Cost of Living in Guangzhou

Historic trading port and culinary capital; offers a lower cost of living than Shenzhen with excellent transport.
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£890

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
55%
Groceries
21%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
2%
Utilities
7%
Leisure
8%
Property
55%
Groceries
21%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
2%
Utilities
7%
Leisure
8%

Dim sum & Cantonese traditions

Warm subtropical climate

Trading hub; dynamic & wealthy

Cost of living breakdown for Guangzhou

Living costs in Guangzhou can vary. You can expect to spend around £890 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

£442Average rent per month in Guangzhou
£6,572Price per m² (city centre)
£2,548Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index26
Quality of life index66
Safety index78
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Guangzhou average costs for food and drink.

£169Monthly groceries/person
£58Dining out average cost/person
£2Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Guangzhou average salaries and services.

£1,002Average Monthly Net Salary in Guangzhou
£15Transport
Healthcare67
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Guangzhou

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£441.59£270.25 - £648.60
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£200.49£108.10 - £337.27
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£963.44£648.60 - £1,686.36
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£406.05£270.25 - £674.55

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Guangzhou depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs £449 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £1,637. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £442 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Guangzhou costs £0.32. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £15.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Guangzhou is currently £1,002.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Guangzhou costs approximately £2, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £22.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Guangzhou for a single person is £449, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Guangzhou, the estimated monthly costs are £1,637, not including rent.

Rent prices in Guangzhou depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is £442, compared to £200 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £963 in the centre and £406 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Guangzhou (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £42 per month. Internet access typically adds another £11.