The cost of renting a home in Yiwu
Living costs in Yiwu vary sharply with the kind of building you choose — a low-rise block or a residential tower — and several of the differences land directly on your monthly budget.
Rental housing in Yiwu divides into two kinds: low-rise blocks, usually around five storeys, which suit single people and couples; and residential towers, usually over twenty storeys, with more modern facilities.
Low-rise blocks offer a more traditional way of living. They usually have shared space and a garden, and neighbours know each other. Most have a balcony and outdoor space, which suits anyone wanting somewhere quiet and family-oriented.
Towers appeal more to younger working people who value a gym, a pool and security staff. They tend to be centrally located, with easier access to shopping and public transport.
But the differences are not only about lifestyle — several of them land straight on your monthly bills, and are worth knowing before you sign.
Low-rise blocks: rent usually starts around 1,100 CNY per month and reaches about 3,500 CNY per month for a one or two bedroom unit.
Residential towers: rent is usually paid annually. It starts around 38,000 CNY per year for roughly 77 m² and reaches 80,000 CNY per year for larger units of around 148 m². More luxurious units can exceed 120,000 CNY per year depending on location and facilities.
These are market rents and are not paid to us — you settle directly with the landlord. Renting the company office is a separate matter and is covered on the company registration page.
Which suits you depends on your budget and how you want to live. For somewhere quiet and economical, a low-rise block works well; for better insulation, parking and modern facilities, a tower is the better choice.
The differences that cost money
- Gas: in most low-rise blocks Chinese regulations do not permit gas — particularly where the kitchen is not separated from the living space — so you cook on an electric hob
- Electricity: around 1.3 CNY per kWh in low-rise blocks; 0.3 to 0.8 CNY in towers depending on the time of day
- Insulation: low-rise blocks usually lack double glazing, so heating and cooling them costs more
- Parking: towers have dedicated parking; at low-rise blocks you generally park on the street
- Payment: low-rise is usually monthly; towers often want three to six months, or a full year, in advance
- Size: low-rise units are smaller; tower apartments typically start around 70 m²
The two kinds of housing
Above: a low-rise block of under five storeys. Below: a residential tower.
Frequently asked questions
Why is there no gas in low-rise buildings?
Chinese regulations do not permit it, particularly where the kitchen is not separated from the living space. So you cook electrically and your electricity bill rises — and since the per-unit rate in these buildings is also higher, the two compound.
How is rent paid?
Monthly in low-rise blocks. In towers, landlords often ask for three to six months, or a full year, up front — worth planning for in your first-year cash flow.
Do you charge for finding housing?
No. Your home rent is your own cost, paid directly to the landlord. We only help with the company office lease, and that money goes to the office landlord rather than to us.
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