🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Nanjing - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$27,105 (2024)
Inflation Rate0.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$763 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend32.2% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Nanjing is generally considered affordable, with a daily budget of $30-50 USD for backpackers, $50-100 USD for mid-range travelers, and $150-250 USD for comfort seekers.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$30-50 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$50-100 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$150-250 USD
CurrencyCNY
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Nanjing?
Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province in eastern China, offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, rich history, and natural beauty. Compared to other major cities in China, such as Shanghai and Beijing, Nanjing has a relatively low cost of living. The city's affordable prices make it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. However, prices can vary depending on the location, with the city center tend to be more expensive than the outskirts. Overall, Nanjing provides a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience the best of China without breaking the bank.
In terms of global averages, Nanjing's cost of living is lower than many major cities in Asia, such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong. However, it is still more expensive than some of its neighboring cities in China, such as Chengdu and Chongqing. Despite this, Nanjing's unique cultural and historical significance, combined with its relatively low cost of living, make it an attractive destination for travelers and expats.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$10-20
Basic dorms and private rooms, often with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$30-60
3-star hotels with private rooms and en-suite bathrooms
Luxury/Resort
$100-200
5-star hotels with high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$200-500
City center: $300-500, outside city center: $200-300
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$3-5
Casual Restaurant
$10-20
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$20-30
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$3-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$0.20-0.50
Taxi (per km)
$0.50-1.00
Domestic flight
$50-200
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80-1.20
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
200
400
800
Food
300
600
1,200
Transport
50
100
200
Utilities
50
100
200
Entertainment
100
200
500
Total
700
1,400
2,900
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel, which can save you up to 50% on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls, which offer delicious and affordable meals.
Use public transport, such as buses and metro, which are cheap and efficient.
Avoid traveling during peak season (June to August), when prices tend to be higher.
Learn some basic Mandarin phrases, which can help you navigate the city and get better deals.
Take advantage of the city's many free or low-cost attractions, such as the Nanjing City Wall and the Xuanwu Lake.