Housing & Rentals for Foreigners in China: Complete Guide (2025–2026)
Stay2CN Guide | Long-Term Living — Housing & Rentals | Updated May 2026Finding a place to live in China can be tricky for foreigners. Here's everything you need to know to avoid scams and find your perfect home.
Where to Search
Platforms that work for foreigners:
• Ziroom (自如): Popular but Chinese-only; serviced apartments
• Wellcee: English-friendly; roommate matching
• SmartShanghai / TheBeijinger: City-specific listings
• Facebook groups: Expat housing groups
• WeChat groups: Ask in expat communities
Types of Housing
Shared Apartment (合租): ¥2,000–4,000/month. Common for young professionals.
Studio/1-BR (整租): ¥3,500–8,000/month depending on city.
Serviced Apartment: ¥6,000–15,000/month. Includes cleaning, utilities, gym.
Villa: ¥15,000+/month. For families or high budgets.
Rental Costs by City (Monthly, 1-BR in decent area)
• Shanghai: ¥5,000–10,000
• Beijing: ¥4,500–9,000
• Shenzhen: ¥4,000–8,000
• Guangzhou: ¥3,000–6,000
• Chengdu: ¥2,000–4,000
Contract & Deposit
• Standard deposit: 1–2 months' rent
• Payment: Usually 3 months upfront + deposit (付三押一)
• Lease term: Typically 1 year
• Registration: Landlord must register you with police (normal)
• Get a receipt (发票) for every payment
Red Flags & Scams
❌ Landlord refuses to show property ownership certificate
❌ Asks for deposit before showing the apartment
❌ No written contract
❌ Pressure to pay everything in cash without receipt
❌ Move-out inspections that nitpick every tiny scratch
Move-Out Tips
• Document apartment condition with photos on move-in day
• Read contract carefully — some landlords deduct "cleaning fees"
• Give 1-month notice as per contract
• If disputes arise, contact local housing authority
Foreigner-Friendly Neighborhoods
• Shanghai: Former French Concession, Jing'an, Gubei
• Beijing: Sanlitun, Chaoyang Park, Shunyi
• Shenzhen: Shekou, OCT, Nanshan
Looking for a place? Share your city and budget below!
Page:
[1]