Moving to Wuhan, China
Last updated on Oct 16, 2024
Summary: Expatriates move to Wuhan, China for a variety of reasons, including its vibrant culture, diverse economy, and excellent educational opportunities. The city is home to a number of universities and research institutes, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their studies. Additionally, Wuhan is a major transportation hub, with a well-developed infrastructure and easy access to other parts of the country. The city also offers a wide range of leisure activities, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Finally, Wuhan is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place for expats to settle down and make a new home.
What do I need to know before moving to Wuhan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Wuhan, they said:
"Before moving to Wuhan, expats should be aware that while the city is known for its delicious local cuisine, it is also known for its notoriously hot and humid climate with long, hot and humid summers. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as Mandarin is the main language spoken in Wuhan. It is worth noting that Wuhan is quite technologically advanced, with many businesses and individuals adopting digital payment solutions and various other digital services in their everyday lives. Expats should also be aware of the local customs and culture, where respect for elders and politeness are highly valued. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for expats to explore, from fantastic museums and historical sites to modern shopping districts and the many parks making up the city’s green spaces," commented one expat who made the move to Wuhan, China.
How do I find a place to live in Wuhan?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"When looking for a place to live in Wuhan, it is important to take into account personal preferences and budget. One option to consider is to search online for potential rental properties. Housing websites such as zh.beike.com, lianjia.com and wuhan.anjuke.com provide detailed information about rental apartments, houses and villas. Additionally, another option is to look for rental properties using local newspapers, agents and websites that specialize in this market, as well as seeking advice from friends and colleagues. In short, there are many options to explore when looking for a place to live in Wuhan, China," said one expat in Wuhan, China.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Wuhan?
"Expats living in Wuhan can find a wide variety of housing options to suit their budget and lifestyle. Apartments are generally modern and spacious, with plenty of natural light and well equipped kitchens. Many buildings come with a range of amenities such as leisure facilities, green spaces, and sometimes a shopping mall or restaurant. Security is usually very good, with guards present at the main entrances. Most buildings also feature 24-hour camera surveillance. While rental prices vary throughout the city, they tend to be relatively affordable," replied a member in Wuhan, China.
What is the average cost of housing in Wuhan?
If you are thinking about moving to Wuhan, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Wuhan is varied and largely dependent on the area and amenities one desires. Generally, the average price of a mid-range apartment in Wuhan is slightly above or at the median cost of housing in China, which is around 4000 to 5000 RMB per square meter," commented one expat who made the move to Wuhan, China.
Should I buy or rent a home in Wuhan?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Wuhan, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Wuhan, there are a number of factors to consider. Depending on your current financial situation and long-term goals, either option may be a viable and wise choice. With the purchase of a home, comes the potential of increased equity and real estate appreciation, as well as the satisfaction of owning property. On the other hand, if you plan to stay in the city for a short period of time, renting may be a more sensible decision. Additionally, renting will also spare you from having to deal with the maintenance and other costs associated with homeownership. Ultimately, it's important to consider your individual circumstances to decide if buying or renting is the best option for you," said one expat in Wuhan, China.
What should I pack when moving to Wuhan?
We asked people living in Wuhan to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"Pack items appropriate to Wuhan's climate, such as light sweaters and jackets for the spring and autumn months and heavier sweaters and coats for winter. Make sure to also bring suitable footwear for the often wet and humid weather conditions. Bring items from home such as disinfectant cleaning wipes, toilet paper, paper towels and soaps, as these items are often unavailable in Chinese supermarkets. Consider bringing some American snacks and comfort foods that you may struggle to find in Wuhan. Toiletries such as sunscreen, toothpaste and deodorant can be difficult to find and may not measure up to Western standard. When packing for Wuhan, don’t forget to include an adapter to be able to use your electronics," said one expat in Wuhan, China.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Wuhan?
We asked people in Wuhan 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!:
"When traveling in Wuhan it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid touching someone on the head as this is a sign of disrespect. Refrain from showing signs of affection in public, such as hand-holding or kissing, which are considered inappropriate in the Wuhan culture. Avoid embarrassing someone by calling them by their first name and always use titles, such as ‘Mr.’ or ‘Mrs.’ when addressing someone. Don't bring up sensitive topics such as politics. Discussions of religion should also be avoided. It is important to try to use chopsticks correctly when eating, as it is considered rude to use them as utensils. Finally, learn how to speak a few simple Chinese words to show respect," commented one expat who made the move to Wuhan, China.
Why do people move to Wuhan?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Wuhan, they responded:
"Wuhan is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and low cost of living. The city is home to a wide variety of attractions, from ancient temples and pagodas to modern shopping malls and entertainment venues. Wuhan is also known for its excellent transportation network, making it easy to get around the city and explore its many attractions. Additionally, Wuhan is a great place to learn Mandarin Chinese, as the city is home to many language schools and universities. Finally, Wuhan is a great place to meet people from all over the world, as it is a major hub for international business and trade," offered one expat living in Wuhan.
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How are healthcare services Wuhan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Wuhan, they replied:
"Wuhan is home to a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The city is home to a number of leading medical universities and research institutes, which provide advanced medical care and research opportunities. Wuhan also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Wuhan University Medical Center, which specializes in the treatment of infectious diseases. Additionally, the city has a number of traditional Chinese medicine clinics, which offer a range of treatments and therapies. Wuhan also has a number of pharmacies, which provide a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications," offered one expat living in Wuhan.
What are medical services in Wuhan like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Wuhan, they replied:
"Wuhan 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 treatments, from routine check-ups to complex surgeries. Wuhan also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, mental health centers, and rehabilitation centers. Additionally, the city has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," wrote one expat living in Wuhan.
About the Author
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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