ShanghaivsPrague
Overall
💰-15.4%
Shanghai is 15.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-18.2%
Housing is 18.2% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-28.6%
Food shopping 28.6% less
Comparing the cost of living between Shanghai, China and Prague, Czech Republic reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Shanghai is more affordable than Prague by approximately 15.4%. 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 higher than in Prague by 22%. A one-bedroom apartment in Shanghai's city center costs around CN¥8,000, while the same in Prague is approximately CZK 20,000.
Dining out in Shanghai costs about the same compared to Prague. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CN¥30 in Shanghai versus CZK 150 in Prague.
Public transportation in Shanghai is more affordable, with monthly passes at CN¥260 compared to CZK 550 in Prague.
Grocery shopping in Shanghai is more expensive by approximately 40%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher 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 Prague, the same lifestyle would cost around CZK 9,098. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CN¥6,930 monthly in Shanghai versus CZK 31,843 in Prague. 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 Prague to Shanghai, 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 Shanghai to Prague 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
Prague
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shanghai more expensive than Prague?
No, Shanghai is approximately 15.4% cheaper than Prague. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Shanghai compared to Prague?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Prague salary when living in Shanghai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Prague, you'd need about $43,333 in Shanghai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Shanghai and Prague?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 40%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Prague offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Shanghai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Shanghai if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Prague for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Shanghai vs Prague?
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 Prague, these figures are CZK 24,098 for singles and CZK 56,843 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Shanghai and Prague in 2025 shows notable 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Prague to maintain your lifestyle from Shanghai
Calculate Salary Equivalence