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Is Teaching English in China Still Worth It? The Truth Behind the Dream

2026-02-22
Is Teaching English in China Still Worth It? The Truth Behind the Dream Okay, so let's dig into the earning side of things here – it’s definitely shifted since I was working down south years ago. Back then, landing even a basic contract meant pocketing ¥15k solid per month plus some lovely extras; free accommodation and generous bonuses were practically guaranteed handouts. It felt like you could actually build something towards your future while dreaming about that annual pilgrimage back to your family's side.

These days? Things are much tighter on the take-home pay front. The standard rate hovers around ¥12,000–¥14,000 a month – no more guaranteed freebies unless you're incredibly fortunate or possess an unnervingly pleasant disposition that catches management’s fancy! But hold your horses: even with this lower income bracket, the twist is finding living costs in most secondary and tertiary city areas are still pretty manageable. You can afford three proper meals daily stuffed full of flavourful spicy Sichuan fare – maybe a hot pot here or there? And don't forget treating yourself to a brand-spanking-new pair of sneakers!

With that kind of earning power, your monthly budget stretches surprisingly far in these places. Plus, you'll likely still have change rattling around after planning for and enjoying a fun weekend jaunt out towards scenic spots like Guilin – it really does feel like you're getting paid dragon coins down there, except they are real metal dragons with teeth that actually chomp through prices!

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