Accommodation in Guangzhou

There are various options for finding accommodation in Guangzhou. At first, most newcomers rent an apartment in the city, usually for a one-year lease period.

Expats living in the city centre often have better access to their workplaces, but have to contend with more pollution and noise. Those choosing to live in the surrounding suburbs might have cleaner air, but will have to navigate the heavy Guangzhou traffic and long public transport commutes.

Areas and suburbs in Guangzhou

Guangzhou has 11 administrative districts, each contributing uniquely to the city’s charm. Many young professionals prefer living in the central districts like Liwan, Tianhe, and Yuexiu but living in these central parts does come with more noise and pollution, so this is something to be aware of.  

There are many family-friendly suburbs in Guangzhou, but it’s essential to carefully consider the distance between your workplace and your children’s schools. Haizhu district is one of the most popular family-friendly districts in Guangzhou, and it boasts luxury properties, cafés, and public transport links.  

Panyu District is also an excellent option that boasts many green spaces, good international schools, and amenities like amusement parks. The suburbs further out from the centre will be more affordable, but you will likely have a longer commute. 

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

Types of accommodation in Guangzhou

Most expats in Guangzhou live in apartments, and each area of the city offers something different. Haizhu, a quieter area, is popular for its high-rise apartments near the Pearl River. Tianhe, on the other hand, has many modern options, including luxury apartments and corporate housing.

High-earning expats often choose serviced apartments or compounds. Serviced apartments come fully furnished, making it easier to settle in when first arriving in Guangzhou.

Compounds include both apartments and villas and often have shared amenities like playgrounds, gardens, gyms, and swimming pools. These are especially popular with expat families.

For those on a budget, like young expats or students, flatshares are a good option.

Finding accommodation in Guangzhou

The easiest way to find accommodation in Guangzhou is through a real estate agency. If you want to take a more hands-on approach, you can search English-language media and online property portals, such as FlatInChina, as well as use social media and personal contacts to network.

The most important thing you need to know going into your search is how you want to live – both in terms of the type of home and the area it is situated in. Many tenants try to live close to their workplace or their children’s school, while others choose to live outside the city but close to public transport.

This decision has to be weighed up against your individual budget. While many people want to live in a cosmopolitan area with fine dining and outdoor activities, not everyone can afford it. Luckily, Guangzhou’s size means that expats will have a wide variety of accommodation options.

Useful links

• FlatInChina
• Fang.com
• Anjuke

Renting accommodation in Guangzhou

For many prospective tenants, the first step is to hire a real estate agent. In expat-friendly areas, local agents often have experience dealing with foreign clients, which makes the rental process a bit easier. Still, it may be necessary to get the help of a bilingual friend or colleague.

You should clearly communicate your requirements for an apartment as well as your budget. Properties in Guangzhou are taken up quickly as demand is high, and time wasted on unsuitable properties can be costly.

To avoid surprises later on, you should ask your agent how much commission you will have to pay after the lease is signed. This is typically a month's rent or a percentage thereof. Before signing the lease, you should also ask about amenities such as air conditioning and the plumbing system and whether the landlord has ownership documents in their possession.

Leases, costs, and fees

Leases in Guangzhou tend to cover rent for one year, though this may vary.

The tenant should provide the landlord and the agency a copy of their passport and visa, and they, in turn, should give the tenant a copy of their property ownership certificate.

As soon as you move in, you should go and register your address at the nearest Public Security Bureau. Tenants pay at least one month's rent deposit plus one or two months' rent upfront.

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

Utilities in Guangzhou

While it's not unusual for utilities to be included in the rent as a set fee, tenants are normally expected to pay utility bills, including water, electricity, and gas directly. Often, there are prepaid electricity meters, while official individuals regularly visit to read meters for gas and water. Prospective tenants must ask the agent or landlord how utilities must be paid.

Electricity

The main electricity supplier in Guangzhou is China Southern Power Grid Company (CSG). Typically, your landlord will provide you with a top-up card when you move in. If not, you will need to contact CSG either in person or telephonically, with your passport, visa, residence permit, and lease agreement. You will also need to fill out an application form and pay the initial fee where applicable. 

Recharging your meter will be easy, with many digital options available online, such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. 

Gas

Guangzhou Gas Group is responsible for providing natural gas in the city. Most apartments in the city already have natural gas connections, so it's likely that you'll receive a top-up card for your meter when you move in, which allows you to purchase credits. 

Those who have to get a contract with the provider in their name must visit a local Guangzhou Gas Group office or contact them telephonically to initiate the process. It's recommended to take a local friend or colleague with who can help you navigate the language barrier. You'll need to fill in an application form and provide the company with your demographic documents and lease agreement. 

Water

Guangzhou Water Supply Company supplies and treats drinking water in the city. Although local authorities assert that the tap water is safe to drink, many locals prefer boiling their drinking water or buying bottled water. It's recommended to buy a water filter for your taps and to rely on bottled water for drinking to ensure you remain safe. 

Bins and recycling

Guangzhou's local municipality and its local districts oversee waste management across the city. The city operates a daily waste collection system that requires mandatory waste sorting at the source. Residents are strongly encouraged to sort their waste into recyclable, dry, hazardous, and organic waste, with separate bins provided for each. 

Residents who fail to comply with the mandatory sorting regulations face fines, so it's important to familiarise yourself with your building's specific requirements. There is also a monthly municipal charge for waste collection and street cleaning which may be included in your monthly rental fee, but it's essential to verify with your landlord or agent. 

Useful links

• China Southern Power Grid Company (CSG)
• Guangzhou Gas Group
• The People's Government of Guangzhou Municipality – Waste Classification