Nomads Data

chongqing, China

Asia · Tropical

Rank: 29 | Index: 91.0

Chongqing, a major city in southwest China, offers a distinct experience for digital nomads. With its relatively low cost of living, fast internet speeds, and rich cultural heritage, Chongqing is an attractive option for remote workers. The city's unique geography, with its stunning natural scenery and diverse culinary scene, provides a refreshing change of pace from the more popular expat destinations in China.

Budget FriendlyFast InternetFood ParadiseDN HubAdventure BaseSafe HavenCultural Hub
Monthly Cost
$374
Single · No rent
Internet
203.1Mbps
Fixed broadband
Safety
77
Quality of Life
76.24

At a Glance — chongqing

Nomad Index
Rank: 29 | Index: 91.0
Climate
Tropical · 19°C avg · 169 rainy days/yr
Health
64.58 / 100
Pollution
72.71 / 100
Traffic
144.15 / 100
Rent (1BR)
Centre $432.45 · Outside $183.37
Power Grid
100% electricity access
Coworking
0 spaces
DN Visa
Not available
Data from Numbeo, Ookla, Open-Meteo, World Bank & more

City Personality

Chongqing is a vibrant, fast-paced city with a unique blend of traditional and modern culture.

Best For

  • remote workers seeking affordability
  • digital nomads who value cultural experiences

Less Suitable For

  • those seeking a typical expat community
  • digital nomads who require a high level of English spoken
Lifestyle: Cafe culture is growing, with modern coworking spaces emerging.
Pace: Fast-paced, with a mix of traditional and modern influences

Cost of Living in chongqing

Chongqing offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major Chinese cities. The monthly budget without rent is approximately $374, which covers basic expenses such as meals, transportation, and utilities. Rent prices vary, with a 1-bedroom apartment costing around $432 in the city center and $183 outside the center. To maintain a comfortable lifestyle, digital nomads should budget around $600-$800 per month, including rent, food, and entertainment.

Low cost of livingAffordable rent pricesReasonable food and transportation costs
Total Monthly Cost
$806
Restaurants
$8010%
Groceries
$13817%
Transport
$709%
Utilities
$213%
Clothing
$192%
Leisure
$456%
Rent
$43254%
Living $374+Rent $432=$806
International flights and trip insurance not included.
Numbeo — Cost of Living data

Cost Comparison: Cities in China

chongqing vs chengdu

chongqing
chongqing
$374
/mo
vs
-$4
cheaper
chengdu
chengdu
$370
/mo
Full Comparison

chongqing vs Nanjing

chongqing
chongqing
$374
/mo
vs
+$40
pricier
Nanjing
Nanjing
$414
/mo
Full Comparison

Internet Speed in chongqing

Chongqing boasts fast internet speeds, with a mobile download speed of 162.1 Mbps and a fixed download speed of 203.1 Mbps. The city's internet infrastructure supports video conferencing, cloud development, and file transfers, making it suitable for most remote professions. However, latency rates are relatively high, with a mobile latency of 112.8 ms and a fixed latency of 114.1 ms, which may affect real-time collaboration.

Fast mobile and fixed internet speedsSupports video conferencing and cloud developmentHigh latency rates may affect real-time collaboration

Fixed Broadband

Fiber, cable, or DSL in your apartment

Download
203 Mbps
Upload
38 Mbps
Latency
114 ms
Poor

Mobile Data

4G/5G cellular network

Download
162 Mbps
Upload
36 Mbps
Latency
113 ms
Poor

Remote Work Readiness

Video Calls
HD calls supported
Screen Sharing
Smooth sharing
Cloud Development
Higher ping
Ookla Speedtest Intelligence — Q1 2026

Visa Options for chongqing, China

China does not currently offer a specific Digital Nomad Visa, but several tourist visa options are available.

Chongqing, like the rest of China, has strict visa requirements for foreign nationals. Digital nomads may be eligible for a business visa or a talent visa, but requirements and eligibility vary. It's essential to research and understand the visa requirements before making the move to Chongqing.

Strict visa requirementsBusiness and talent visas availableResearch and understand requirements before moving
Passport Checker — China

See what visa you need for chongqing based on your passport

Pick your passport above to see the visa requirement instantly
Digital Nomad Visa Database — visa policy information

Is chongqing Safe?

Chongqing is considered a safe city, with a low crime rate and a high safety index of 77.19. The city has a strong police presence, and digital nomads can feel comfortable walking alone during the day and at night. However, petty crime and corruption are still concerns, and digital nomads should take normal precautions to stay safe.

Low crime rateHigh safety indexPetty crime and corruption still concerns
Safety Index
77/ 100
Crime index: 22.81
Daylight Safety
84.27/100
Very Safe
Night Safety
73.46/100
Safe

What Residents Worry About

Home break-in
13.69
Mugged or robbed
18.73
Car stolen
14.67
Things stolen from car
19.4
Physically attacked
21.43
Harassment / insults
27.94
Discrimination
15.44

Crime Severity

Drugs
20
Property crimes
25.49
Violent crimes
18.73
Corruption
63.57

Safety Tips for chongqing

  • Familiarize yourself with local laws and keep digital copies of your passport and visa.
Travel Advisory: Level 2Exercise Increased Caution
Risks: crime, terrorism, other
View advisory details
Numbeo — Crime and safety data
Travel advisories — Government travel advisory data

chongqing Climate & Weather

Chongqing has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average of 169 rainy days per year. Digital nomads should be prepared for the heat and humidity during the summer months and the cooler temperatures during the winter months.

Hot summersMild wintersSignificant rainfall throughout the year

chongqing has a Tropical climate.Hot summers and mild winters with year-round rainfall.

Climate Type
Tropical
18.6°C avg · 169 rainy days/yr
Dry Days / Year
255
No rain (≥3 mm)
Daylight Range
10.1h – 13.9h
Varies by 3.8h across the year

Average Daily Temperature

Max TempMin Temp
☀️ Peak Season
Feb – May, Aug – Dec
Comfortable temperatures · Low rainfall
Shoulder Season
Jan, Jun
Warm or mild · Moderate rainfall
❄️ Off Season
Jul
Hot or cold · Heavy rainfall

Daylight Hours

DaylightNight
Open-Meteo Archive API

Healthcare Quality in chongqing

Chongqing has good healthcare options, with a healthcare index of 64.58. The city has both public and private hospitals, and digital nomads can access quality medical care. However, language barriers and limited English spoken by medical staff may be a challenge for some digital nomads.

Good healthcare optionsQuality medical care availableLanguage barriers and limited English spoken
Healthcare Index
64.58/ 100

Quality Scores

Skill & Competency
50
Speed of Exams
68.75
Modern Equipment
75
Accuracy of Reports
56.25

Satisfaction Scores

Staff Friendliness
62.5
Responsiveness / Wait Times
50
Cost Satisfaction
68.75
Convenient Location
81.25
What This Means for Digital Nomads
  • Research English-speaking doctors or clinics with international accreditation before your trip.
Numbeo — Healthcare quality data

Real Estate Market in chongqing

Chongqing offers affordable housing options, with rent prices ranging from $183 to $432 per month for a 1-bedroom apartment. The city's property market is relatively affordable, with a price-to-income ratio of 9.96. Digital nomads can find reasonable housing options, but should research and understand the local market before making a decision.

Affordable rent pricesReasonable housing optionsResearch and understand local market before making a decision
Price-to-Income Ratio
10.0years
Loan affordability: 1.4

Overview

1BR City Centre
$432
1BR Outside
$183
Avg Salary/Mo
$1109
Mortgage Rate
3.5%

Buy vs Rent

Price-to-Income
10.0 yrs
Mortgage % Income
69.4%
Loan Affordability
1.4
Price-to-Rent Centre
26.8
Price-to-Rent Outside
39.7

Rental Yields & Returns

Gross Yield Centre
3.7%
Gross Yield Outside
2.5%

Apartment Prices

City Centre

1-Bedroom$432
3-Bedroom$904
Price per sqm$0

Outside Centre

1-Bedroom$183
3-Bedroom$385
Price per sqm$0
What This Means for Digital Nomads
  • Loan affordability is low — plan for upfront cash payments if considering property.
Numbeo — Property data

Power Grid in China

Chongqing has a stable electricity grid, with a grid access rate of 100%. The city's grid consumption is 6523.7193 kWh per capita, and the grid loss rate is 3.429%. Digital nomads can rely on a stable power supply, but should be aware of the city's energy consumption and grid stability.

Stable electricity gridHigh grid access rateLow grid loss rate
Electricity access
100%
of population in 2023
Consumption
6.5k
kWh per person
Reliability
Reliable
grid stability

Energy Mix

· 64% fossil fuels
61%
13%
Coal61%
Natural Gas3%
Nuclear5%
Hydro13%
Oil0%
World Bank — Power grid statistics

Traffic & Commute in chongqing

Chongqing experiences moderate traffic congestion, with a traffic index of 144.15. The city's commute times are around 46.88 minutes, and digital nomads can use public transportation, taxis, or ride-hailing services to get around. However, traffic congestion can be a challenge during peak hours.

Moderate traffic congestionPublic transportation options availableTraffic congestion during peak hours
Traffic Index
144.15
Avg commute: 46.88 min / 8.75 km

Overview

Avg Commute
46.88 min
Avg Distance
8.75 km
75.0%
Top Mode
Walking
CO₂ Index
225

Traffic Indexes

Time Index
46.9
Time Exp. Index
4435.8
Inefficiency Index
245.7
CO₂ Emission Index
225.0

Commute Mode Split

Walking
75.0%
Bus
25.0%
What This Means for Digital Nomads
  • Traffic congestion is significant — consider accommodation close to co-working spaces or use public transit.
  • With an average commute of 46.88 min, choose accommodation near your daily spots to save time.
  • Traffic inefficiency is high — avoid rush hour travel and plan routes with real-time navigation.
Numbeo — Traffic data

Pollution & Environment in chongqing

Chongqing has poor air quality, with an air quality index of 72.71. The city's pollution levels are a concern, and digital nomads may want to take precautions to minimize their exposure to poor air quality. However, the city's green spaces and parks offer a respite from the urban environment.

Poor air qualityHigh pollution indexGreen spaces and parks available
Pollution Index
72.71/ 100
Cleanliness: 27/100

Overview

Air Quality
32/100
Poor quality
Drinking Water
40/100
Moderate quality
Green Spaces
57/100
Good quality
Noise Level
38/100
Noisy

Pollution Levels — Lower is better

Air pollution
68.33
Drinking water pollution
59.62
Noise & light pollution
62.5
Water pollution
66
Dirty / untidy
54.81

Quality Metrics — Higher is better

Air quality
31.67
Drinking water quality
40.38
Garbage disposal
48.08
Clean & tidy
45.19
Water quality
34

Livability

Green & parks quality
57
Comfortable to walk
43.75
Quiet at night
37.5
What This Means for Digital Nomads
  • Consider an air purifier for your apartment, especially during high-pollution months.
  • Stick to bottled or filtered water — tap water quality is a concern.
  • Look for accommodation on quiet streets or higher floors to escape noise and light pollution.
  • Avoid swimming in local rivers or lakes — water pollution levels are elevated.
  • Some areas may be less tidy — research neighborhoods before committing to a longer stay.
Numbeo — Pollution data

Frequently Asked Questions About chongqing

What is the cost of living in Chongqing?
The cost of living in Chongqing is relatively low, with a monthly budget without rent of approximately $374. Rent prices vary, with a 1-bedroom apartment costing around $432 in the city center and $183 outside the center.
What are the internet speeds like in Chongqing?
Chongqing has fast internet speeds, with a mobile download speed of 162.1 Mbps and a fixed download speed of 203.1 Mbps.
Are there coworking spaces available in Chongqing?
Chongqing's coworking scene is still in its early stages, with limited options available. Remote workers often rely on cafes, business centers, or home offices to get work done.
What are the visa requirements for Chongqing?
Chongqing, like the rest of China, has strict visa requirements for foreign nationals. Digital nomads may be eligible for a business visa or a talent visa, but requirements and eligibility vary.
Is Chongqing a safe city?
Chongqing is considered a safe city, with a low crime rate and a high safety index of 77.19.
What is the climate like in Chongqing?
Chongqing has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with an average of 169 rainy days per year.
What are the healthcare options like in Chongqing?
Chongqing has good healthcare options, with a healthcare index of 64.58. The city has both public and private hospitals, and digital nomads can access quality medical care.
What are the housing options like in Chongqing?
Chongqing offers affordable housing options, with rent prices ranging from $183 to $432 per month for a 1-bedroom apartment.
Is the electricity grid stable in Chongqing?
Chongqing has a stable electricity grid, with a grid access rate of 100%. The city's grid consumption is 6523.7193 kWh per capita, and the grid loss rate is 3.429%.
What are the traffic congestion levels like in Chongqing?
Chongqing experiences moderate traffic congestion, with a traffic index of 144.15. The city's commute times are around 46.88 minutes, and digital nomads can use public transportation, taxis, or ride-hailing services to get around.
What is the air quality like in Chongqing?
Chongqing has poor air quality, with an air quality index of 72.71. The city's pollution levels are a concern, and digital nomads may want to take precautions to minimize their exposure to poor air quality.
What are some nearby destinations to explore?
Chongqing is situated in a region with several nearby destinations, including the scenic city of Wulong and the historic town of Dazu.

Key Takeaways

Quick insights for each category

Affordability in Chongqing: A Digital Nomad's Perspective

Chongqing is an affordable option for digital nomads, with a low cost of living and reasonable rent prices.

Fast Internet Speeds in Chongqing: A Remote Worker's Delight

Chongqing's fast internet speeds make it an attractive option for remote workers, but high latency rates may impact real-time collaboration.

Chongqing's Emerging Coworking Scene

Chongqing's coworking scene is limited, but growing, and remote workers may need to rely on alternative workspaces.

Navigating Visa Requirements in Chongqing

Chongqing's visa requirements can be complex, and digital nomads should research and understand the requirements before moving.

A Safe and Secure Environment in Chongqing

Chongqing is a safe city with a low crime rate, but digital nomads should still take precautions to stay safe.

Chongqing's Unique Climate: Hot Summers and Mild Winters

Chongqing's climate is characterized by hot summers and mild winters, with significant rainfall throughout the year.

Good Healthcare Options in Chongqing

Chongqing has good healthcare options, but digital nomads may face language barriers and limited English spoken by medical staff.

Affordable Housing Options in Chongqing

Chongqing offers affordable housing options, with a relatively low price-to-income ratio.

Stable Electricity Grid in Chongqing

Chongqing has a stable electricity grid, with a high grid access rate and low grid loss rate.

Moderate Traffic Congestion in Chongqing

Chongqing experiences moderate traffic congestion, with a traffic index of 144.15.

Poor Air Quality in Chongqing

Chongqing has poor air quality, with a high pollution index.

Exploring Nearby Destinations

Chongqing has several nearby destinations, including Wulong and Dazu.