Shanghai is a city that effortlessly blends modern innovation with rich culture. During my week-long visit, I was blown away by the affordable transportation, vibrant food scene, and stunning architecture. I list 7 great things of living in shanghai.
Public transport: cheap, well-organized, and fast
I was thoroughly impressed with the public transport system. It was not only extremely affordable but also highly efficient. I found myself getting from one end of the city to another with ease and speed.
The metro was well-organized, with clear signage in both Chinese and English, making it easy for someone like me, a foreigner, to navigate. It only takes 7 mins to get from PVG to LongYang Road (Metro Line12) by taking airport maglev. I never had to wait long for a train, and the stations themselves were clean and modern.
Buses were similarly efficient, though I didn’t use them as much. What stood out to me the most was how cheap it was compared to other cities of similar size and stature. For just a few RMB, I could traverse vast distances across the city. This, coupled with the seamless integration between different modes of transportation, really made getting around stress-free.
The cost of living in Shanghai is highly affordable if your earning is above 20,000 yuan.
Ride-hailing apps: affordable
I found ride-hailing apps in Shanghai to be incredibly affordable and convenient. I relied on Didi, China’s equivalent to Uber, several times during my stay, and each trip left me pleasantly surprised at how cost-effective it was. Even during peak times or for longer distances, the fares were much lower than what I’ve paid in other major cities like New York or London.
The availability of cars was never an issue either – drivers were always just a few minutes away, and they were punctual and professional. Despite not speaking Mandarin, the app made it easy for me to communicate with the drivers, and the in-app translation feature was incredibly helpful.
I’d heard that getting around Shanghai was affordable, but experiencing it firsthand really blew me away. If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to travel without breaking the bank, ride-hailing in Shanghai is a game-changer.
People in general were kind
One thing that truly stood out to me in Shanghai was the kindness of the people. Despite the language barrier, I found locals to be friendly, patient, and always willing to help. Whether it was a shop assistant going out of their way to assist me or a passerby helping me with directions, I felt welcomed everywhere I went. The service in restaurants, cafes, and stores was particularly impressive. Staff were attentive without being overbearing, and it was clear that they took pride in providing excellent service.
I never felt rushed, even in busy spots, and they always made sure I had everything I needed. What’s more, I noticed that tipping isn’t really a thing in Shanghai. It felt genuine, and I left many places feeling like I’d had a personalized experience. If you’re someone who values good service and friendly interactions, Shanghai definitely delivers on that front.
Some streets are clean and well-maintained
For a city of its size and population, I didn’t expect the level of cleanliness I encountered. There was an obvious effort to keep public spaces well-maintained. Sidewalks were spotless, free of litter, and the roads were in excellent condition. Street cleaners seemed to be working round the clock, and bins were placed conveniently throughout the city, making it easy for people to dispose of trash responsibly. Even in busier areas, there was a sense of order and cleanliness that added to the overall beauty of the city.
The wide sidewalks also contributed to the pleasant walking experience. I never felt crowded or rushed, even in places that are typically bustling with people. It made walking through the city, whether during the day or night, a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Greenery and flowers
One of the things I didn’t expect about Shanghai was just how green the city is. Everywhere I went, there seemed to be parks, trees, and beautifully maintained flower beds, which added a refreshing touch of nature to the urban landscape.
This spaciousness made a big difference in how the city felt; despite its size, it rarely felt overwhelming or chaotic. The planners seem to have really thought about the pedestrian experience, ensuring that there’s plenty of room to walk, relax, and enjoy the surroundings. These green spaces also serve as little oases in the city, offering spots to take a break from sightseeing or grab a coffee.
The combination of greenery and well-designed walkways creates a calm, breathable atmosphere in what is otherwise a bustling metropolis.
Paradise for food lovers
If you love food, Shanghai is a paradise. The variety is incredible—whether you’re craving traditional Chinese cuisine, international dishes, or something experimental, you’ll find it here. During my visit, I tried everything from street food to upscale dining, and each meal was an adventure in itself. What really surprised me, though, was the coffee culture in Shanghai. I didn’t expect to find such a vibrant coffee scene, but it’s genuinely one of the best I’ve experienced.
From small, independent cafes to larger chains, the quality was consistently high, and the prices were incredibly reasonable. Whether you’re looking for a strong espresso or something more creative like a matcha latte, Shanghai’s coffee spots will not disappoint.
And the best part? It’s all affordable. You can enjoy a top-tier meal or coffee without feeling like you’re overspending, which adds to the overall experience of the city. Food and drink are essential parts of exploring a new place, and Shanghai nails it in both variety and value.
Architecture is beautiful
Shanghai’s architecture is a true marvel. It’s a city that manages to balance old and new in a way that feels seamless. Walking through the streets, you’ll see restored heritage buildings with beautiful historical details standing side by side with sleek, modern skyscrapers. This blend of styles gives the city a unique character that feels both rich in history and forward-thinking.
As a visitor, I found it easy to navigate, and I never felt lost or overwhelmed. The city seems to have been designed with a clear focus on functionality and aesthetics, making it not only beautiful to look at but also practical to live in and visit. Whether you’re admiring the skyline or taking a quiet stroll through a historic district, Shanghai’s architecture and city planning are standout features that make it truly special.
Check out a more complete list of pros and cons of living in Shanghai as an expat.