Shanghai vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Comparing Shanghai and Dhaka highlights the massive economic disparity between China's premier financial hub and the rapidly growing capital of Bangladesh. While Shanghai offers a high-tech, polished urban experience, it comes at a significant premium. Dhaka, conversely, stands as one of the most affordable mega-cities in the world, offering a drastically lower entry point for cost of living, albeit with different infrastructural challenges.
Is Shanghai more expensive than Dhaka?
Yes, Shanghai is significantly more expensive than Dhaka. Consumer prices in Shanghai are estimated to be 110% to 130% higher than in Dhaka when excluding rent. When rent is included, the gap widens further. While Shanghai's local purchasing power is roughly 300% higher than Dhaka's, an expat or relocation specialist will find that a standard middle-class lifestyle in Dhaka costs roughly one-third of what it would in Shanghai. For those earning in USD, Dhaka offers extreme affordability, while Shanghai requires a substantial corporate salary to maintain a similar level of luxury.
Housing and Real Estate
The housing market is where the contrast is most visible. In Shanghai, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center (like Jing'an or Xuhui) typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 USD per month. In Dhaka, a modern apartment in high-end neighborhoods like Gulshan or Banani costs between $350 and $700 USD. Property prices per square meter in central Shanghai are nearly 10 times higher than those in Dhaka, making Shanghai one of the most expensive real estate markets globally.
Food and Dining
Groceries in Shanghai are approximately 50% more expensive than in Dhaka. Basic items like milk, bread, and local produce are very cheap in Dhaka's local markets. Dining out also shows a huge variance: a meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Dhaka costs about $2.50 USD, while a similar meal in Shanghai averages $6 to $10 USD. For a mid-range three-course dinner for two, you can expect to pay around $25 USD in Dhaka compared to $65 USD in Shanghai.
Transportation and Connectivity
Shanghai features one of the world's most advanced and extensive metro systems, with fares usually under $1 USD per trip. Dhaka's transportation is dominated by rickshaws, buses, and increasingly, the new MRT, which is much cheaper but often crowded. A monthly transit pass in Shanghai is about $30 USD, whereas in Dhaka, transport costs are highly variable but generally lower. However, car ownership and fuel costs are higher in Shanghai due to strict licensing auctions and taxes.
Lifestyle and Utilities
Basic utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost around $60-$90 USD in both cities, though Dhaka's pricing can be lower depending on usage and government subsidies. High-speed internet is more expensive and more restricted in Shanghai due to the 'Great Firewall.' Entertainment, such as cinema tickets or gym memberships, is significantly pricier in Shanghai, with a gym membership costing $60 USD per month compared to roughly $25 USD in Dhaka.
How to get from Shanghai to Dhaka
There are currently no direct flight routes between Shanghai (PVG) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers usually take connecting flights through hubs like Guangzhou (CAN) with China Southern, Kunming (KMG) with China Eastern, or Bangkok (BKK) with Thai Airways. The total travel time typically ranges from 8 to 12 hours depending on the layover duration.
The Verdict: Shanghai or Dhaka?
The choice between these two cities depends on your priorities. Shanghai is the clear winner for digital nomads and families seeking world-class infrastructure, safety, and international schools, provided they have a high budget. Dhaka is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs in the garment/textile sector or NGO workers who want to maximize their savings, as the cost of living allows for a very high standard of domestic help and luxury services that would be unaffordable in Shanghai.
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