Is Shanghai more expensive than Chengdu?

Shanghai is 63.6% more expensive than Chengdu overall. Rent is 148.5% higher, groceries 18.7% more expensive, and restaurants 21.7% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Chengdu or Shanghai?

Chengdu has a purchasing power index of 126.1 while Shanghai has 100.2 (NYC = 100). Chengdu offers better purchasing power.

Chengdu vs Shanghai: Shanghai is 63.6% more expensive, rent 149% higher (2026)

Category	🇨🇳 Chengdu	🇨🇳 Shanghai	Difference
Cost of Living	17.6	28.8	+63.6%
Rent	9.9	24.6	+148.5%
Groceries	34.7	41.2	+18.7%
Restaurants	22.6	27.5	+21.7%
Purchasing Power	126.1	100.2	-20.5%

Data from October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Chengdu

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🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Shanghai

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🇨🇳 Should I Move to Chengdu?

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