ShanghaivsCopenhagen
Overall
💰+35.4%
Shanghai is 35.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+27.3%
Housing is 27.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+111.1%
Restaurants 111.1% pricier
Groceries
🛒+21.4%
Food shopping 21.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Shanghai, China and Copenhagen, Denmark reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Shanghai is more expensive than Copenhagen by approximately 35.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Shanghai are lower than in Copenhagen by 21%. A one-bedroom apartment in Shanghai's city center costs around CN¥8,000, while the same in Copenhagen is approximately DKK 12,000.
Dining out in Shanghai offers significant savings compared to Copenhagen. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CN¥30 in Shanghai versus DKK 120 in Copenhagen.
Public transportation in Shanghai is more affordable, with monthly passes at CN¥260 compared to DKK 750 in Copenhagen.
Purchasing power in Copenhagen is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Shanghai.
Grocery shopping in Shanghai is more affordable by approximately 18%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Shanghai can expect to spend approximately CN¥1,980 per month (excluding rent), while in Copenhagen, the same lifestyle would cost around DKK 4,448. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CN¥6,930 monthly in Shanghai versus DKK 15,568 in Copenhagen. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Shanghai to Copenhagen, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Copenhagen to Shanghai requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Shanghai
Copenhagen
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shanghai more expensive than Copenhagen?
Yes, Shanghai is approximately 35.4% more expensive than Copenhagen overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Shanghai compared to Copenhagen?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Copenhagen salary when living in Shanghai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Copenhagen, you'd need about $67,692 in Shanghai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Shanghai and Copenhagen?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 53%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Copenhagen offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Copenhagen provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Shanghai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Copenhagen for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Shanghai vs Copenhagen?
In Shanghai, a single person needs approximately CN¥6,480 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CN¥16,930. In Copenhagen, these figures are DKK 13,448 for singles and DKK 31,568 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Shanghai and Copenhagen in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Copenhagen to maintain your lifestyle from Shanghai
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