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How to Rent an Apartment in China: Complete Guide for Foreigners 2026
Finding a place to stay is one of the biggest challenges for foreigners moving to China. Whether you're planning a long-term stay or settling in for work, this guide covers everything you need to know about renting an apartment.
Where to Find Rental Properties
China has a well-developed rental market with many agencies offering online platforms and mobile apps. You can search for properties based on location, rent, apartment type, and condition. Some popular platforms include:
- Lianjia / Beike (链家/贝壳) — One of the largest real estate platforms
- Anjuke (安居客) — Popular for rental listings in major cities
- Ziroom (自如) — Managed apartment rentals, popular with young professionals
You can also visit a rental agency's physical store and work with an agent in person.
Signing a Rental Contract
- Negotiate terms — Discuss the rental period (usually 1 year), monthly rent, deposit (typically 1–3 months' rent), and repair responsibilities.
- Sign a contract — We strongly recommend a bilingual contract (Chinese + English) with one language specified as the governing language.
- Pay fees — Typically, you'll pay the deposit plus the first month's rent upfront.
- Register with property management — Report to the property management office to complete move-in.
💡 Tip: Always inspect the apartment thoroughly before signing. Check water pressure, appliances, windows, and locks. Take photos of any existing damage.
Typical Rental Costs
| City | 1-Bedroom (City Center) | 1-Bedroom (Outside Center) |
|---|
| Beijing | ¥5,000–¥10,000 | ¥3,000–¥5,000 |
| Shanghai | ¥5,500–¥12,000 | ¥3,500–¥6,000 |
| Guangzhou | ¥3,500–¥7,000 | ¥2,000–¥4,000 |
| Chengdu | ¥2,000–¥4,500 | ¥1,500–¥2,500 |
Things Foreigners Should Know
- Police registration: By law, register your address with the local police station (派出所) within 24 hours of moving in.
- Payment terms: Most landlords require "押一付三" (deposit one month, pay three months upfront).
- Utilities: Clarify whether water, electricity, gas, internet, and property fees are included.
- Agent fees: Typically one month's rent, split between landlord and tenant.
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