Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in China

China, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. Here are ten cities and towns that offer a great balance of work and play for those looking to immerse themselves in Chinese life.

Chengdu

Known for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, Chengdu is a must-visit for foodies. The city is also home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $50. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $10. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Panda Breeding Research Center and the Wenshu Yuan Monastery, a beautiful Buddhist temple in the heart of the city.

Hangzhou

Located in the lush green region of Southern China, Hangzhou is famous for its beautiful West Lake and Longjing tea. Digital nomads can work from the scenic cafes lining the lake or explore the temples and gardens in their downtime. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $600 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $55. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $12. Nomad Tip: Take a boat ride on West Lake and visit the Xixi Wetland, a beautiful nature reserve just outside of the city.

Dali

Located in Yunnan province, Dali is a charming town nestled in the mountains. It's famous for its ancient architecture and the beautiful Erhai Lake. Digital nomads can work from the many cafes and coworking spaces while enjoying the scenic views. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $300 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $30. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $8. Nomad Tip: Visit the Dali Ancient City and the Three Pagodas, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Xiamen

Situated on the southeastern coast of China, Xiamen is known for its beautiful beaches and colonial architecture. Digital nomads can work from the many cafes and coworking spaces while enjoying the ocean views. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $700 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $60. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $15. Nomad Tip: Don't miss Gulangyu Island, a beautiful island just off the coast with colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.

Suzhou

Located in Jiangsu province, Suzhou is famous for its beautiful gardens and canals. Digital nomads can work from the many cafes and coworking spaces while exploring the gardens and historic sites in their downtime. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $650 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $60. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $12. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Humble Administrator's Garden and the Pingjiang Road pedestrian street.

Shanghai

China's largest city, Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture. Digital nomads can work from the many coworking spaces and cafes while exploring the city's nightlife and cultural attractions in their downtime. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $1,200 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $100. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $20. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Bund, a famous promenade along the Huangpu River, and the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden.

Lijiang

Located in Yunnan province, Lijiang is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient water-powered mills and historic architecture. Digital nomads can work from the many cafes and coworking spaces while exploring the old town and surrounding natural beauty. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $40. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $10. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Lijiang Ancient Town, a beautiful historic town with winding canals and stunning architecture.

Tianjin

Located near Beijing, Tianjin is a bustling port city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Digital nomads can work from the many cafes and coworking spaces while exploring the historic sites and nightlife in their downtime. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $700 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $60. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $15. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Tianjin Eye, a beautiful Ferris wheel with stunning views of the city, and the Ancient Cultural Street, a pedestrian street with traditional Chinese architecture.

Beijing

China's capital city, Beijing, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to China. Digital nomads can work from the many coworking spaces and cafes while exploring the city's historic sites and cultural attractions in their downtime. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood costs around $900 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $80. A moderate dinner for one person with a drink comes in at around $15. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Forbidden City, a stunning palace complex with beautiful gardens and historic sites, and the Temple of Heaven, a beautiful temple complex with stunning architecture.

Where to Stay & Eat

In each of these cities, there are many neighborhoods with furnished rentals and fun restaurants for young people. In Chengdu, try the Jinjiang District or Wuhou District. In Hangzhou, try the Hefang Street area or the Xintiandi area. In Dali, try the Old Town area or the Xiaguan area. In Xiamen, try the Hulishan Fort area or the Siming District. In Suzhou, try the Pingjiang Road area or the Shiqiaotou area. In Shanghai, try the Jing'an District or the Xintiandi area. In Lijiang, try the Old Town area or the Shuhe area. In Tianjin, try the Nankai District or the Hexi District. In Beijing, try the Wangfujing area or the Sanlitun area.