Is Shanghai more expensive than Nanjing?

Shanghai is 24.7% more expensive than Nanjing overall. Rent is 115.8% higher, groceries 19.4% more expensive, and restaurants 16.5% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Nanjing or Shanghai?

Nanjing has a purchasing power index of 125.7 while Shanghai has 100.2 (NYC = 100). Nanjing offers better purchasing power.

Nanjing vs Shanghai: Shanghai is 24.7% more expensive, rent 116% higher (2026)

Category	🇨🇳 Nanjing	🇨🇳 Shanghai	Difference
Cost of Living	23.1	28.8	+24.7%
Rent	11.4	24.6	+115.8%
Groceries	34.5	41.2	+19.4%
Restaurants	23.6	27.5	+16.5%
Purchasing Power	125.7	100.2	-20.3%

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 Nanjing

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🇨🇳 Cost of Living in Shanghai

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