Discover Xi'an:
teaching English in Xi'an

Why Xi'an

Highlights and interesting facts

Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in the country and was the capital for several dynasties, including the Zhou, Qin, Han, and Tang. This history is clear in the physical layout, which is built around the massive Ming dynasty wall that surrounds the historic centre. Walking or cycling along the top of this wall is a daily activity for residents, and it offers clear views of the old neighbourhoods. The Terracotta Army, built for the tomb of the first emperor of China, is located in the nearby Lintong District.

Beyond the imperial monuments, the local culture is known for its food, which combines traditional Chinese flavours with influences from the Silk Road. The Muslim Quarter, located near the Drum Tower, is a network of narrow streets filled with stalls that sell hand-pulled noodles, mutton stew, and grilled skewers. These local specialties are cheap and easy to find across the city. The central location in the country also makes it a major transport hub, so residents can travel to other provinces during holidays.

The teaching scene

One of the region's fastest-growing markets

The teaching market is diverse, with opportunities in universities, public schools, private language centres, and international institutions. For early-career teachers, a position in a public school or language centre is the most common path. To legally teach here, you must obtain a work permit from the local education bureau, which requires you to follow the guidelines in the Z-visa guide to get all documents authenticated. Public schools offer stable schedules, national holidays, and a good environment for new teachers.

For those who want higher compensation, the international and bilingual schools in the southern districts are a primary target. These positions usually require formal home-country qualifications, so you should check the degree requirements before you apply. When you finalize a contract, you will need to prepare your personal files, and the apostille guide explains how to get your credentials verified. Universities in the city, such as Xi'an Jiaotong University and Shaanxi Normal University, also recruit foreign lecturers for oral English courses. These positions offer relaxed schedules and long vacations, although the base pay is lower than in private schools.

Cost of living

A tier 2 city at a fraction of the rent

Living costs are low, especially when compared to coastal cities. Housing is affordable, and a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs a fraction of the rent in Shanghai or Beijing. Many teachers choose to live inside the old city wall for the historic character and easy walkability, while others prefer the southern High-Tech Zone where most modern apartment complexes stand. Utilities, internet, and mobile phone services are cheap, so they represent only a minor part of a monthly budget.

Daily expenses like food and transportation are also low. You can eat a filling meal of local noodles or dumplings at a neighbourhood restaurant for a low price, which makes it easy to eat out regularly. Western cafes, restaurants, and imported goods are concentrated in the shopping districts around the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and the High-Tech Zone. While these cost more than local options, they remain inexpensive. Because rent and food require so little of your income, a standard teaching salary allows you to save money while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.

Climate through the year

July summers and seasonal weather

The local climate is continental, with four distinct seasons that reflect the inland geography of the Guanzhong Basin. Summers are hot and dry, and temperatures peak in July, when the basin traps heat. Winters are cold and dry, and temperatures in January drop near freezing. Although snowfall is relatively light, the air feels cold, and because central heating is not standard in the southern districts, apartments rely on individual air conditioning units for warmth.

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times of the year, with mild temperatures and clear skies. The transition periods are short, with cherry blossoms in the spring and golden leaves in the autumn. The region experiences dust storms in late spring due to winds from the Gobi Desert, which can temporarily reduce air quality. Arriving in late August or early September is ideal, as it allows you to settle into your new home during the comfortable autumn months.

Getting around

A cheap flat outside the centre no longer means a painful commute

Navigating the city is simple because of a modern subway system that connects the major districts. The metro lines cross the city from north to south and east to west, passing under the historic city walls and linking the railway stations to the southern zones. Fares are cheap and based on distance, and you can pay with mobile applications on your phone. For short journeys, public shared bicycles are parked on almost every corner, which provides a convenient way to travel.

Buses cover the areas not reached by the subway, offering cheap routes across the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful and inexpensive, especially for late-night travel when public transport is closed. The city is a major railway hub, and high-speed trains connect you to Chengdu in under four hours and to Beijing in about five hours. Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, located northwest of the city, offers flights to domestic and international destinations, which makes it easy to plan trips during holidays.