Accommodation in Beijing

Accommodation in Beijing can range from fantastic to abysmal, but there are good options for expats in almost every neighbourhood. The trick is to find a neighbourhood that meets your needs, but this, of course, is easier said than done.

The rental market in Beijing has been on a decline, but this is slowly changing as more expats start returning to China. Still, it remains possible to find a good rental deal, as landlords are incentivised to ensure high tenancy rates.

Areas and suburbs in Beijing

Beijing is divided into 16 districts, each offering unique charm and amenities. Chaoyang District is one of the most popular areas among expats thanks to its modern infrastructure and proximity to embassies. Chaoyang is family-friendly while still boasting proximity to the central business district. Lido is another family-friendly area in the city, it is home to many beautiful parks and entertainment.  

Young people often favour areas like Sanlitun, where there are plenty of trendy clubs and serviced apartments. Dongcheng District is the perfect place for you if you're looking for an affordable area where you can also immerse yourself in the local culture. The Xicheng District is another culturally rich area that boasts proximity to many financial institutions, making it perfect for young professionals.  

Read Best (and worst) Areas and Suburbs in Beijing for more on the top neighbourhoods and areas to avoid in the city.  

Types of accommodation in Beijing

Almost all the housing available in the Beijing city centre is in apartment form, and most of these are not particularly spacious. Some expats prioritise having an apartment with a modern kitchen (with counters, refrigerator, and storage, along with the standard sink and a stovetop), and serviced apartments are a popular option for expats and locals alike. However, old-style Beijing apartments may be less accommodating in this department.

Houses are available further outside the city, and these have more amenities, including yards, ovens, and possibly a swimming pool.

Beijing also offers apartment compounds with shared facilities and amenities, such as gyms and playgrounds, which are great for expat families with kids. Young and single expats on a budget in Beijing may also search for house and flat shares to save money.

Accommodation in Beijing may be furnished or unfurnished, and the price should reflect that fact. It’s not guaranteed either way, however, and even less guaranteed is the style in which a place may be furnished. If you need to add decor and furnishings to your accommodation, you can find a fair few places across Beijing to buy furniture or have it made. You should take this into consideration before shipping items from home.

Shipping and Removals in Beijing  

Finding accommodation in Beijing

Most expats use a real estate agent to help them find accommodation in Beijing, especially if they don’t speak Chinese. In all likelihood, agents will be able to show some apartments right away, but you should not get discouraged if you don't find something immediately. Note that agency fees can be quite high and typically equate to one month's rent in Beijing, while rent itself contributes to the cost of living.

New arrivals could ask friends and colleagues for leads. This may allow potential tenants to sidestep the agent and get a better price, which is definitely worth trying.

If you use online platforms, such as FlatInChina and Sublet.com, and conduct your search from outside of Beijing, you are urged to have someone visit the property on your behalf before signing a lease and conducting any financial transaction.

Useful links

• FlatInChina
• Sublet.com

Renting accommodation in Beijing

Once you have found a suitable apartment, you should talk to the landlord (through a translator if necessary) to build rapport. Most problems arise from difficulties with landlords, not from the accommodation itself. 

One thing to look out for when renting in Beijing is ensuring the landlord can provide documents like proof of ownership and proof that the property is registered as a rental with the local government. From there, the tenant and the landlord will discuss and agree upon a contract. 

Leases, costs, and fees  

Leases in Beijing are normally valid for one year. Note that when moving in, expats must register their address at the local Public Service Bureau (PSB) as soon as they move in.

Landlords will generally ask for one or two months' rent up front and one month’s rent as a deposit, so expats should be prepared for this initial sum.

Read Accommodation in China for more on rental processes in the country.  

Utilities in Beijing

Tenants will, most likely, be responsible for paying utilities in Beijing. This includes water, electricity, and gas. Most properties have prepaid electricity meters, and a meter reader may visit and measure water and gas usage. 

Be sure to check with the real estate agent and landlord on how to pay utilities. In most cases, bills are paid through prepaid cards at banks, post offices, and convenience stores.

Electricity

The electricity in Beijing is supplied by the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) and its subsidiaries. Your landlord or real estate agent will typically provide you a top-up card when you move in, and your meter will usually be located by your door in the hallway of your apartment. 

In emergencies, you can easily top up your prepaid card by downloading the State Grid application on your phone and using an online payment method. This will likely be the most efficient method for expats since they won't have to contend with any language barriers. 

Gas

The Beijing Gas Group typically supplies homes with a natural gas pipeline in Beijing. Some apartment buildings and homes may be able to buy gas using a prepaid meter, while others will receive an annual bill from the company. 

If your pipeline has been operational for more than 20 years, the Beijing Gas Group will conduct an annual safety inspection. If it has been operational for less than that, inspections are only conducted biannually. Similarly to electricity, the easiest way to buy gas, make payments, or report issues is to download the Beijing Gas app on your phone. 

Water

The Beijing Water Authority is responsible for supplying and treating the city's water. Due to the presence of pollutants, tap water in Beijing is largely considered unsafe to drink. Many locals and expats buy and drink bottled water, which is readily available from local supermarkets. If you'd like to use tap water to cook, you can buy a water filter and then boil the water to ensure it is safe for consumption. 

Bins and recycling

Beijing's municipality oversees waste management in the city, while local districts also contribute to garbage collection. In 2020, the city implemented a mandatory household waste-sorting policy, requiring residents to sort their waste into recyclable, hazardous, organic, and dry waste. 

Residents are required to dispose their sorted waste at one of 30 disposal sites across the city. You may face serious fines if you do not comply with the mandatory waste-sorting policy. 

Residents must be aware that the smart rubbish bins are fitted with facial recognition systems to encourage adherence to the policy. There are also QR-coded garbage bags that must be disposed of in the correct colour bin. We recommend engaging with your landlord or real estate agent to find out about the specific processes in your building and neighbourhood. 

Useful links 

• State Grid Corporation of China
• Beijing Gas Group
• Beijing Water Authority
• Beijing Municipal Commission of Urban Management