Average Salary in China (2025)

Understanding the average salary in China (2025) is essential for professionals, expats, and businesses looking to tap into the world’s second-largest economy. China offers a wide range of salary levels, depending on city, industry, and education. While wages are lower than in the United States or Europe, China’s rapidly growing economy and lower cost of living make it an attractive destination for many.

In this guide, we’ll explore China’s average income, minimum wage laws, industry-based salaries, and the relationship between cost of living vs salary.

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Average Salary in China: An Overview

In 2025, the average salary in China is approximately ¥140,000 per year (around $19,500), or about ¥11,600 per month ($1,600). However, salaries vary significantly by city and industry.

• Median Salary: ¥120,000/year ($16,800)
• Top 10% Earners: Above ¥400,000/year ($55,000+)
• Entry-Level Workers: ¥60,000–¥80,000/year ($8,000–$11,000)

This places China above many Asian countries in terms of wages but still below developed economies like the USA, UK, and Germany.

🔗 Looking beyond China? Read about the Average Salary in India (2025).

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Industry-Wise Salary Breakdown in China (2025)

Different sectors in China offer varied salaries:

• Technology & IT – ¥250,000 to ¥400,000/year ($35,000–$55,000)
• Finance & Banking – ¥200,000 to ¥350,000/year ($28,000–$48,000)
• Healthcare (Doctors & Nurses) – ¥150,000 to ¥280,000/year ($21,000–$39,000)
• Engineering & Manufacturing – ¥120,000 to ¥220,000/year ($17,000–$30,000)
• Education – ¥100,000 to ¥180,000/year ($14,000–$25,000)
• Hospitality & Retail – ¥70,000 to ¥120,000/year ($9,800–$17,000)

China’s booming tech sector and financial hubs like Shanghai and Shenzhen are driving higher salaries compared to rural areas.

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Minimum Wage in China (2025)

Unlike the USA, China’s minimum wage varies by province and city. In 2025, the highest minimum wages are found in major metropolitan areas:

• Shanghai: ¥2,690/month
• Beijing: ¥2,420/month
• Shenzhen: ¥2,360/month
• Smaller Cities & Provinces: ¥1,500–¥1,800/month

This wide range highlights the difference in living standards across China.

🔗 Looking beyond China? Read about the Average Salary in Australia (2025).

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Cost of Living vs Salary in China

The average wage in China must always be compared with the cost of living.

• Tier 1 cities (Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen): Higher salaries but expensive housing, transportation, and food. A salary of ¥250,000/year may feel modest due to high living expenses.
• Tier 2 & 3 cities (Chengdu, Wuhan, Xian): Lower salaries but also significantly cheaper living costs, making income more sustainable.

For expats earning international salaries, living in China often provides strong savings potential due to affordable services, food, and healthcare.

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Salary Trends in China (2025)

China’s salary trends in 2025 show growth in:

• Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
• Green Energy & Sustainability Jobs
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
• Finance & Investment Banking

However, wages in retail, hospitality, and traditional manufacturing remain relatively stagnant.

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How China’s Salaries Compare Globally

Compared to the average salary worldwide, China is in the mid-range. Salaries are higher than in many developing countries but lower than in Western economies.

• USA: $63,000/year
• UK: $48,000/year
• China: $19,500/year
• India: $9,000/year

👉 For a full comparison, visit our Average Salary Worldwide (2025) guide.

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Conclusion

In summary, the average salary in China (2025) is around ¥140,000/year ($19,500), with wide variations by city and industry. While wages are lower than in Western nations, China’s cost of living vs salary balance makes it a competitive choice for both locals and expats.

Understanding the differences in minimum wage in China, salary trends, and city-based earnings is crucial for anyone considering career opportunities in the country.

👉 For a full comparison, visit our Average Salary Worldwide (2025) guide.