Can You Save Money Teaching English in China?

Teaching English in China has become one of the most popular ways for English speakers to live abroad, explore a new culture, and earn a steady income. But one of the most common questions we hear at China Link ESL is: Can you save money teaching English in China?

The short answer is yes—and many teachers are surprised by just how much they’re able to save.

Why So Many Teachers Are Choosing China

China offers one of the best salary-to-cost-of-living ratios for English teachers worldwide. With competitive salaries, low daily expenses, and generous benefits, teachers can often live comfortably and still save a significant portion of their income.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced educator, China Link ESL can help you find the right position in public schools, kindergartens, international programs, and training centers across the country. Best of all, our services are 100% free to teachers.

So, can you save money teaching English in China while enjoying a fulfilling international experience? Absolutely—and we’ll show you how.

Why So Many Teachers Are Choosing China

China offers one of the best salary-to-cost-of-living ratios for English teachers worldwide. With competitive salaries, low daily expenses, and generous benefits, teachers can often live comfortably and still save a significant portion of their income.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced educator, China Link ESL can help you find the right position in public schools, kindergartens, international programs, and training centers across the country. Best of all, our services are 100% free to teachers.

Typical Salary Range for ESL Teachers in China

Salaries vary depending on experience, qualifications, and location, but here are some general figures for 2025:

• Training Centers: $2,500 – $4,200 USD/month
• Public Schools: $2,500 – $5,700 USD/month
• Subject Teaching Roles (e.g., Math, Science, Literature): $3,500 – $5,700+ USD/month

Teachers also receive benefits such as:

• Housing or housing allowance (typically $400–$600/month)
• Reimbursed or pre-paid flights
• Free Mandarin lessons
• Free medical insurance
• Up to 3 months of paid holidays

Daily Expenses Are Low

One of the biggest advantages of teaching in China is the low cost of living. Even in big cities like Beijing or Shanghai, local food, transportation, and entertainment are very affordable.

• Monthly utilities: $30–50 USD
• Transportation: $20–40 USD
• Meals out: $2–5 per meal

Most teachers find that they can live comfortably, enjoy leisure activities, and still save anywhere from $800 to $2,000 USD per month.

Extra Earning Potential

Many teachers take on private tutoring or join summer/winter camps to boost their income. For example:

• Private tutoring: $25–$100 USD per hour

These options are especially popular among experienced teachers or those based in larger cities.

Real Stories from China Link ESL Teachers

“Thanks guys! You made my dream come true! I’ve been teaching in Zhenjiang for four months now, and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. The people are amazing, and the students make this job an absolute dream.” — Emily W., UK

“I was nervous about moving abroad, but China Link ESL made the whole process easy. The support, the salary, the benefits—it’s all been incredible. I’m saving over $1,200/month even while traveling every weekend.” — Jason L., USA

Start Your Journey With Confidence

With over 15 years of experience, China Link ESL has placed thousands of teachers across China. We assist you with every step: from your initial application and interview to visa paperwork, housing, and support while you’re abroad.

Ready to begin your adventure and save while you teach?

👉 Apply now to start teaching English in China with China Link ESL.

Related Resources:

• How Much Do English Teachers Make in China in 2025?
• Teacher Testimonials
• What You Need to Teach in China

The process to teach abroad has never been simpler.

China Link ESL helps teachers organize all the necessary paperwork needed to obtain a legal work (Z) visa, travel and housing accommodations. We help facilitate paid training for all positions.

The company is very in touch with the community and the teachers feel like family. This is especially apparent on their Facebook page with numerous photos and videos of happy children and teachers.

Our Facebook Page has over (60) public reviews. One teacher left a recent review saying, “I always knew I wanted to work abroad but put it off for so long, and then I got a message about teaching English in China and I thought, what an amazing opportunity. I spoke with Brian first who was so informative and helpful with details about the job. Anita and Brian were so helpful, patient and considerate about me every step of the way. Now I’ve just moved to Xuzhou. Thank you to both of you for helping me achieve this, it’s a brilliant opportunity and I would recommend anyone to join and use China Link ESL.”

Follow Us on Instagram for updates!

China Link ESL has made a major push in 2018 with a new website and expansion of it’s social media presence to other popular platforms such as Instagram. Their service is always 100% free for job seekers.