🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Xi'an - 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 Xi'an is relatively affordable, with a daily budget of $20-50 USD for backpackers, $50-100 USD for mid-range travelers, and $100-200 USD for those seeking a comfortable experience.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$20-50 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$50-100 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$100-200 USD
CurrencyCNY
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Xi'an?
Xi'an is a city located in the Shaanxi province of China, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Compared to other major cities in China, such as Shanghai and Beijing, Xi'an is relatively affordable. The cost of living in Xi'an is lower than in these cities, making it an attractive destination for tourists and expats alike. However, prices in Xi'an have been rising in recent years, especially in the city center, due to its growing popularity and urbanization.
In comparison to global averages, Xi'an is still considered an affordable city, with a cost of living index that is lower than many major cities in the world. The city's affordable prices, combined with its unique cultural and historical attractions, make it an excellent choice for travelers and expats looking for a high quality of life at a lower cost. The local currency, CNY, is the official currency used in Xi'an, and it is widely accepted throughout the city.
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 amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi
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
$10-15
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$20-30
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$2-5
Coffee
$2-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$0.20-0.50
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$50-200
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80-1.20
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
200
300
500
Food
200
300
500
Transport
50
100
200
Utilities
50
100
150
Entertainment
100
200
300
Total
600
1000
1650
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries and street food stalls to enjoy affordable and delicious meals.
Use public transportation, such as buses and metro, to get around the city.
Avoid traveling during peak season (June to August) to save on accommodation and tourist attraction prices.
Learn some basic Mandarin phrases to help you navigate the city and interact with locals.
Take advantage of the city's many free or low-cost cultural attractions, such as the Xi'an City Wall and the Muslim Quarter.