Beijing city
Beijing is not only the political capital of China but also its cultural, educational, and technological hub.
This city offers students a unique learning experience in an atmosphere where the ancient history of imperial palaces harmoniously blends with futuristic skyscrapers.
Thanks to world-class educational standards, a rich cultural heritage, and a rapid pace of innovation, Beijing attracts thousands of international students every year.
However, life in such a megalopolis has its own specific features.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key aspects of student life in Beijing—from the economy and housing to transport and climate.
💰Economy & Cost of Living
Beijing is rightfully considered one of the most dynamic cities in the world, and the level of expenses here depends on the student’s lifestyle. With reasonable planning, one can live comfortably without exceeding a student budget.
Average student expenses in Beijing:
Housing Rental: Rental costs are quite high. Apartments near the city center cost between 4,000–7,000 RMB (550–950 USD) per month. Prices are lower outside the center. Many students choose to live in campus dormitories.
Food: Food expenses amount to about 1,500–2,500 RMB (200–350 USD) per month. Buying groceries at supermarkets and cooking at home is significantly cheaper than eating at restaurants.
Transport: Public transport in Beijing is very affordable. A monthly pass costs about 100–200 RMB (15–30 USD).
Additional Expenses: Entertainment, cultural events, and personal purchases cost approximately 500–1,000 RMB (70–140 USD) per month.
💡 Tip: To save money, use payment systems like Alipay or WeChat Pay and shop at local stores that offer sales and discounts.
🏠Student Accommodation
Due to high rental costs, many students choose budget-friendly accommodation options:
Dormitories (Campuses): The most accessible option offered by universities. The cost ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 RMB (140–350 USD) per month. Advantages include proximity to classrooms and better socialization.
Flat-sharing: Students often team up to rent an apartment together, which helps reduce costs while maintaining a high level of comfort.
Private Apartment Rental: Suitable for those who value privacy. The cost is higher, but it offers maximum comfort.
As a company, Student’s Life, we help students find safe housing. Furthermore, the cost of one year of accommodation is included in all our preparatory packages in China.
🚇Transport & Infrastructure
Beijing possesses one of the most developed and efficient transport systems in the world.
Beijing Subway: One of the largest and most modern systems globally. It consists of numerous lines connecting all districts of the city and operates from early morning until midnight.
Buses: The ground transport network is perfectly integrated with the subway and covers even the most remote areas.
Bicycles: Beijing is a city of bicycles. Bike-sharing services (such as Meituan or HelloBike) are very popular, allowing you to rent a bike via an app anywhere in the city.
🌦️Climate
Beijing has a continental climate with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers.
Season Temperature Features
❄️ Winter (Nov–Mar) –5°C to –10°C Cold, windy, and dry weather.
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) +25°C…+35°C Hot, with periods of rain and high humidity.
💡 Tip: Warm clothing (a down jacket, hat, and gloves) is essential from November to March, while in summer, light clothing and sun protection are necessary.