It’s interesting seeing the disparity and differences economically here, particularly as base prices are clearly rising. Given an average income of approx. 4000 RMB or less, it’s obvious that Chengdu remains one of the most affordable cities to live in, though that’s definitely dependent on your choices. I choose to live downtown, just as I choose to indulge in certain expenditures, but anyone actively looking to cut spending and save money here could likely manage it with little effort. Drinks alone can vary in price by 100% or more, so that one’s a no brainer! Food too, again dependent on choice.
Though I’ve also been a vegetarian previously, and a great variety of vegetables are available here, I couldn’t do without big chunks of meat, but again even this is an affordable expense in Chegdu.