Living in Beijing China can be a rewarding adventure with opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, it’s essential to be prepared for cultural differences, be aware of local regulations, and plan accordingly to make the most of your time in this dynamic and historic city.
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Living in Beijing as an expat 101
Is Beijing safe?
Beijing city has a low crime rate and few violent incidents involving expats, leading many to label it a safe place to live in. While major crimes are uncommon, foreigners should nevertheless be on guard, especially in popular tourist areas where petty thefts like bicycle theft and handbag snatching might occur.
The city’s heavy police and security presence gives residents confidence in their own safety. Pick-pocketing and other minor crimes are uncommon, making Beijing a safe city even at night for both locals and tourists. Although traffic safety is generally good, pedestrians and cyclists should use caution when crossing the street because automobiles do not always give way to them.
Weather in Beijing
The months of March through May, known as spring, are characterized by dry and windy conditions, with occasional sandstorms. The city experiences hot and humid weather with frequent thunderstorms as spring gives way to summer (June to August).
During the fall (September – November), temperatures drop gradually from their scorching highs in the summer. The first frosts of the season often occur around November, signaling the start of the winter season.
From December through February, the weather is chilly and dry, with temperatures frequently falling below freezing. The month of January is consistently the coldest, and the city receives snowfall on occasion throughout these winter months, adding a layer of icy beauty to the scene.
Is Beijing expensive to live in?
Expats’ primary cost of living in Beijing, China is on housing. The going rate for a one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the city is at least 6,500 yuan. Rental costs can be reduced by as much as half if you’re willing to live outside of the city core.
Apartment prices in Beijing range widely but are often relatively high for foreign buyers. For apartments in or close to the city center, the going rate per square foot is between 100,000 yuan and 180,000 yuan.
A typical supper in Beijing will only set you back about 33.50 yuan. Importing goods and eating at Western-style restaurants can increase spending.
The public transportation system in Beijing is very cheap. Public transportation tickets cost about 5 yuan while taxi charges start at 13 yuan. Due to the potential for traffic, taking public transit is recommended.
In Beijing, the cost of utilities is manageable. Utilities for an 85 sqm apartment average around 400 yuan, while a monthly mobile phone package with calls and 10GB+ of data costs around 80 yuan.
A bottle of beer and some street food appetizers could cost about 15-30 yuan, while a movie ticket normally costs roughly 50 yuan.
In Beijing, salaries are not uniform across industries or experience levels. The average pay about 23,500 yuan per month, which is enough for most people to fulfill their basic needs for about one and a half months.
For Americans living in Beijing, the cost is way cheaper than their home country.
Transportation in Beijing
Beijing’s public transportation network includes buses, trolleybuses, suburban rail, and a growing metro. This system is efficient, affordable, and convenient for city travel.
Due to its speed, efficiency, and affordability, expats and locals prefer the Beijing Subway. Depending on distance, subway prices range from 3 yuan to 8 yuan, with a well-established network of 22 lines. The subway might get congested during busy hours.
Beijing has thousands of buses on many routes in addition to the metro. This extensive bus network serves the city and suburbs. Cash or the Transportation Smart Card can be used.
Rickshaws in the old narrow alleys (hutongs) offer a unique way to explore the city’s small streets. Remember that rickshaws aren’t viable for daily commuting through your life in Beijing.
Expat jobs in Beijing
- Teaching English is a popular Beijing career for expats. The city has many language teacher opportunities, but English teachers are most in demand. International schools and universities hire expat teachers.
- Huawei, Lenovo, and Xiaomi are based in Beijing, a tech powerhouse. These companies hire tech and engineering expats.
- Beijing’s media environment is thriving with the likes of China Daily and Xinhua. These companies hire journalists, broadcasters, and media producers.
- Embassies and foreign organizations abound in Beijing. These organizations hire diplomats, international relations, and foreign affairs experts.
- The hospitality sector in Beijing is growing, offering foreigners several job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
- Beijing is a hub for marketing and advertising organizations, giving expats with marketing, advertising, and PR experience attractive jobs.
Do you need health insurance in Beijing?
Expats in Beijing typically go the private healthcare route. Private hospitals offer more perks, like shorter wait times and staff that can communicate in English. However, keep in mind that private healthcare can be quite pricey, and that not all hospitals accept all insurance plans. This is why it is crucial for expats to do their homework before committing to a health insurance policy.
While waiting to get residency status, expats have the option of acquiring private healthcare coverage through either their work or independently.
Banking in Beijing for expats
When it comes to banking in Beijing, locals and foreigners tend to use one of the city’s several prominent Chinese institutions. You may locate ATMs from these banks all across the city, and they offer a full range of banking services. In addition, these financial institutions provide the direct deposit of paychecks by employers, expediting the payment procedure for international workers.
The few multinational banks that have opened up shop in Beijing do not offer ATM services, and their services are limited in other ways as a result of government limitations. However, expats who visit the branches of the more well-known international banks will likely find service provided by employees fluent in English.
Foreigners seeking to open bank accounts in Beijing may encounter more stringent criteria from state-owned financial institutions. Although some smaller commercial banks may be more lenient, it is still extremely unusual to find one that does not require proof of legal presence in the nation to open an account.
Some banks provide high-net-worth clients priority banking. Rich clients receive customized banking solutions and specific perks from this service.
Are there international schools in Beijing?
There are many excellent foreign schools for those moving to Beijing. These schools have different age restrictions depending on the grade level. A minimum age for enrollment or grade-level age limits may be set by some schools.
To get entry to an international school in Beijing, parents and pupils are usually asked to submit a number of forms and supporting documentation. Included in these materials are the student’s official transcript, academic records, English language placement test scores, recommendation forms, and attendance at family introduction meetings. Along with a valid visa or passport, proof of domicile and overseas residency of more than a year are frequently sought documents.
Expat housing Beijing
Almost all area in Beijing has at least one hotel that would be ideal for foreigners, with prices ranging from extremely cheap to quite expensive. Finding a happy medium between home cost, location, and quality can be difficult for expats.
Young, single professionals are often attracted to apartments in the city center because of their convenience. In contrast, detached single-family homes in the Beijing suburbs are where most families choose to settle down.
Gated residential complexes in Beijing are popular among foreign residents because they provide a range of extra services and amenities to suit the needs and preferences of international families relocating to the city.
Where to live in Beijing
- Changping District: In Beijing’s northern suburbs, Changping District is known for its natural beauty and historical sites. Its quieter lifestyle makes it a popular weekend retreat from the city center.
- The Chaoyang District: It is the most popular area in Beijing with foreigners since it has many of the city’s most upscale and cutting-edge residential areas. An abundance of western services, international schools, and restaurants and nightlife venues make it a popular place for expat populations to settle.
- Dongcheng area: Dongcheng is an area bustling with foreigners, providing a comfortable blend of contemporary and traditional lifestyles. Sanlitun, an area known for its many restaurants, pubs, and stores, is a part of this municipality. The accessibility of foreign amenities and imported goods has also contributed to this area’s notoriety.
- Shunyi District: Families with children often prefer the Shunyi District, which is further from the city center but closer to the airport. There are a number of international schools in the area, making it ideal for the education of expat children and providing a more peaceful suburban alternative.
- Haidian District: As the location of several of Beijing’s most prestigious educational institutions, Haidian District might be considered the city’s intellectual epicenter. Students and academics will enjoy the seamless integration of modern conveniences with classic touches.
- Wangjing: Many foreign companies’ Chinese headquarters are located in Wangjing, and the city also has a sizable Korean presence. This area is popular for its current apartment buildings and extensive selection of conveniences, providing residents with a comfortable blend of contemporary and classic lifestyles.
Is Beijing a good place to live?
- Cultural Experiences: Beijing has museums, historical sites, and Chinese festivals. Expats can experience Chinese culture and history.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Beijing has many pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Expats can enjoy vibrant city nights with pals.
- Low Living Cost in Beijing: The city has a low cost of living compared to other big cities. Expats can enjoy affordable food, transportation, and entertainment.
- Transportation Hub: Beijing’s central location simplifies travel within China and to neighboring Asian countries.
- Career Opportunities: Beijing offers foreigners an array of jobs in teaching, technology, journalism, and hospitality.
Disadvantages of living in Beijing as a foreigner
- Pollution: Beijing is known for its air pollution, which can harm health. Expats may need air filters and masks to protect themselves from pollution.
- Overcrowding: Beijing’s high population density makes finding peaceful spaces difficult. The large population causes traffic congestion and long commutes, which inhabitants often experience.
- Language Barrier: Locals speak Mandarin, so non-native speakers may have trouble communicating when living in China.
- Accommodation Expenses: In Beijing, especially in the city core, lodging is expensive. Thus, expats may need to live farther from the city center to save money.
- Traffic and Transportation: Beijing’s convoluted traffic and packed public transportation often overwhelm expats. Transportation concerns can be a daily challenge for locals.
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