Everything you need to know
Cost of Living
A practical breakdown of everyday expenses in Dalian, from housing and food to schooling and transportation.
Rent
Apartments in Dalian are affordable compared to major cities. Most expats pay between 2,500–6,000 RMB depending on location and size.
Utilities
Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and heating usually range from 300–600 RMB.
Transportation
Public transport is cheap and efficient. Most expats spend around 200–500 RMB monthly on metro, bus, or Didi.
Food
Eating local is very affordable. Monthly food costs typically range from 2,000–4,000 RMB depending on lifestyle.
An average meal can range from 15 RMB to 150 RMB, depending on whether you eat local or Western-style.
Schooling
International schools are the biggest expense, ranging from 150,000–250,000 RMB per year per child.
Some Montessori-style schools offer more affordable options, with tuition below 3,000 RMB per month and around 25 RMB per day for lunches.
Entertainment
Activities like gyms, cafés, shopping, and nightlife vary by lifestyle, but most expats spend around 1,000+ RMB monthly.
Stress-free moving
Getting Adjusted
Most landlords require at least three months of rent upfront, so it’s a good rule of thumb to arrive with enough savings to cover this, along with additional funds to support yourself until your first paycheck.
- Save roughly 10,800 for rent (3600/mo)
- Tip: You can find all your hygiene needs when you arrive.
- Bring an adapter/plug for China
- Bring any unique items from your country with you.
Some helpful downloads
before you arrive
Virtual Private Network
Due to the Chinese firewalls you must have a VPN to be able to stay connected with family and friends. Astrill has proved to be one of the most trusted and dependable among its competitors.
all apps you use from your home country
You will not be able to access many websites such as: Google, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, Cash App, Netflix, Amazon Prime, or any other similar sites due to China’s firewall. Make sure you have these apps up to date.
Google Voice
You can purchase your phone number for around $20 for life with google voice so your family and friends can stay connected with you. Once you arrive, using VPN, you can stay connected.
Many Foreigners from around the globe make the choice to make dalian their home
Insights from people living and working in the city
A calmer, happier expat
“I’ve been living in Dalian for 7 years now, and my quality of life has improved so much. I feel safe here—I don’t have to worry about things like my phone being taken when I’m out. The slower pace of life has really helped me feel more at ease and grow as a person. I’ve also been able to save money, which has made a big difference for my future.”
A hopeful romantic
“I met the love of my life here in Dalian. We were introduced through friends—I was working, and he was studying—and everything just fell into place. You really never know what life has in store for you. What started as a simple move turned into something much more meaningful.”
A passport always ready
“One of the best things about living in Dalian is how easy it is to travel. I’m just an hour from Seoul, a couple of hours from Japan, and about four hours from Hong Kong. I’ve been able to visit places I never thought I could before. My passport is filling up, and so is my life with unforgettable experiences.”
Best Areas to Live in Dalian for Expats
From local sights to Cafe’s Dalian has something for everyone.
Olympic Square is central to many places in Dalian. This location is near Olympia 66 mall, Electric City, many western style restaurants such as Unome and a quick drive to others in nearby locations (squares).
Zhongshan square is home to Labor Park, many shopping areas, bus lines, government buildings, several malls and plazas and is very popular among expats.
High Tech Zone is near a popular Wanda Plaza that features many outdoor food trucks and indoor shopping mall with popular chains such as Adidas, Sephora and Starbucks. It’s near the sea too with local favorite swimming zones.
Dandong is home to Little Venice, Dalian Conference Center, a beautiful seaside park with many Yachts, diving, bike rentals, food and theme park. There are many trails to walk along the sea.