Wise Logo
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a trusted money transfer service used by millions of digital nomads worldwide.

Smart money transfers worldwide.

Affiliate disclosure

Nanjing vs Shenzhen – Digital Nomad Guide

Trying to decide between Nanjing, China and Shenzhen, China? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.

💰 Cost of Living

Nanjing has a monthly cost of $2,140, which is 35.5% lower than Shenzhen's $3,320.

🌐 Internet Infrastructure

For internet speeds, Nanjing offers 60 Mbps, while Shenzhen provides 150 Mbps making Shenzhen's connection 150.0% faster .

☀️ Current Weather

The weather in Nanjing is currently 30°C 🌤️, while Shenzhen is experiencing 30°C 🌤️.

🛡️ Safety Comparison

Nanjing has a safety score of 79.0 , while Shenzhen scores 76.0 .

Costs
$2,140
per month
Internet
60
Mbps
Weather
30° 🌤️
High today
Costs
$3,320
per month
Internet
150
Mbps
Weather
30° 🌤️
High today
GetStake Logo
GetStake allows you to invest in fractional real estate in Dubai's premium properties, with investments starting from just $500.

Own shares in Dubai properties.

Affiliate disclosure

Overall

59.0
Overall Score
58.0

Quality of Life Nanjing wins

79.0
Safety
76.0
73.0
Healthcare
65.0

Nanjing is 8% better

Cost Nanjing wins

61.0
Cost of Living
41.0

Nanjing is 20% better

Climate Nanjing wins

43.0
Air Quality
30.0

Nanjing is 13% better

Infrastructure Shenzhen wins

74.0
Internet Speed
87.0

Shenzhen is 13% better

Social Nanjing wins

55.0
Nightlife
61.0

Shenzhen is 6% better

81.0
Culture
73.0

Nanjing is 8% better

84.0
Food Scene
75.0

Nanjing is 9% better

Total Cost of Living Comparison

Category Nanjing Shenzhen Difference
Monthly Total $2,140 $3,320 -35.5%
Daily Average $71 $111 per day

Housing

Item Nanjing Shenzhen Difference
Apartment (1 bedroom) $350.00 per month $650.00 per month -46.2%

Daily Life

Item Nanjing Shenzhen Difference
Coffee $1.50 per cup $2.50 per cup -40.0%

Transportation

Item Nanjing Shenzhen Difference

Utilities

Item Nanjing Shenzhen Difference
Revolut Logo
Revolut Ultra offers premium banking with global perks like lounge access, data, subscriptions, and insurance, ideal for frequent travelers.

Lounge access & subscriptions.

Affiliate disclosure

Final Verdict: Nanjing vs Shenzhen

Nanjing ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 1.0% higher than Shenzhen overall.

💰 Cost Analysis

  • Monthly Budget: $2,140 vs $3,320
  • Daily Expenses: $71 vs $111
  • Nanjing is 35.5% cheaper for digital nomads

🌐 Infrastructure

  • Internet Speed: Shenzhen leads with 60% faster connection
  • Public Transport: Shenzhen has better public transportation

🎯 Key Advantages

Nanjing Wins In:
  • Healthcare (8% better)
  • Cost of Living (20% better)
  • Air Quality (13% better)
  • Culture (8% better)
  • Food Scene (9% better)
Shenzhen Wins In:
  • Internet Speed (13% better)
  • Nightlife (6% better)

💡 Final Recommendation

Choose Nanjing if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Healthcare. However, Shenzhen might be preferable if Healthcare is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.

Wise Logo
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is a trusted money transfer service used by millions of digital nomads worldwide.

Send money abroad cheaper than banks.

Affiliate disclosure

Feedback Thank You!

Thank you!

Your feedback has been submitted successfully.