Chengdu is generally considered an affordable and moderately priced city, offering significantly lower costs than major Chinese hubs like Shanghai, Beijing, or Hong Kong. For travelers, daily budgets can range from approximately $45 for budget seekers to $255 for high-end experiences, with casual local meals priced as low as 14 to 50 CNY and public transit fares starting at just 1 to 2 CNY. For those living in the city, monthly expenses fluctuate based on lifestyle; while a local might spend 1,500 to 2,000 RMB excluding rent, an expat or someone preferring a western lifestyle might spend upwards of 6,000 RMB. While accommodation in popular tourist areas and imported goods can be more expensive, the overall low cost of dining, transportation, and utilities makes Chengdu a high-value destination for both visitors and residents.