Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 89)
Jiaxing sits in the subtropical climate zone of China's eastern lowlands, at an elevation of 10 meters above sea level, with a population of 1.5 million. The city's expat community is small, and English proficiency is limited, but those who settle here tend to choose the Nanhu and Xiuzhou neighborhoods. The climate brings distinct seasons, and the city's position in the Asia/Shanghai timezone keeps it aligned with major regional business hubs.
Living costs here are remarkably low against local wages. A single adult's budget tier total, including rent, comes to $296/mo, while the mid-range tier runs $440/mo and the comfortable tier $590/mo. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for $283/mo, and outside the centre it drops to $179/mo. A three-bedroom in the centre costs $756/mo, while outside the centre it is $448/mo. Excluding rent, a single person spends about $450/mo. Utilities run $37/mo, internet $5/mo, a mobile plan $12/mo, and a monthly public transport pass $16/mo. A gym membership is $37/mo, an inexpensive restaurant meal costs $3, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $22, and a cappuccino is $3. The average monthly net salary is $746/mo, which means even the comfortable tier remains within reach for many locals.
Safety and healthcare are solid foundations for daily life. The safety index stands at 65/100, with a crime index of 35/100, indicating a relatively low crime environment. Healthcare quality is rated as good, which reassures both long-term residents and newcomers. The air quality index is 68, a moderate figure that may prompt some to monitor outdoor activities on poorer days.
Getting to Jiaxing typically involves flying into the nearest airport, SHA, located 100 km away. Visa options exist for various stays, though specific program names are not covered here. This city suits budget-conscious singles, early retirees, and digital nomads who prioritize affordability over a large expat scene. The FIRE score of 91/100 highlights its appeal for those seeking financial independence, while the overall expat score of 89/100 reflects a generally positive experience. The retiree score of 72/100 and digital nomad score of 74/100 suggest it works well for slower-paced living and remote work, provided one adapts to limited English and a smaller international community.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Jiaxing, China. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Jiaxing at the budget tier comes to about $375 a month for one adult, with $179 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $85.00 on groceries, $12.00 on dining out, $30.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $53.00 on utilities and connectivity and $16.00 on transport.
Rent
$179/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$85.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$12.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$30.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$53.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$16.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Jiaxing at the mid-range tier comes to about $476 a month for one adult, with $179 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $113 on groceries, $30.00 on dining out, $85.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $53.00 on utilities and connectivity and $16.00 on transport.
Rent
$179/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$113/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$30.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$85.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$53.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$16.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Jiaxing at the comfortable tier comes to about $716 a month for one adult, with $283 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $159 on groceries, $85.00 on dining out, $120 on entertainment and lifestyle, $53.00 on utilities and connectivity and $16.00 on transport.
Rent
$283/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$159/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$85.00/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$120/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$53.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$16.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $283.46/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
See low-fee transfersWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Jiaxing's cost of living compares with Longquan
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Jiaxing is a relatively safe mid-sized Chinese city with low violent crime rates typical of mainland China's tier-2 urban centers. Petty theft and scams targeting foreigners occur occasionally, particularly around transportation hubs and tourist areas; remain vigilant with valuables and verify taxi credentials. The main concerns for expats are navigating language barriers in emergencies, understanding local regulations, and adapting to surveillance-heavy policing. Political sensitivities around sensitive topics and restricted internet access are standard considerations. Overall, Jiaxing presents manageable safety for Western expats accustomed to Chinese urban life, though it lacks the international infrastructure of Shanghai or Beijing.
See how Jiaxing's healthcare compares with Longquan
Jiaxing has a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers (June-August) and cold, damp winters (December-February), with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant conditions.
Jiaxing is a modern city with a rising expat community.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| WeWork Jiaxing Yintai City | Located in the central Nanhu District, WeWork offers a reliable, international-standard coworking experience with modern amenities and a professional atmosphere. Its central location provides easy access to restaurants and transportation. |
| Ucommune (various locations in Jiaxing) | Ucommune has multiple locations throughout Jiaxing, offering a range of coworking options. They are known for fostering a collaborative environment and often host events, making it a good choice for networking. |
| Regus Jiaxing | Regus provides serviced offices and coworking spaces with a focus on professionalism and efficiency. They offer a variety of workspace solutions and are typically located in business-centric areas. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Working remotely from Jiaxing? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Jiaxing's digital nomad life compares with Longquan
Strategically located between Shanghai and Hangzhou, Jiaxing is a pleasant water town hub with a small industrial expat community.
Areas of Jiaxing that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Modern, commercial, convenient living
Nanhu is the central district, offering modern apartments, shopping malls, and international restaurants. It's well-connected by public transport and has a higher concentration of expats. While convenient, it can be pricier and less traditionally Chinese.
Residential, local, affordable living
Xiuzhou is a more residential area with a local feel. It offers more affordable housing options and a glimpse into everyday Chinese life. English proficiency is lower here, so some Mandarin skills are helpful.
Industrial, modern, business-focused
This area is geared towards business and industry, with modern apartments and amenities catering to professionals. It's a good option for those working in the zone, but may lack the cultural charm of other areas. Expect a mix of Chinese and international residents.
Historic, scenic, tourist destination
While technically a separate town within Jiaxing's jurisdiction, Wuzhen is a famous water town with beautiful scenery and a thriving tourism industry. Rent can be higher due to its popularity, and it may feel less authentic than other areas. It's a good option for those seeking a picturesque and lively environment.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $283/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.
Compare health insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Not sure which China visa you qualify for?
Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Click any question to expand the answer.
Cost-of-living and visa updates for Jiaxing and the rest of China. Free with RA Postcards.
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to RA Postcards and special offers from Rewire Abroad and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.