Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Types of Housing in Chongqing

Chongqing offers a variety of housing options to suit different budgets and preferences. These include:

High-rise Apartments: The most common type of housing in Chongqing, ranging from basic units to luxury apartments.
Serviced Apartments: Fully furnished apartments with hotel-like amenities, ideal for short-term stays or expatriates.
Traditional Courtyard Homes (Diaojiaolou): Rare but available in older parts of the city or rural areas.
Shared Apartments: Popular among students and young professionals to save on costs.

2. Average Rental Costs

Rental prices in Chongqing are generally lower than in Tier 1 cities in China. However, costs vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the property. Below are approximate monthly rental costs as of 2023:

By Location

City Center (e.g., Yuzhong District, Jiefangbei, Guanyinqiao):
- 1-bedroom apartment: ¥3,000–¥5,000 ($410–$680)
- 2-bedroom apartment: ¥4,500–¥7,000 ($620–$950)
- 3-bedroom apartment: ¥6,000–¥10,000 ($820–$1,370)
Suburban Areas (e.g., Shapingba, Nan’an, Jiangbei, Yubei):
- 1-bedroom apartment: ¥2,000–¥3,500 ($270–$480)
- 2-bedroom apartment: ¥3,000–¥5,000 ($410–$680)
- 3-bedroom apartment: ¥4,500–¥7,000 ($620–$950)
Outskirts or Rural Areas:
- 1-bedroom apartment: ¥1,000–¥2,000 ($140–$270)
- 2-bedroom apartment: ¥2,000–¥3,000 ($270–$410)

By Type of Housing

Serviced Apartments: ¥6,000–¥15,000 ($820–$2,050) per month, depending on the level of luxury and location.
Shared Apartments: ¥1,000–¥2,500 ($140–$340) per room per month.

3. The Process of Renting an Apartment

Renting an apartment in Chongqing involves several steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Step 1: Searching for a Property

Online Platforms: Popular websites and apps include 58.com (58同城), Anjuke (安居客), and Lianjia (链家). These platforms list properties with photos, prices, and contact details.
Real Estate Agents: Agents are widely used in Chongqing and can help you find properties that match your needs. They typically charge a one-time service fee (see below).
Word of Mouth: Local connections or expat communities can also be a good resource.

Step 2: Viewing the Property

Schedule a visit to inspect the apartment. Pay attention to:
- The condition of the property (e.g., plumbing, electrical systems, furniture).
- Proximity to public transport, schools, or workplaces.
- Noise levels and ventilation (important in Chongqing’s humid climate).

Step 3: Negotiating the Lease

Most leases are for 1 year, but shorter terms may be negotiable.
Landlords may be open to slight rent reductions, especially for longer leases or upfront payments.

Step 4: Signing the Lease

The lease agreement should be in Chinese, but you can request an English translation.
Key details to confirm:
- Monthly rent and payment schedule.
- Deposit amount.
- Maintenance responsibilities.
- Penalties for breaking the lease.

Step 5: Registration with Local Authorities

After signing the lease, you must register your address at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours. This is mandatory for foreigners.

4. Upfront Costs and Deposits

When renting in Chongqing, expect the following upfront costs:

Security Deposit: Typically 1–3 months’ rent, refundable at the end of the lease if there’s no damage.
First Month’s Rent: Paid upfront.
Agency Fee: If you use a real estate agent, the fee is usually 50%–100% of one month’s rent.
Key Deposit: Some landlords may charge a small deposit for keys or access cards.

5. Utilities and Maintenance Fees

Utilities and maintenance costs are usually not included in the rent. Here’s what to expect:

Electricity: ¥0.5–¥0.7 per kWh. Monthly costs range from ¥100–¥300 ($14–$40), depending on usage.
Water: ¥2–¥5 per cubic meter. Monthly costs are typically ¥30–¥50 ($4–$7).
Gas: ¥2–¥3 per cubic meter. Monthly costs are around ¥50–¥100 ($7–$14).
Internet: ¥100–¥200 ($14–$27) per month for high-speed broadband.
Property Management Fees: ¥1–¥5 per square meter per month, depending on the building. For a 100m² apartment, this could be ¥100–¥500 ($14–$70).

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Many apartments in Chongqing come semi-furnished (basic furniture and appliances). Fully furnished apartments are available but may cost more.
Humidity and Mold: Chongqing’s climate is humid, so check for signs of mold or dampness when viewing properties. Dehumidifiers are a common household item.
Negotiation: Bargaining is common, especially for long-term leases. Don’t hesitate to negotiate rent or deposit terms.
Language Barrier: Most landlords and agents speak only Chinese. If you don’t speak the language, consider hiring a bilingual agent or bringing a local friend to assist.
Community Amenities: Many apartment complexes have shared amenities like gyms, swimming pools, and gardens. Check if these are included in the property management fees.

7. Tips for a Smooth Renting Experience

Inspect Thoroughly: Take photos of the apartment’s condition before moving in to avoid disputes over the deposit.
Understand the Lease Terms: Ensure you understand all terms, especially regarding early termination and deposit refunds.
Stay Safe: Use reputable agents or platforms to avoid scams. Never pay money without seeing the property or signing a lease.
Plan for Winter: Chongqing winters can be cold, and many apartments lack central heating. Look for properties with air conditioning units that double as heaters.

8. Summary of Costs

| Expense | Estimated Cost (Monthly) | |----------------------------|-----------------------------| | Rent (1-bedroom, city center) | ¥3,000–¥5,000 ($410–$680) | | Utilities (electricity, water, gas) | ¥200–¥500 ($27–$70) | | Internet | ¥100–¥200 ($14–$27) | | Property Management Fees | ¥100–¥500 ($14–$70) | | Total (Approximate) | ¥3,400–¥6,200 ($460–$850) |

By understanding these details, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the housing market in Chongqing. If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to ask!

Chongqing

Cost of Living