Areas and suburbs in Shenzhen

The best places to live in Shenzhen

Shenzhen is one of China’s fastest-growing expat destinations. Rapid expansion and urbanisation have resulted in skyrocketing rent prices, so expats hoping to live near the city centre should expect to pay for the privilege.

Shenzhen is home to one of China’s Special Economic Zones (SEZ). Thanks to its more liberal economic policies and practices, this megacity has become a hub for multinational companies. As such, many areas of the city are commercial and business-oriented but equally promote a positive work-life balance.

When searching for a place to live in Shenzhen, choosing an area that makes commuting to work or school easier is important. Commutes between some parts of the city can take up to 90 minutes during rush hour.

The city is divided into nine administrative districts and one new management area, providing housing options for families and individuals. Below are some of the most popular areas and suburbs in Shenzhen.

Accommodation in Shenzhen

Family-friendly areas in Shenzhen

Among the preferred areas for expat families are Nanshan and its sub-district, Shekou. Yantian is a more peaceful option for families and offers easy access to the beach, but it is further away from the city than expats may like.

Nanshan

Nanshan is one of the most popular areas in Shenzhen and is often called the city’s garden district. It has a large expat community and is especially loved for its clean environment and easy access to green spaces.

Expat families like living in Nanshan because it’s close to many good international schools. The apartments here are high-quality, and there are also luxury serviced apartments available.

Nanshan’s accessible metro, bus, and taxi services make getting around Shenzhen simple, albeit busy during rush hour. The ferry terminal also offers residents a quick and easy way to visit nearby Hong Kong.

Shekou

Shekou is a part of Nanshan district but stands out because it’s popular with expats. This small neighbourhood has one of the largest expat communities in Shenzhen. Newcomers can easily find housing in one of Shekou’s many residential complexes, which typically include gardens, swimming pools, and gyms.

The area also has a lot of international schools, making it a convenient choice for families. If you enjoy dining out or nightlife, Shekou has plenty of great restaurants, pubs, and bars.

Some new arrivals say they feel cut off from the rest of Shenzhen. If you want to avoid the ‘expat bubble’ and experience more local culture, you might consider living in areas like Futian or Luohu instead.

Areas for young professionals in Shenzhen

Young and outgoing expats who move to Shenzhen to pursue work or education may be drawn to the buzzing atmosphere and social lifestyle in areas such as Futian and Luohu.

Futian

Futian is Shenzhen’s main business and administrative district. It’s a busy, modern area with famous landmarks like the Shenzhen Stock Exchange building, Shenzhen Library, and Concert Hall. Some of the tallest buildings in China shape Futian’s skyline, giving it a truly urban vibe.

Futian is one of Shenzhen's priciest and most exclusive areas. Its stylish and modern apartments are especially popular with young, single professionals.

Although there are a few international schools in Futian, family-sized apartments are exorbitant. The district doesn’t have much green space, but it makes up for that with an exciting nightlife, full of bars, cafés, restaurants, and shopping centres.

Traffic during rush hour is a big problem, so it’s best to live close to work. Fortunately, Futian has excellent public transport options.

Luohu

Luohu, one of Shenzhen’s oldest districts, was once a fishing village but is now a hub for trade and finance. Living here gives expats a mix of the city’s history, culture, and modern lifestyle.

The district is a shopping haven, offering everything from luxury designer brands to expensive antiques. Residents can also enjoy a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, karaoke lounges, and nightclubs.

For nature lovers, Luohu has beautiful spots like Wutong Mountain and scenic rivers to explore. Housing in Luohu is more affordable than in areas like Nanshan or Futian, although apartments tend to be smaller and older.