Living in Chongqing: the ultimate expat guide

Chongqing's economy has been experiencing rapid growth, transforming from a traditional manufacturing hub into a diversified economic center. Foreign professionals will find opportunities across multiple industries, from teaching to technology and from automotive to finance. The city actively recruits international talent to support its development goals.

Key industries and employment sectors

The automotive industry remains a cornerstone of Chongqing's economy, with Changan Automobile headquartered here alongside numerous international manufacturers. The technology sector is rapidly expanding, with growing demand for professionals in artificial intelligence, big data, and software development. Education remains a significant employer for foreign nationals, with positions available in international schools, universities, and language training centers. The logistics and manufacturing sectors also offer opportunities, given Chongqing's strategic position along the Belt and Road Initiative.

Work permits and salaries

To work legally in China, foreign nationals require a Z visa and a Foreigner's Work Permit. Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree, at least two years of relevant experience, a clean criminal record, and health clearance. The process takes approximately 4-8 weeks and requires employer sponsorship. The following table outlines typical employment indicators in Chongqing:

Sources: Numbeo 2025, INS Global 2025

Chongqing hosts a thriving higher education sector, with over 18 universities and colleges welcoming international students. In 2024, more than 9,000 international students chose to study in Chongqing, attracted by quality programs, affordable tuition, and generous scholarship opportunities. The city has positioned itself as a key destination for international education in western China.

Leading universities

Chongqing University (CQU) is the city's premier institution, ranked among China's top universities and part of the prestigious Project 985 and Project 211 programs. CQU excels in architecture, engineering, and management science, offering numerous programs in English for international students. Southwest University (SWU) is renowned for teacher education and agricultural sciences, while Chongqing Medical University stands as one of China's leading medical institutions. Chongqing Jiaotong University specializes in transportation engineering and civil engineering.

Tuition fees and admissions

Tuition fees at Chongqing universities are generally lower than in coastal cities. Bachelor's programs range from CNY 15,000-26,000 per year, while master's programs cost approximately CNY 20,000-49,000 annually. International students can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship, the Chongqing Municipal Government Mayor Scholarship (up to CNY 30,000/year for postgraduates), or university-specific scholarships. Most programs taught in Chinese require HSK Level 4-5 proficiency, though English-taught programs are available at major universities.

Sources: Chongqing University International, iChongqing Education

Chongqing offers several quality international schools catering to expat families, though the selection is more limited than in Beijing or Shanghai. These institutions follow internationally recognized curricula including the International Baccalaureate (IB), American, and British systems, providing continuity for globally mobile families.

Top international schools

Yew Chung International School of Chongqing (YCIS) is the city's first international school registered with the Ministry of Education, established in 2001. Located in Liangjiang New Area, YCIS serves students aged 3-18 and offers the IGCSE and IB Diploma Programme. The school features a unique bilingual model with both Western and Chinese co-teachers. KL International School (KLIS), founded in 2015, provides an American-style curriculum and was ranked #1 in Chongqing on Forbes China's 2025 Top International Schools list. KLIS is a Cognia-accredited institution and serves as an authorized AP/SAT/PSAT test center. Léman International School Chongqing offers an American curriculum with optional IB Diploma for upper grades.

Fees and enrollment

International school tuition in Chongqing varies by grade level. Expect to pay approximately CNY 80,000-150,000 annually for kindergarten, CNY 100,000-200,000 for primary school, and CNY 150,000-300,000 for secondary school. Additional costs include application fees (CNY 1,000-3,000), uniforms (CNY 2,000-5,000), and optional school bus service (CNY 5,000-10,000/year). Admission typically requires transcripts, entrance assessments, and interviews.

Sources: YCIS Chongqing, KL International School

Chongqing's sprawling urban area encompasses nine core districts, each offering distinct living experiences. Rental prices are considerably lower than in China's coastal cities, making comfortable accommodation accessible to most expat budgets. Most apartments come furnished and equipped with basic appliances.

Popular neighborhoods for expats

Yuzhong District is the historic heart of Chongqing, home to the Jiefangbei CBD and major entertainment venues. This densely populated area offers excellent access to restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions but commands higher rents. Jiangbei District has emerged as a modern business hub with sleek high-rises housing major companies including Alibaba. Nan'an District, on the south bank of the Yangtze, provides a blend of modernity and tradition with beautiful parks and riverside views. Shapingba District appeals to those seeking a cultural atmosphere near universities, with lower costs and proximity to the ancient town of Ciqikou.

Rental prices

The following table shows average monthly rents in Chongqing:

Sources: Numbeo 2025

Chongqing offers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and urban entertainment. From ancient temples to neon-lit skylines, the city provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. The dramatic nightscape alone has made Chongqing a social media sensation worldwide.

Must-see attractions

Hongyadong (Hongya Cave) is Chongqing's most iconic landmark—an 11-story stilted building complex clinging to a riverside cliff. At night, its illuminated terraces create a scene reminiscent of the animated film "Spirited Away." Ciqikou Ancient Town dates back to the Ming Dynasty and offers traditional architecture, artisan shops, and famous street snacks including crispy mahua (fried dough twists). The Three Gorges Museum houses over 100,000 artifacts showcasing the region's rich history and Ba-Yu culture. Don't miss Liziba Station, where Metro Line 2 passes directly through a residential building—a testament to Chongqing's creative urban planning.

Day trips and outdoor activities

The Wulong Karst National Geology Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site approximately 150 km from the city, features stunning natural bridges and the magnificent Furong Cave. The Dazu Rock Carvings, another UNESCO site, display over 50,000 Buddhist sculptures from the 9th-13th centuries. For city views, take the Yangtze River Cableway across the river or visit observation decks at Eling Park or the WFC Huixianlou tower. Evening river cruises offer spectacular views of the illuminated skyline.

Sources: China Discovery

Daily life in Chongqing presents a unique blend of convenience and adventure. The city's mountainous terrain creates a distinctive urban landscape where escalators substitute for sidewalks and multi-level structures have entrances on different "ground floors." Expats will find a modern city with efficient public transport and an increasingly international-friendly environment.

Public transportation

The Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT) system is the backbone of urban transport, featuring over 560 km of track across 12 lines as of 2025. The system uniquely combines conventional metro lines with the world's longest monorail network (Lines 2 and 3), designed to navigate the city's steep terrain. Fares start at CNY 2 and increase based on distance, with a maximum of CNY 11. A 24-hour day pass costs CNY 18. Payment options include single-journey tickets, the Yiju Changtong transit card (offering 10% discount), or mobile payment via WeChat Pay and Alipay. Buses complement the metro network at CNY 2 per ride.

Digital life and local customs

China operates on a cashless economy—WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential for daily transactions from street vendors to restaurants. International cards can now be linked to Alipay, simplifying life for newcomers. Note that many Western websites and apps are blocked; a reliable VPN is necessary to access Google, Facebook, and other services. Chongqing residents are known for their warm, straightforward personalities and loud, lively conversations—don't mistake volume for anger! Summers are extremely hot and humid (temperatures reach 38°C+), earning Chongqing its reputation as one of China's "three furnaces."

Sources: WelcomeCQ Metro Guide

One of Chongqing's greatest advantages for expats is its affordability. The cost of living is approximately 45-50% lower than in Shanghai and significantly below Western standards. This allows foreign professionals to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while potentially saving a substantial portion of their income.

Monthly budget for a single person

The following table provides estimated monthly costs for a single expat in Chongqing:

Monthly budget for a family of four

Sources: Numbeo 2025, Expatistan 2025