$1000 rent, $100 groceries: US man who moved to China calls life his 'version of the American Dream'

A 36-year-old American man living in the Shenzhen province of China with his wife and two kids, has revealed how affordable and comfortable it is to live in the country. Braden Cray, who resides there with his family of four claimed he had "never seen something like this before."

He shared that the cost of living, the affordable healthcare, the incredible public transportation, the healthy foods, the conveniences, and the quality of education were the numerous benefits he saw while living in China.

Monthly expenditures in China

According to Cray, the cost of living is one of the biggest advantages. The monthly expenditures for the family in the country are affordable and surprisingly low. The transportation too is remarkably affordable, costs amounting to $50 per month with groceries costing $100. Moreover, Cray paid at the store with a scan of his hand, without needing a wallet or phone. One can buy a whole chicken for $5, a whole crate of eggs for $2.50, and a pack of nuts for $2.

Professionally, Cray has also found stability. Earlier with his teaching job, Cray earned $4,000 per month. However, he later switched to a marketing manager role where he now earns $3500 monthly and along with his earnings from Instagram and TikTok, where he makes $1,000, he earns a total of $4,500 per month.

Their housing situation is equally notable. The family resides in a three-bedroom apartment in the province whose door opens with an easy biometric scan rather than keys. It costs him about $1000 a month with the wi-fi adding $29 and electricity $100.

Healthcare and education costs further add to the appeal. For healthcare, he pays $90 a month for his entire family including two kids. For their school fees, they pay $300 per semester including meals.


The cost of living in the US is comparatively high. For a single person, it is approximately $1,777-$1,200 per month. For a family of four, it can amount to $4,300. However, the cost may be higher in major cities like New York or San Francisco and lower in small cities.

For him, the difference is clear. "If all the stars align perfectly, I'll be here in Shenzhen forever," said Cray.