How Much Are Houses in China? 2025 Price Guide
（中国买房要花多少钱？2025 指南）
House prices in China vary dramatically by city tier, location, and property type. This comprehensive guide provides current price ranges, cost breakdowns, and eligibility requirements for both domestic and foreign buyers. All figures represent indicative ranges based on market reports updated November 2025.
Important: Prices shown are sample ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by specific location, property condition, and market timing. All prices are shown in USD for international readers. CNY references available upon request (1 USD ≈ 7.2 CNY as of November 2025).
Quick Navigation
China Property Market at a Glance
China's property market is primarily driven by location, with significant price variations between city tiers, districts within cities, school catchment areas, subway accessibility, and building age. New developments from reputable developers typically command premium prices.
Tier-1 Cities
Typical Range: $6,900-20,800/㎡
70-100㎡ Total: $485,000-2.08 million
Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, GuangzhouNew Tier-1 Cities
Typical Range: $2,780-8,330/㎡
70-100㎡ Total: $194,000-833,000
Hangzhou, Chengdu, Nanjing, Wuhan, etc.Tier-2 Cities
Typical Range: $2,080-5,560/㎡
70-100㎡ Total: $139,000-556,000
Xi'an, Chongqing, Hefei, and othersCity Tiers & Typical Budgets
Tier-1 Cities (一线城市)
Beijing (北京): Core districts $11,100-20,800/㎡, outer areas $5,560-11,100/㎡. School district premiums can exceed $27,800/㎡ in top areas.
Shanghai (上海): Inner ring $9,720-16,670/㎡, middle ring $6,940-11,100/㎡, outer ring $4,860-8,330/㎡.
Shenzhen (深圳): Futian/Nanshan $11,100-19,440/㎡, Longgang/Bao'an $6,250-9,720/㎡.
Guangzhou (广州): Tianhe/Yuexiu $6,940-11,100/㎡, Panyu/Huangpu $4,170-6,940/㎡.
New Tier-1 & Strong Tier-2 Cities
Hangzhou (杭州): West Lake area $5,560-9,720/㎡, tech districts $4,860-7,640/㎡.
Chengdu (成都): Central areas $2,780-5,560/㎡, new developments $3,470-4,860/㎡.
Nanjing (南京): City center $4,860-7,640/㎡, suburban areas $2,780-4,860/㎡.
Wuhan (武汉): Core districts $2,780-4,860/㎡, outer areas $2,080-3,470/㎡.
Total Cost Overview
Beyond the property price, buyers face additional costs typically ranging 3-8% of the purchase price:
Deed Tax (契税)
1-3% based on property size and buyer status. First-time buyers of smaller properties often qualify for reduced rates.
VAT & Surcharges
5.6% for properties owned less than 2 years (varies by city). Properties over 2 years may be exempt.
Agent & Other Fees
Real estate agent (1-3%), property assessment, mortgage registration, and notary fees typically total 1-2%.
Can Foreigners Buy Property?
Foreign nationals can purchase property in China with restrictions:
- Residence Requirement: Valid residence permit or work visa
- Purpose Limitation: Self-residence only (not for investment)
- Quantity Restriction: Typically one property per person/family
- City Variations: Requirements differ by location and change frequently
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are houses in China on average?
There's no single "average" due to vast regional differences. Tier-1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou) typically range $6,900-20,800/㎡, while Tier-2 cities range $2,080-6,940/㎡. For a standard 70-100㎡ apartment, expect $139,000-2.08 million depending on location and quality.
What is the total cost including taxes and fees?
Total costs typically add 3-8% to the property price. This includes deed tax (1-3%), VAT and surcharges (0-5.6% depending on property age), individual income tax (0-1% in some cases), agent fees (1-3%), and various administrative costs (0.5-1%).
Can foreigners buy property in China?
Yes, with restrictions. Foreigners need valid residence permits, can only buy for self-residence (not investment), are limited to one property in most cities, and must navigate city-specific requirements that change frequently. Professional legal guidance is essential.
Is it cheaper to buy new or second-hand?
Second-hand properties often offer better value per square meter but may require renovation. New properties come with modern amenities and warranties but carry developer premiums. Transaction costs are similar, though VAT exemptions may apply to older second-hand properties.
Sources & Disclaimer
Data Sources: Price ranges compiled from National Bureau of Statistics reports, local housing bureaus, real estate research institutes, and major property platforms. Figures represent market snapshots and indicative ranges, not precise valuations.
Last Updated: November 2025
Disclaimer: All information is for reference only and does not constitute investment advice or transaction commitments. Property prices fluctuate frequently, and policies change regularly. Always consult official sources, legal professionals, and current market data before making purchase decisions. Currency conversions are illustrative and based on approximate exchange rates.
Geographic Note: Price ranges prioritize second-hand properties in main urban areas unless otherwise specified. New development prices and suburban areas may vary significantly.