When planning a move to China from the UK, one of the biggest decisions is choosing where to live. With its vast size and diverse regions, China offers everything from bustling international megacities to slower-paced, culture-rich provincial capitals. Each location has its own advantages for expats depending on your career, lifestyle, and family needs.
Here’s a closer look at the best cities in China for British expats and what life is like in each.
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🏦 Shanghai – The Financial Hub
Shanghai is China’s most international city and a top choice for expats.
- Economy & Jobs: A global financial centre with opportunities in banking, trade, and multinational companies.
- Lifestyle: A blend of modern skyscrapers and colonial-era charm along The Bund.
- Expat Community: One of the largest in China, with international schools, English-speaking services, and Western restaurants.
- Cost of Living: Higher than most Chinese cities — rental prices in central areas can rival London.
👉 Many people searching for removals to Shanghai from the UK are professionals relocating for work contracts in finance, tech, and business.
🎭 Beijing – The Cultural Capital
Beijing is a fascinating mix of history and modernity.
- Economy & Jobs: Ideal for those in government, education, media, and technology.
- Lifestyle: Home to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and countless cultural sites.
- Expat Community: Large and diverse, though English is less widely spoken outside of business circles compared to Shanghai.
- Cost of Living: Slightly cheaper than Shanghai but still among China’s most expensive.
👉 If you’re moving to Beijing from the UK, expect an immersive cultural experience with strong job opportunities.
💻 Shenzhen – The Tech Powerhouse
Shenzhen is China’s answer to Silicon Valley.
- Economy & Jobs: Known as the centre for technology, innovation, and manufacturing. HQ for Huawei, Tencent, and DJI.
- Lifestyle: Ultra-modern city with fast-paced development, a younger population, and close proximity to Hong Kong.
- Expat Community: Growing quickly thanks to booming tech jobs and international investment.
- Cost of Living: More affordable than Shanghai, but rising rapidly.
👉 British entrepreneurs and engineers often search for removals to Shenzhen from the UK as the city thrives with tech opportunities.
🥡 Guangzhou – The Food & Trade City
Guangzhou is famous for both its cuisine and its role as a global trade hub.
- Economy & Jobs: Manufacturing and trade dominate, with strong opportunities in import/export businesses.
- Lifestyle: Known for Cantonese food, lively markets, and subtropical climate.
- Expat Community: Well-established due to decades of international trade.
- Cost of Living: More affordable than Beijing and Shanghai, especially housing.
👉 Many expats searching for relocation to Guangzhou from the UK are drawn to its affordability and business potential.
🐼 Chengdu – The Relaxed Lifestyle
Chengdu is the laid-back capital of Sichuan province.
- Economy & Jobs: Growing opportunities in tech, finance, and education.
- Lifestyle: Slower pace of life, famous for hotpot and the Giant Panda Research Base.
- Expat Community: Smaller than tier-1 cities, but welcoming and close-knit.
- Cost of Living: Much cheaper than Shanghai or Beijing.
👉 If you’re planning a move to Chengdu from the UK, expect affordability, great food, and a gentler lifestyle.
🌉 Hangzhou – The Tech & Culture Blend
Hangzhou combines tradition with high-tech growth.
- Economy & Jobs: Home to Alibaba and a major hub for e-commerce and finance.
- Lifestyle: Famous for West Lake, tea culture, and natural beauty.
- Expat Community: Popular with professionals seeking a balance between career opportunities and scenic living.
- Cost of Living: Mid-range compared to Shanghai and Beijing.
👉 Relocating to Hangzhou is perfect for those who want access to top jobs without the intensity of bigger cities.
✅ Final Thoughts
Choosing the right city is one of the most important steps in your move to China from the UK. Whether you prefer the international lifestyle of Shanghai, the historic richness of Beijing, the tech opportunities in Shenzhen, or the relaxed pace of Chengdu, China has a city for every type of expat.
No matter where you decide to settle, Advance Moves can help you plan your relocation. Their instant Quick Quote system connects you with trusted international movers so you can compare prices and services in minutes.
Start your new life in China with confidence, knowing your move is in safe hands.