Why I Live in China and REFUSE to Move Back to America

I, an American, live in China and LOVE it here. Shocking to you? Can’t wrap your mind around it? Curious to know more? Watch this and I’ll tell you all my secrets on why I’m continuing to stay~

Hey guys, it’s Bureau in China, and I refuse to move back to the States. You might be wondering why, and you’re not the first to ask! A lot of people have been curious, asking, “Why are you in China? What’s so great about living there?” Today, I’m here to clear the air and share the reasons why I’m staying in China and not heading back to the U.S.

1. Safety: As a mom, this is the most important factor for me. I’d do anything to protect my kids and ensure their safety. My hometown in the U.S. is really dangerous, with a high murder rate and thieves everywhere. I don’t even feel safe walking outside at night. But in China, safety is on another level. There are cameras everywhere, and petty theft is almost non-existent because most transactions happen on mobile phones. I’ve never felt safer, even walking down the street at 3 AM. I wouldn’t trade that peace of mind for anything.

2. Guns: This is a bit controversial, but I feel there are too many people in the States with guns, and it’s terrifying. School shootings, movie theater shootings—it’s a big problem. In China, you simply can’t get guns. Security is tight with metal detectors everywhere, making it nearly impossible for anyone to cause harm with a weapon. It’s a relief knowing that my kids are in an environment where gun violence isn’t a concern.

3. Drugs: In America, it’s far too easy to access drugs, and it’s heartbreaking. I’ve lost friends to overdoses, and every year, thousands die from it. In China, the laws are incredibly strict when it comes to drugs, largely due to their history with the Opium Wars. It’s reassuring as a parent to know my children are growing up in a place where drug abuse isn’t part of daily life.

4. Cost of Living: China is extremely affordable. Food, transportation, healthcare—you name it, it’s all cheaper here. I’m able to save so much more than I ever could in the States. If you want to see how cheap things are, check out my other video where I break down my daily expenses.

5. Opportunity: Finding work in China is so much easier than back home. After losing my job in 2022, I found a new one in just two days! There are countless opportunities here for anyone with a college degree. Whether it’s teaching, acting, or editing, there’s always something around the corner.

6. Convenience: Everything is right at your doorstep. Whether it’s a store, restaurant, or subway station, I can walk in any direction and find what I need within 5 minutes. In my hometown, I’d have to drive 10-15 minutes to reach anything. And on top of that, everything is affordable, from groceries to public transportation.

7. Travel: One of the main reasons I moved to China is the ease of travel. Living in China puts all of Asia within reach. Flights to Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and even domestic travel are incredibly affordable. I’ve seen things that look straight out of a fantasy, and now that I have kids, I’m excited to explore even more places with them.

That’s it for today, guys! If you want to hear more, like how I met my husband (another travel lover), leave a comment! Thanks for watching—don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe. See you next time!

China’s quality of life, compared to the United States, is seen as better for some individuals due to several factors, although this perception can vary depending on personal circumstances. Here are key reasons why some people feel China offers a better quality of life than the U.S.:

1. Safety

One of the most significant reasons is the sense of safety. Many people in China, especially expatriates, report feeling safer there compared to the U.S. Violent crime rates, particularly those involving firearms, are far lower in China due to the country’s strict gun control laws. This contributes to a feeling of security in both urban and rural areas, even at night. Additionally, the widespread use of surveillance cameras deters petty crime, making people feel more secure.

2. Cost of Living

In general, the cost of living in China is considerably lower than in the U.S., especially outside major cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Expenses like rent, transportation, healthcare, and daily necessities are much more affordable in China. Many expats can enjoy a high standard of living on a moderate salary. For instance, dining out, public transportation, and even education can be relatively inexpensive compared to American standards.

3. Public Transportation

China has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including subways, buses, and high-speed trains, which are reliable and affordable. In the U.S., public transportation is often less comprehensive and more expensive. The ability to travel between major cities quickly and cheaply via high-speed trains (such as between Beijing and Shanghai) adds to the convenience and enhances the overall quality of life for residents.

4. Healthcare

Healthcare in China is another key area where people feel they benefit. Medical treatment is generally much more affordable than in the U.S., where healthcare can be extremely expensive without insurance. In China, even though public healthcare facilities may not match the luxurious standards of private hospitals, they are accessible and reasonably priced. Expats often purchase private healthcare plans that provide access to high-quality medical services at a fraction of the cost in the U.S.

5. Job Opportunities for Expats

China offers plenty of job opportunities for foreigners, particularly in fields like education, technology, and media. Many expatriates find it easier to secure well-paying jobs with lower barriers to entry, such as teaching English or working in tech, compared to the competitive job market in the U.S. Furthermore, China’s rapid economic growth means there is often demand for foreign talent, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking new opportunities.

6. Cultural Experience and Travel

China is a vast and diverse country with rich cultural heritage and easy access to travel within Asia. Living in China allows residents to explore the country’s historical sites, natural landscapes, and various regional cultures, often at a much lower cost than traveling in the U.S. Additionally, China’s proximity to other Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam makes international travel affordable and convenient.

7. Convenience of Daily Life

Living in Chinese cities is extremely convenient due to technological advancements, particularly in the digital economy. China is at the forefront of cashless payments, with platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay used for everything from buying groceries to paying for utilities. Most daily tasks can be managed through mobile apps, from ordering food to scheduling doctor’s appointments, contributing to a highly efficient lifestyle.

8. Strong Community and Networking for Expats

China has a strong expat community, especially in large cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. For foreigners, it is relatively easy to connect with other expats and locals, creating a supportive network. Many people find it easier to integrate into Chinese society due to the welcoming nature of the local population and the availability of expat-friendly services.

9. Education Opportunities

China provides diverse educational options, including high-quality international schools for expats and competitive public education for residents. For families, the accessibility of education, particularly at international institutions, is often more affordable than in the U.S. Many expatriates with children appreciate the emphasis on education and discipline in Chinese schools.

10. Economic Growth and Stability

China’s economy has grown rapidly over the past few decades, offering stability and opportunity for both locals and expats. This economic expansion has resulted in better infrastructure, more jobs, and modern amenities in most urban centers. The growing middle class and improving living standards contribute to a higher overall quality of life, especially for those working in fast-growing sectors like tech, manufacturing, and services.

Conclusion:

While the United States offers a high standard of living, healthcare quality, and opportunities, China presents a different set of advantages that many people find appealing. Lower living costs, enhanced safety, modern conveniences, and access to a booming job market make China an attractive option for those looking to experience a different lifestyle. The “best” quality of life depends largely on individual preferences and needs, but for many, China provides a sense of security, opportunity, and convenience that can be hard to find elsewhere.