Cost of Living in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China's largest city and global financial hub, offers a unique blend of futuristic skyscrapers and colonial-era architecture. As an economist's case study, it represents the pinnacle of China's urban development. While it remains one of the most expensive cities in mainland China, particularly regarding real estate and international education, it offers a surprisingly affordable lifestyle for those who embrace local dining and world-class public transportation. The living standard is exceptionally high, with a lifestyle that rivals major Western capitals in terms of convenience and infrastructure.