China vs Indonesia: Which Is Cheaper?
Indonesia is the cheaper country overall — about 26% less than China, or roughly $736 versus $1,001 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 6 and 8 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $332 in Indonesia against $664 in China. Indonesia rates higher on safety (64 vs 59/100). Internet is faster in China (211 vs 31 Mbps). Healthcare scores 68 vs 57/100, favouring China.
China vs Indonesia at a glance
| Metric | China | Indonesia |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,001 | $736 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $664 | $332 |
| Safety | 59/100 | 64/100 |
| Internet | 211 Mbps | 31 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 68/100 | 57/100 |
| Walkability | 63/100 | 35/100 |
| English spoken | 11% | 20% |
| Avg temperature | 72°F | 87°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 8 cities in China and 6 in Indonesia.
Cost range by country
In China, monthly costs run from Guilin at $671 up to Macau at $1,711.
In Indonesia, monthly costs run from Yogyakarta at $671 up to Bali (Denpasar) at $1,311.
China vs Indonesia FAQ
Is China or Indonesia cheaper to live in?
Indonesia is cheaper — about $736 a month for a single person versus $1,001 — roughly 26% less.
Is China or Indonesia safer?
Indonesia scores higher on safety: 64/100 versus 59/100.
Is China or Indonesia better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Indonesia is cheaper ($736 vs $1,001/mo), while China scores higher on healthcare (68 vs 57/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, China or Indonesia?
China has faster internet (211 vs 31 Mbps), but Indonesia stretches a remote income further at $736/mo.
Is China or Indonesia better to visit?
Indonesia is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $736 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (64/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 8 cities in China and 6 in Indonesia.
Which should you choose?
China and Indonesia are closely matched — China leads on faster internet, better healthcare, better walkability, Indonesia on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, higher safety. Choose by the one or two factors that matter most to you.
Choose China for
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Indonesia for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety