The cost of living in Yiwu

Housing is the largest variable. A modern two-bedroom apartment in a residential compound near the international trade district typically runs a few thousand CNY per month, with a deposit and often several months paid in advance. Landlords generally expect payment quarterly rather than monthly, which is worth knowing before you arrive.

Day-to-day costs are low by the standards of Shanghai or Hangzhou. Local food is inexpensive, public transport and shared bikes cost very little, and mobile data is cheap — a SIM card is around 100 CNY to set up.

For families, international schooling is usually the second-largest cost after rent and deserves early research, since places are limited and fees vary widely.

Do not forget the fixed obligations. If you hold a work residence permit, insurance is 1,740 CNY per month. The health book required on arrival is a one-time 390 CNY for anyone over eighteen. Your company's accounting and annual inspection are annual costs regardless of how much business it does.