The cost of living in Chengdu is generally considered affordable, especially when compared to major Chinese hubs like Shanghai or Beijing, with a single person typically spending around $905 to $1,262 per month including rent. For those living a local lifestyle, monthly expenses excluding housing can range from 1,500 to 3,000 CNY ($210–$420), while a more Western or "expat" lifestyle often requires between 6,000 and 10,000 CNY ($840–$1,400) per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages approximately $426 in the city center and $237 in suburban areas, with utilities and high-speed internet adding roughly 400 to 600 CNY monthly. Dining is a major highlight and cost-saver; a bowl of local noodles costs about 10 to 20 CNY, and a typical meal at an inexpensive restaurant is around 30 CNY, though mid-range Western meals or international dining can reach 150 to 300 CNY for two people. Transportation is exceptionally cheap, with metro and bus rides costing between 2 and 5 CNY and monthly passes averaging $24, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life on a relatively modest budget.