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Moving to Qingdao, China | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Qingdao, China

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Dec 02, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Qingdao, China for a variety of reasons, including its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and excellent job opportunities. The city is home to a large expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. Qingdao also offers a low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the city is well-connected to the rest of China, making it easy to explore the country.

What do I need to know before moving to Qingdao?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Qingdao, they said:

"Qingdao is a large coastal city in Eastern China with a wide variety of activities and attractions. Expats should learn basic Chinese to navigate the city and understand the local culture. They should also research the climate and transportation system, as weather and air quality can fluctuate greatly during the year and the public transit system is extensive. Expats should also have a good understanding of Chinese bureaucracy and visa regulations, as they are essential for having a legal and smooth stay. Finally, it's important to be aware of the cost of living in Qingdao before relocating as it can be more expensive than expected," remarked one expat who made the move to Qingdao, China.

How do I find a place to live in Qingdao?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Qingdao is to contact a realtor or property management company that specializes in the local Qingdao market. Many real estate companies and websites have detailed listings of available apartments and homes for rent or sale. Additionally, local landlords and housing agencies can provide potential tenants with helpful information about available rentals, as well as advice about areas of the city and nearby neighborhoods. Lastly, China’s Craigslist-like website 58.com is a great resource for potential renters, as the website features listings from a variety of landlords and real estate companies in the Qingdao area," said one expat in Qingdao, China.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Qingdao?

"In Qingdao, many expat homes and apartments are modern and come with a good range of amenities. Most expat homes are in residential compounds with facilities such as swimming pools and gyms, as well as conveniently located close to city attractions. Apartments tend to be either fully furnished or semi-furnished, with some providing additional services like house cleaning and laundry. Moreover, the apartments usually have solar hot water, air conditioning, and free internet access. Overall, Qingdao is a great place to live for foreign expats, with plenty of modern and comfortable options available," explained one expat living in Qingdao, China, China.

What is the average cost of housing in Qingdao?

If you are thinking about moving to Qingdao, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Qingdao can vary greatly depending on the type of housing and the area. On average, studios and apartments are the most popular and cost anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 RMB per month, depending on size and location. Townhouses and villas can be more expensive and cost anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 RMB per month," replied a member in Qingdao, China.

Should I buy or rent a home in Qingdao?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Qingdao, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"If you are planning to live in Qingdao, you should consider both the buying and renting options. When deciding whether to buy or rent, you should factor in the amount of money you have available, how long you plan to stay in the city, and your own personal preferences. Buying can be an expensive option and you will need to save for the long-term investment, but it can build equity and provide stability in an area if you decide to stay for a longer period of time. On the other hand, renting offers more flexibility and requires less of a commitment than buying a home and can be more affordable on a monthly basis. Ultimately, it is important to weigh all of your considerations when making a decision," replied a member in Qingdao, China.

What should I pack when moving to Qingdao?

We asked people living in Qingdao to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Qingdao, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate, as Qingdao's summers are hot and humid and winters can be cold with some snow. Layering is always helpful in any climates. Bring some rain gear in case of unexpected downpours. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential since Qingdao is great for exploring and walking around the city. Other essential items to pack would include toiletries, a first-aid kit, medications, and any important documents you need. Electrics such as an adapter and power banks with multiple ports may also come in handy," replied a member in Qingdao, China.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Qingdao?

We asked people in Qingdao if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be respectful and mindful of the culture and customs of Qingdao when visiting. In general, avoid engaging in public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, as this is considered inappropriate. Furthermore, be sure to remove your shoes before entering a home or a place of worship, and never pass items directly between people with one hand, as this is considered rude. Additionally, it is important to be polite and courteous when speaking to others, and to avoid talking too loudly or excessively. Finally, be sure to avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as politics and religion, as this could evoke strong emotions," said one expat in Qingdao, China.

"Thankfully, I'm somewhat insulated from severe blunders by being in the company of English speaking Chinese friends in most social situations. The word for beer is frightfully similar to the word for buttocks and I must confess I did once order a cold butt when trying to order a cold beer," remarked one expat who made the move to Qingdao.

Why do people move to Qingdao?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Qingdao, they responded:

"Qingdao is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent job opportunities. The city is home to a number of international companies, making it an ideal place for those looking to work abroad. Additionally, Qingdao boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The city also offers a wide range of leisure activities, from beaches and parks to shopping and nightlife. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and excellent job opportunities, Qingdao is an ideal destination for expats looking to experience a new culture and lifestyle," wrote one expat living in Qingdao.

How are healthcare services Qingdao?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Qingdao, they replied:

"Qingdao offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and offer a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialist care. Private hospitals and clinics offer a more personalized service and often have shorter waiting times. In addition, there are a number of traditional Chinese medicine clinics offering treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications," wrote one expat living in Qingdao.

What are medical services in Qingdao like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Qingdao, they replied:

"Qingdao offers a wide range of medical services, including both traditional Chinese medicine and modern Western medicine. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Many of the hospitals and clinics are equipped with the latest medical technology and offer a range of services, from diagnosis and treatment to preventive care. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and health food stores that provide a variety of products and services," said one expat living in Qingdao, China.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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