Is Shanghai more expensive than Chengdu?

Shanghai is 40.0% more expensive than Chengdu overall. Rent is 138.2% higher, groceries 18.8% more expensive, and restaurants 18.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Chengdu or Shanghai?

Chengdu has a purchasing power index of 114.8 while Shanghai has 94.6 (NYC = 100). Chengdu offers better purchasing power.

Chengdu vs Shanghai: Cost of Living Comparison (2026)

Category	🇨🇳 Chengdu	🇨🇳 Shanghai	Difference
Cost of Living	29.0	40.6	+40.0%
Rent	10.2	24.3	+138.2%
Groceries	36.2	43.0	+18.8%
Restaurants	21.6	25.6	+18.5%
Purchasing Power	114.8	94.6	-17.6%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Chengdu

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🇨🇳 Chengdu vs 🇨🇳 Shanghai

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