Nanjing has a fairly wide range of housing options for expatriates, typically without the kinds of rental prices that prevail in Beijing and Shanghai.

As rentals for expatriate housing can be similar to what would be paid in home markets, there is sometimes an expectation that the quality will be of a similar standard; however, this is not always the case. Efficient and effective property management and after–sales service and maintenance are often lacking.

There are several areas of Nanjing where foreigners prefer to live. Some examples are:

Downtown Area: Referred to as Xinjiekou Area, this is Nanjing’s busiest business, shopping and entertainment area. You will not find villas, but will be able to find apartments especially convenient for singles and families with no children. Some popular compounds are Vanke Apartment, Golden Eagle International Garden and Landsea Sunny Home.

Xianlin Area: Eastern suburb of Nanjing. It is very close to the Xingang Development zone where many foreign companies have set up their factories. Apartments and villas have been built in the area to cater for the foreign demand. Some popular compounds are Oriental Heaven Manor, Evian Valley and Royal Family Villa. Near Nanjing International School.

Jiangning Area: southern suburb of Nanjing .Since many foreign companies have set up their factories in the Jiangning Development zone, this area is gradually becoming an area where foreigners want to live. Both apartments and villas are available. Some popular compounds are Verdurous Bamboo Garden, Talego, Yulan Villa, Master land Villa, and Green Lake Villa. The British School is in this area.