The Expat’s Essential Guide to Utilities in Shanghai
In Shanghai, managing utilities is a digital-first experience. Unlike many Western countries where you might receive a paper bill in the mail once a month, Shanghai’s utility landscape is largely powered by mobile apps and tiered pricing. Whether you are living in a managed "FlexPals" unit or a traditional market rental, understanding how to monitor and pay for your water, electricity, and gas is key to a hassle-free stay.
🏡 Simplified Living: FlexPals vs. Market Listings
At Here, we provide two distinct ways to manage your utilities, depending on your property type:
FlexPals Units: To make your stay as smooth as possible, utilities are all-inclusive. We cap usage at 200 CNY per month per tenant, which comfortably covers standard consumption.
Market Listings: For traditional apartments, you are responsible for your own consumption. We estimate a budget of 100 to 200 CNY per month per person. Payments are made digitally through Alipay or WeChat Pay.
⚡ 1. Electricity (State Grid)
Shanghai uses a tiered pricing system—the more you use, the higher the unit price becomes.
Billing Cycles: Most apartments are billed monthly. You will often find a small blue slip of paper in your mailbox or taped to your door; this is your notice to pay.
Pre-paid vs. Post-paid: Many modern apartments use smart meters where you "top up" credit via Alipay. If the power suddenly goes out, it’s usually because your balance hit zero.
Peak/Off-Peak: Electricity is cheaper between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Running your washing machine or dishwasher at night is a rational way to save.
💧 2. Water (Shanghai Water)
The city’s water supply is reliable and affordable.
Usage: Bills are typically issued every two months.
Safety: While the water is safe for washing, we do not recommend drinking tap water directly. Most expats use a delivery service for 19L water jugs or install a high-quality undersink filtration system.
🔥 3. Gas (Shanghai Gas)
Natural gas is primarily used for cooking and your shower’s water heater.
Payment: Similar to water, this is usually a bi-monthly bill.
Maintenance: If you have an indoor gas water heater, ensure the room is well-ventilated. In winter, if your hot water stops, check if your gas card needs a top-up.
🛜 4. High-Speed Internet
Connectivity is the backbone of life in China.
Providers: China Telecom is generally considered the most stable for international browsing (especially when using a VPN), while China Unicom and China Mobile offer competitive mobile-bundled packages.
Installation: We can assist you in booking a technician. Most installations are completed within 48 hours.
🗑️ 5. Waste Management: The Four Categories
Shanghai is a global leader in waste sorting. Since 2019, residents are legally required to separate trash:
Dry Refuse (干垃圾): Residual waste.
Wet Refuse (湿垃圾): Household food waste (must be disposed of without the bag).
Recyclables (可回收物): Paper, plastic, glass, and metal.
Hazardous Waste (有害垃圾): Batteries, medicines, and chemicals.
Timing: Most compounds have specific "drop-off" hours (e.g., 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
📱 Mastering Digital Payments
The most efficient way to manage utilities is through the "City Services" function in Alipay (Zhifubao) or WeChat Pay.
Step 1: Open Alipay and tap "Utility."
Step 2: Select the service (Electricity, Water, or Gas).
Step 3: Scan the barcode on your bill or enter your 10-digit customer ID.
Step 4: Set up "Autopay" to ensure you never face a service disruption.
Need Help Setting Up?
Transitioning to a new country's utility system can be confusing. Our team at Here | Housing & Coliving assists all our tenants with their first round of payments and helps set up your high-speed internet.
📧 Questions about your bills? hello@hereici.com
🌐 Learn more about FlexPals: www.hereici.com
