While major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai are still in the running, it is Hangzhou that has won the hearts of expats looking for a home away from home. Here’s why the city is such a big hit.
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The Economy
Having been on a steady incline since the early 1990s, the Hangzhou economy shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. The highly industrial city, with many manufacturing and logistics related sectors, is one of coastal China’s best business hotspots. Alibaba and other e-commerce brands as well as high-tech companies have set up shop here due to these very reasons while companies belonging to the electronics, medical, and food processing sectors have also moved to the city in recent years.
Public Transportation Networks
Another reason expats prefer Hangzhou to most other locations in mainland China is that the city is well-connected to the global capitals of the world. Direct international flights from the USA, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia and Portugal are available and those who reside in the city will find that it is also connected with nearly 50 big cities across China. Subway lines, bus services, electric scooters and taxis also allow residents to travel efficiently in addition to the free bike rental service in place.
Cost Of Living
Although it is one of the wealthiest cities in the country, Hangzhou has tactfully avoided being one of the most expensive cities to live in. offering more affordable housing options than Shanghai or Beijing, lyf Mid-Town Hangzhou and countless other Hangzhou apartments have made affordable luxury a possibility here.
Educational Institutions
The sheer number of international schools and internationally accredited educational institutes in Hangzhou makes it an attractive location for families looking to move to China.