The Cost of Living in Cixi, China

Cixi is a small city located in the eastern coast of China, about 50 kilometers away from the city of Hangzhou. With a population of over 1.5 million people, it is considered a relatively peaceful and affordable place to live, especially when compared to the neighboring cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou. In this blog post, we will explore the cost of living in Cixi, including housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other relevant factors.

Housing

The cost of housing in Cixi largely depends on the location and the type of accommodation. As a general rule, the closer to the city center or to the coast, the higher the prices. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 2,500 RMB (or $360) per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center can be around 1,500 RMB (or $215) per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 6,500 RMB (or $935) per month, while a similar apartment outside the city center can be around 4,000 RMB (or $575) per month. It’s also worth noting that many apartments are already furnished, so you may not need to buy much furniture or appliances.

Food

The cost of food in Cixi is generally affordable, especially if you stick to local markets and street vendors. A meal in an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 15-20 RMB (or $2-3), while a meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost around 50-70 RMB (or $7-10). If you prefer cooking at home, groceries are also relatively cheap, with a pound of rice costing around 3 RMB (or $0.45) and a pound of chicken costing around 20-25 RMB (or $3-4).

Transportation

The cost of transportation in Cixi is also quite reasonable, with several options available depending on your needs. A one-way ticket on the local bus costs around 2 RMB (or $0.30), while a taxi ride starts at 8 RMB (or $1.15) for the first kilometer and then 2.5 RMB (or $0.35) for each additional kilometer. If you prefer cycling, you can also rent a bike for around 10 RMB (or $1.50) per hour or 60 RMB (or $9) per month.

Healthcare

The cost of healthcare in Cixi is relatively low compared to other cities in China, but it’s important to note that the quality of care may vary depending on the hospital or clinic you choose. A basic doctor’s visit can cost around 30-50 RMB (or $4-7), while a more specialized consultation can cost around 100-200 RMB (or $14-29). If you need prescription medication, prices can range from 10-50 RMB (or $1.50-7) per pill, depending on the type and dosage.

Other Expenses

Other expenses you may encounter while living in Cixi include utilities, entertainment, and education. Utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet can cost around 600-800 RMB (or $86-115) per month for a small apartment. Entertainment options include cinemas, parks, and shopping malls, with tickets and entry fees ranging from 20-100 RMB (or $3-14) depending on the activity. For education, Cixi has several public and private schools, with tuition fees ranging from 5,000-20,000 RMB (or $720-2,875) per year for primary and secondary schools, and 20,000-50,000 RMB (or $2,875-7,165) per year for universities.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of living in Cixi is generally affordable, especially when compared to other large cities in China. The cost of housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other expenses are all relatively low, although they may vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. Living in Cixi can be a great option for those who want to experience life in China without breaking the bank.

If you have any additional questions or comments, feel free to leave them below!

The Insider’s Guide to Cixi, China: Beyond the Cost of Living

Cixi is a city in the Zhejiang Province of China, known for its manufacturing industry and low cost of living. However, this city has much more to offer than just affordability. As a local, I will guide you through Cixi’s lesser-known gems and unique experiences that will make your trip memorable.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

One place you must visit in Cixi is the Guanhaiwei Wetland Park, a serene oasis where you can indulge in nature walks and bird-watching. Another hidden gem is the Yinxian pagoda, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is an elegant example of ancient Chinese architecture. If you are interested in history, do not miss the Fenghua Stone Village, where ancient stone houses still stand strong.

Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Cixi’s food culture is a blend of the Yangtze River delta and the Sea. You cannot visit Cixi without trying the local fresh seafood, such as shrimp, crab, and fish. Try the boiled shrimp at Xinghua Lou or the spicy Sichuan-style crab at Lu Ge Restaurant. Also, you must taste the traditional Cixi pastry, Chixi Cake, made of glutinous rice and sweet red bean paste, at the local street markets.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Traditions

Cixi is famous for its Chinese Shadow Play, a traditional form of puppetry. Catch a performance at the Museum of Shadow Play Culture and witness the magical art come to life. You can also experience a traditional tea ceremony at the Taibai Grace Hotel, where local tea experts will guide you in savoring the tea’s texture, scent, and flavor.

Local History: Uncovering Captivating Stories

Cixi has a rich history, and one of the fascinating stories is about the “flying general” – Yue Fei. He was a brave warrior who fought for the Southern Song dynasty and was betrayed by his own subordinates. Learn about his life and legacy at the Yuewang Temple, built-in his honor. Another intriguing historical site is the Tangfeng War History Museum, where you can see the relics of the Sino-Japanese war.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unforgettable Adventures

If you are looking for a unique experience, try fishing with the local fishermen at Xiangshan Fishing Village, a traditional fishing town that has retained its charm over the centuries. You can also take a hike to the Langshan Mountain, where you can witness the breathtaking scenery of the mountain and the city.

In conclusion, Cixi has much to offer for a memorable trip that goes beyond the cost of living. Discover hidden gems, savor local cuisine, embrace traditions, uncover captivating stories, and embark on unforgettable adventures as you explore this lesser-known Chinese city.