Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
A recent social media post by prominent influencer Lu Kewen sparked heated debates online, as he claimed that a monthly post-tax income of ¥6,000 in Chengdu offers a quality of life comparable to, or even better than, €2,000 in France. The statement, posted on December 20, drew widespread attention and divided opinions among netizens, especially those with firsthand international living experience.
Lu’s assertion stems from his belief that living costs in China’s southwestern city of Chengdu are significantly lower compared to cities in Europe. He argued that with ¥6,000, one could enjoy a quality of life on par with French residents earning €2,000 post-tax. “This income comparison allows us to look at the world with confidence, treating others as equals,” Lu proclaimed.
According to Lu, €2,000 represents the average income for most French citizens. By comparison, he believes that ¥6,000 in Chengdu positions Chinese residents on similar footing, citing the city's slower pace of life, vibrant food culture, and relatively affordable living expenses.
Unsurprisingly, Lu’s post ignited a wave of debate. He later remarked that those who have lived abroad generally agreed with his perspective, while those without international experience tended to disagree.
Some commenters supported Lu’s argument, pointing to anecdotal evidence. For example, one netizen shared their student’s observation while studying in the UK: the cost of basic goods like pens and electrical outlets can be nearly 1:1 between the Chinese yuan and the British pound. Another netizen described their struggles living on £3,000 per month in the UK, citing high costs for housing, transportation, and food, which left them feeling financially strained. Returning to China, they said, improved their quality of life significantly.
However, skeptics were quick to challenge Lu’s claim, accusing him of oversimplifying complex economic and cultural differences between China and France. One critical response noted, “It’s misleading to equate incomes without considering social safety nets, healthcare, and education systems. In France, much of what’s expensive in China is covered by public funds.”
Critics argue that while ¥6,000 may provide a decent standard of living in Chengdu, it doesn’t necessarily equate to the financial security and benefits tied to €2,000 in France. For instance:
Housing Costs: In Chengdu, renting a modest apartment might cost around ¥2,000 per month, but this often doesn’t account for long-term ownership. Meanwhile, European renters benefit from stronger tenant protections and alternative housing subsidies.
Healthcare and Education: French residents with €2,000 have access to affordable or free healthcare and education. In China, these costs often come directly out of pocket, adding a financial burden to families.
Savings and Leisure: Many French workers enjoy additional benefits like paid vacations and pensions. For the average Chinese worker earning ¥6,000, these perks are far less common.
38-year-old woman’s marriage requirements stir debate online
Chinese woman chooses African partner, left broke after cancer
Chinese man shares photos with German girlfriend, gets bullied
Foreign woman fined for dating on tourist visa in China
Chinese man marries African girl 12 years his junior for ¥9,000
My friend chose to end her life in Zurich on October 24, 2024
Long press or scan the QR CODE below to follow us!
