If you are planning to move to Shanghai, one of the first questions you will probably ask is: How much does a serviced apartment in Shanghai cost?
The answer depends on several factors, including location, apartment size, building quality, furnishings, facilities, lease length, and whether you choose a luxury or more affordable serviced apartment.
In general, serviced apartments in Shanghai range from relatively affordable studios and one-bedroom apartments to premium three-bedroom residences in central neighborhoods. Understanding the different price factors can help you choose an apartment that fits both your lifestyle and budget.
If you are still at the beginning of your apartment search, our guide on How to Find a Serviced Apartment in Shanghai explains how to compare neighborhoods, apartment types, lease terms, facilities, and other factors before choosing a property.
This guide focuses specifically on serviced apartment prices in Shanghai, including what you can expect to pay in different areas, what is usually included in the rent, and how to calculate the real cost of your accommodation.
What Is the Average Cost of a Serviced Apartment in Shanghai?
There is no single standard price for a serviced apartment in Shanghai because the market covers a wide range of properties.
As a general guide, you may encounter:
- Studio serviced apartments: approximately RMB 6,000–15,000+ per month
- One-bedroom serviced apartments: approximately RMB 8,000–20,000+ per month
- Two-bedroom serviced apartments: approximately RMB 12,000–30,000+ per month
- Three-bedroom serviced apartments: approximately RMB 18,000–40,000+ per month
- Luxury serviced apartments: RMB 30,000+ per month in premium locations and residences
These are broad market ranges rather than fixed prices. Actual rental prices can vary significantly depending on the building, location, season, apartment condition, facilities, and lease terms.
For example, a modern serviced apartment in central Jing’an may cost considerably more than a similar-sized apartment farther from the city center.
For current options, you can browse our serviced apartments in Shanghai category and compare available properties by location, size, and accommodation type.
What Determines Serviced Apartment Prices in Shanghai?
When comparing serviced apartments, don’t look only at the monthly rent.
Several factors can influence the final price.
1. Location
Location is one of the biggest factors affecting rental prices in Shanghai.
Apartments located close to major business districts, international schools, shopping areas, restaurants, and Metro stations generally command higher rents.
Popular areas include:
- Jing’an
- Xuhui
- French Concession
- Huangpu
- Lujiazui
- Pudong
- Hongqiao
- Changning
- Hongkou
- North Bund
Central Puxi neighborhoods such as Jing’an, Xuhui, and parts of Huangpu are particularly popular with international residents because they combine convenient transportation with restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and established residential communities.
Pudong, especially around Lujiazui, is popular with professionals working in Shanghai’s financial and business districts.
If you are unsure which neighborhood fits your lifestyle, our guide to finding a serviced apartment in Shanghai can help you compare location, transportation, apartment size, and other important factors.
2. Apartment Size
Naturally, larger apartments generally cost more.
A studio may be suitable for a single professional, while a one-bedroom apartment offers more separation between the living and sleeping areas.
For couples or small families, a two-bedroom serviced apartment may offer a better balance between space and price.
Larger three-bedroom apartments are commonly chosen by families who need additional bedrooms, work-from-home space, or more living areas.
However, price per square meter can sometimes be lower for larger apartments.
Serviced Apartment Prices by Apartment Type
Studio Serviced Apartments
Studio apartments are usually the most affordable option.
They can work well for:
- Single professionals
- Short-term business travelers
- Students
- People relocating to Shanghai
- Couples who don’t need separate bedrooms
Depending on the location and building, a studio may include a living area, sleeping area, kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom, and basic furniture.
If your priority is keeping monthly rent low while maintaining hotel-style convenience, a studio can be a practical choice.
One-Bedroom Serviced Apartments
One-bedroom apartments are among the most popular options for individuals and couples.
They normally provide:
- Separate bedroom
- Living room
- Kitchen or kitchenette
- Bathroom
- Furnished living space
- Building services
A one-bedroom serviced apartment in a central Shanghai neighborhood can be significantly more expensive than one in an outer district.
The difference is often related to access to business districts, transportation, restaurants, shopping, and international amenities.
Two-Bedroom Serviced Apartments
Two-bedroom apartments are commonly chosen by couples with children, small families, colleagues sharing accommodation, or professionals who want an additional office or guest room.
When comparing two-bedroom apartments, consider not only the number of bedrooms but also:
- Total floor area
- Number of bathrooms
- Kitchen size
- Storage
- Living room size
- Balcony or outdoor space
- Building facilities
Two apartments with the same number of bedrooms can have very different levels of comfort.
Three-Bedroom Serviced Apartments
Three-bedroom serviced apartments are generally targeted at families or groups who need more space.
Premium three-bedroom residences can be expensive, especially in central Shanghai or high-end residential developments.
However, they can offer better value for families compared with booking multiple hotel rooms for an extended stay.
How Much Does a Serviced Apartment Cost in Different Shanghai Areas?
Shanghai is a huge city, and rental prices can vary considerably from one neighborhood to another.
Jing’an
Jing’an is one of Shanghai’s most popular central districts for international residents.
It offers convenient access to:
- Major business districts
- Metro lines
- Restaurants and cafés
- Shopping malls
- International services
- Entertainment
Because of its central location and strong demand, serviced apartments in Jing’an can command premium rental prices.
Xuhui
Xuhui is another popular choice, particularly around the former French Concession.
The area is known for its tree-lined streets, restaurants, cafés, historic architecture, international schools, and lifestyle-oriented neighborhoods.
For people who want a more residential atmosphere while remaining close to central Shanghai, Xuhui can be an attractive option.
For example, the Wukang Building Apartment in Xuhui is one property option for renters interested in this part of Shanghai.
Huangpu
Huangpu places residents close to some of Shanghai’s most famous attractions and central neighborhoods.
Depending on the exact location, residents may have convenient access to:
- People’s Square
- Nanjing Road
- The Bund
- Xintiandi
- Metro connections
- Restaurants and entertainment
Serviced apartments in central Huangpu can therefore command relatively high rents.
Pudong and Lujiazui
Pudong is particularly popular with professionals working in finance, technology, and multinational companies.
Lujiazui is one of Shanghai’s major financial centers and is home to some of the city’s most recognizable skyscrapers.
For someone working in Pudong, living nearby can reduce commuting time and make daily life more convenient.
Hongqiao and Changning
Hongqiao and Changning can be attractive for families and international residents who prioritize transportation, schools, residential communities, and access to western Shanghai.
Hongqiao is also an important transportation hub.
Depending on the exact property, serviced apartments in this area may offer more space for the price than some highly central neighborhoods.
Hongkou and North Bund
Hongkou and the North Bund area can be interesting for renters looking for modern residential options and convenient access to central Shanghai.
For example, Somerset Hongkou Serviced Apartment is an option to consider when comparing professionally managed accommodation in this part of the city.
What Is Usually Included in a Serviced Apartment?
One reason serviced apartments can appear more expensive than ordinary apartments is that the monthly rent may include services and facilities that you would otherwise need to arrange separately.
Depending on the property, your rental package may include:
- Furniture
- Kitchen appliances
- Housekeeping
- Security
- Reception services
- Maintenance
- Gym
- Swimming pool
- Internet
- Utilities
- Parking
- Shared facilities
However, not every serviced apartment includes the same services.
Always ask the property manager or agent exactly what is included before comparing prices.
Are Utilities Included in Serviced Apartment Rent?
This is an important question when calculating your real monthly housing cost.
Some serviced apartments include certain utilities or services in the rental package, while others charge separately.
Possible additional expenses include:
- Electricity
- Water
- Gas
- Internet
- Parking
- Cleaning
- Laundry
- Additional housekeeping
- Management fees
A serviced apartment with a higher monthly rent may actually offer better overall value if more services are included.
For this reason, comparing only the advertised monthly rent can sometimes be misleading.
Serviced Apartment vs Regular Apartment: Which Costs More?
A serviced apartment will often have a higher monthly rental price than a comparable unfurnished or standard residential apartment.
But the comparison isn’t completely straightforward.
| Cost or Feature | Serviced Apartment | Regular Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture | Usually included | May be furnished or unfurnished |
| Kitchen | Usually included | Usually included |
| Housekeeping | Often available | Usually not included |
| Reception | Often available | Usually not |
| Gym/facilities | Often available | Depends on building |
| Maintenance | Usually managed by operator | Tenant/landlord arrangement |
| Lease flexibility | Often more flexible | Can require longer commitment |
| Initial setup | Easier | More work required |
| Monthly rent | Usually higher | Usually lower |
If you only compare monthly rent, a regular apartment may look cheaper.
But if you are moving to Shanghai from overseas, the convenience of a serviced apartment can sometimes justify the additional cost.
If you are also considering a conventional rental, our broader Shanghai apartment rental guides can help you understand the differences between standard apartments and serviced accommodation.
Are Serviced Apartments in Shanghai Worth the Extra Cost?
Whether a serviced apartment is worth the additional cost depends on your circumstances.
For example, serviced apartments can be particularly convenient for people who:
- Are new to Shanghai
- Are relocating from another country
- Have a temporary work assignment
- Need accommodation immediately
- Don’t want to buy furniture
- Prefer professional property management
- Want housekeeping services
- Don’t want to deal with maintenance themselves
For someone planning to stay in Shanghai for several years and looking to minimize housing expenses, a standard long-term apartment may make more financial sense.
The important thing is to compare total living costs and convenience, rather than rent alone.
Does a Longer Lease Make a Serviced Apartment Cheaper?
In many cases, longer rental periods can provide better monthly rates, although this depends on the property and operator.
You may encounter different pricing for:
- Daily stays
- Weekly stays
- Monthly stays
- Three-month leases
- Six-month leases
- One-year leases
Short-term accommodation generally costs more per month because of the additional flexibility and services.
If you already know that you will stay in Shanghai for six months or a year, ask whether the property offers a long-term rate.
For more practical advice about lease terms, apartment inspections, and the rental process, read our guide on How to Find a Serviced Apartment in Shanghai: A Complete Guide.
What About Short-Term Serviced Apartments in Shanghai?
Short-term serviced apartments can be useful when you don’t want to commit to a traditional lease.
They can be particularly useful for:
- Business trips
- Temporary assignments
- Relocation periods
- Home renovations
- Trial stays before signing a long-term lease
- New arrivals to Shanghai
The main advantage is flexibility.
The disadvantage is that the effective monthly cost may be higher than signing a longer lease.
How Much Should You Budget for a Serviced Apartment?
Before starting your apartment search, determine your maximum monthly housing budget.
For example, you might divide your options into three broad categories:
Budget-conscious:
Look for smaller apartments, less central locations, or buildings with fewer premium facilities.
Mid-range:
Consider established neighborhoods with good transportation, modern furnishings, and professional services.
Premium:
Look at luxury serviced residences in central locations with larger apartments and extensive facilities.
Your budget should also account for expenses beyond rent.
Consider:
- Utilities
- Internet
- Transportation
- Parking
- Deposits
- Cleaning
- Meals
- Insurance
- Other household expenses
This gives you a more realistic estimate of your monthly cost of living in Shanghai.
How to Get Better Value When Renting a Serviced Apartment
If you want to keep costs under control, consider these strategies.
Choose Location Carefully
You don’t necessarily need to live in the most expensive central neighborhood.
An apartment slightly farther from your workplace may offer significantly more space for the same budget.
However, check the Metro connection and commuting time before deciding.
Compare Total Cost
Don’t compare apartments based only on advertised rent.
Check what is included and calculate the approximate total monthly cost.
Consider a Longer Lease
If you know you will stay for an extended period, ask whether the landlord or operator offers a better rate for a longer lease.
Choose the Right Size
Don’t pay for three bedrooms if you only need one.
On the other hand, if you work from home or have children, paying slightly more for an additional bedroom may provide substantially better quality of life.
Compare Facilities
A building with a gym, pool, housekeeping, reception, and maintenance services may cost more but can reduce the need to arrange these services separately.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
Before signing a lease, ask:
- What is the monthly rental price?
- What utilities are included?
- Is Wi-Fi included?
- How often is housekeeping provided?
- Are gym and swimming pool access included?
- Is there a security deposit?
- Are there additional management fees?
- Is parking available?
- What is the minimum lease period?
- Is the rental price negotiable?
- What happens if I terminate the lease early?
- Are maintenance services included?
Getting clear answers to these questions can help you avoid unexpected costs.
How to Find the Right Serviced Apartment in Shanghai
Price is important, but it should not be the only factor you consider.
Start by deciding:
- Your monthly budget
- Preferred district
- Number of bedrooms
- Required floor area
- Lease length
- Furnishing requirements
- Transportation needs
- Building facilities
- Lifestyle preferences
Once you have these criteria, you can narrow down the available properties much more quickly.
For a step-by-step approach, read How to Find a Serviced Apartment in Shanghai: A Complete Guide before contacting properties or arranging viewings.
You can then explore serviced apartments in Shanghai by location, apartment type, and budget to compare suitable options.
Explore Serviced Apartments in Shanghai
Once you understand your budget, the next step is to compare actual properties.
For example:
- Wukang Building Apartment, Xuhui — suitable for renters interested in the Xuhui/French Concession area.
- Somerset Hongkou Serviced Apartment, North Bund — an option for renters looking in Hongkou and North Bund.
- Serviced Apartments Near Fudan / Yew Chung, Hongqiao — useful for people considering accommodation around Hongqiao and nearby schools.
- Serviced Apartment Near Fudan and Tongji University, North Bund — an option for renters who need convenient access to these university areas.
Comparing real properties alongside your budget can give you a better understanding of what your monthly rental budget can provide in different parts of Shanghai.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a serviced apartment in Shanghai cost?
There is no single answer. A serviced apartment can cost anywhere from several thousand RMB per month for a smaller unit to tens of thousands of RMB for a large luxury residence in a prime location.
The biggest factors are location, apartment size, building quality, lease length, services, and included facilities.
For newcomers, expats, business professionals, and families relocating to Shanghai, serviced apartments can provide a convenient way to settle into the city without immediately dealing with all the challenges of furnishing and managing a traditional rental.
The best approach is to compare the total monthly cost, location, services, apartment size, and lease terms rather than focusing only on the advertised rent.
If you are currently searching for a serviced apartment, start by defining your budget and preferred Shanghai neighborhood. Then compare properties that match your actual lifestyle and length of stay.
