Hangzhou reorganised its districts in 2021: Jianggan merged into Shangcheng, Xiacheng merged into Gongshu, and the new districts of Qiantang and Linping were created. Many people still use the old names, so listings can be confusing. Below we use the names locals use day to day.
Binjiang: for families and tech workers
On the south bank of the Qiantang River, Binjiang is a modern district of high-rise compounds, wide roads and parks along the river. It is home to many technology companies and to Hangzhou International School, which makes it a common choice for families. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥8,000–15,000 a month.
Qianjiang New City (Uptown): for CBD professionals
Hangzhou's central business district, now part of Shangcheng district, faces Binjiang across the river. Expect serviced apartments, high floors with river views, large malls and easy metro links. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥10,000–20,000.
West Lake (Xihu): for a green, relaxed life
The streets around West Lake and Zhejiang University are leafy and walkable, with older low-rise buildings, cafés and the lake on your doorstep. Apartments are often smaller and older, but the setting is hard to beat. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥8,000–16,000.
Downtown (Wulin and Hubin): for city living
Central Hangzhou around Wulin Square and the Hubin shopping streets suits people who want shops, restaurants and the metro within walking distance. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥7,000–14,000.
Gongshu: for value along the Grand Canal
North of the centre, Gongshu follows the Grand Canal, with quieter neighbourhoods, canal-side walks and good value for space. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥5,500–10,000.
Future Sci-Tech City and Xixi (Yuhang): near the tech campuses
West of the city, this fast-growing area around many technology campuses has new compounds with gyms, gardens and newer schools. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥6,000–12,000.
Xiaoshan: space near the airport
Close to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport and the high-speed rail station, Xiaoshan offers larger apartments and villas at lower rents, which suits families who want a garden. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥5,000–10,000.
Qiantang (Xiasha): university town and industrial parks
Home to the Xiasha university town and large industrial parks, Qiantang is popular with teachers and factory managers and has some of the lowest rents in the city. Typical two-bedroom rent: about ¥4,000–8,000.
At a glance
| Area | Best for | 2BR rent (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Binjiang | Families, tech workers | ¥8,000–15,000 |
| Qianjiang New City | CBD professionals | ¥10,000–20,000 |
| West Lake | Lifestyle, students, academics | ¥8,000–16,000 |
| Wulin / Hubin | Central city living | ¥7,000–14,000 |
| Gongshu | Value, quiet | ¥5,500–10,000 |
| Future Sci-Tech City | Tech campuses | ¥6,000–12,000 |
| Xiaoshan | Space, villas, airport | ¥5,000–10,000 |
| Qiantang | Budget, universities | ¥4,000–8,000 |
Rents are approximate for a furnished two-bedroom apartment and vary with the compound, floor, view and furnishing.
How to choose
- Commute first. Map your office or school and look within one or two metro lines of it.
- Then budget. The same money buys far more space in Gongshu or Xiaoshan than near the lake.
- Then lifestyle. Lake and parks, nightlife, or a quiet compound with a garden.
Once you have an area in mind, read our guide to renting an apartment in Hangzhou as a foreigner.
Neighborhood deep dives
- Living in Binjiang: families, tech companies and the riverside.
- Living in Qianjiang New City: the CBD, serviced apartments and river views.
- Renting near Alibaba and Future Sci-Tech City: new compounds near the tech campuses.
- Where to live near international schools: a guide for families.
To plan your budget, see the cost of living in Hangzhou.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area in Hangzhou for expat families?
Binjiang is popular with families because Hangzhou International School is there and the compounds are modern. The best choice still depends on which school your children attend.
Where is the cheapest area to rent in Hangzhou?
Qiantang (Xiasha), Gongshu and the outer parts of Yuhang and Xiaoshan usually offer the lowest rents for the space.
Which area is the most central?
Wulin and Hubin near West Lake, and Qianjiang New City, the CBD on the north bank of the Qiantang River.