, olive oil, and wine are almost twice the price. Meat is also somewhat more expensive in Shanghai. Naturally, if you mainly buy Chinese ingredients and locally grown produce, you can easily prepare low-cost meals. However, if you try to replicate dishes from home using Western ingredients, it will cost significantly more than it would in South Africa.

Chinese cleaning products tend to be cheaper, but international brands like Mr Muscle and Ariel washing powder are more expensive.

Personal hygiene products from Chinese brands can range from very cheap to quite expensive. If you prefer the brands you’re used to from home — such as Dove, L’Oréal, Head & Shoulders, and NIVEA — expect to pay nearly double for the same items in Shanghai.

Utensils can be very affordable depending on where you buy them, both in physical stores like Miniso and online via Taobao (a popular shopping app).

Going out for a meal and drinks varies in price depending on whether you opt for Chinese cuisine or food from home. Generally, Chinese meals cost from around 18 RMB (± 36 ZAR, 3 USD), with a local beer priced at about 10 RMB (± 20 ZAR, 2 USD). International meals are more expensive, typically starting at 30 RMB (± 60 ZAR, 5 USD). A glass of wine starts at roughly 40 RMB (± 80 ZAR, 6 USD), while international beers usually cost around 35 RMB (± 70 ZAR, 5 USD). That said, you can enjoy a good Chinese dish for slightly less than you would pay in South Africa. However, if you choose a Western-style meal, expect to pay more than you would back home.

Street food is not very popular in South Africa, but it is widespread in Shanghai and frequently enjoyed by both locals and internationals. Jian Bing, also known as Chinese crepes, start from around 5 RMB (± 10 ZAR). Baozi, steamed filled buns, cost about 3 RMB (± 6 ZAR, 1 USD), and fried dumplings are typically 9 RMB (± 18 ZAR, 3 USD) for four pieces. These snacks are delicious and kinder to your wallet.

Movie prices vary depending on where you buy your ticket (online or at the cinema) and the cinema itself — grander venues charge more. Prices generally range from 40 to 80 RMB (± 80–160 ZAR, 6–12 USD), roughly equivalent to cinema tickets in South Africa.

Tickets for concerts and events tend to be more expensive in Shanghai.