Shenzhen too pricey? Cost-conscious Hongkongers dig deeper into mainland China

AI Summary

Hong Kong residents are increasingly comparing prices across mainland Chinese cities as Shenzhen becomes less affordable. One retiree said a meal for four there now costs 500–600 yuan, while comparable meals remain cheaper in Guangzhou and Zhongshan.

Seventy-something Hong Kong retiree Leung Ching says a meal for four in Shenzhen, the megacity in mainland China roughly an hour’s train ride away, that cost just over 300 yuan (US$45) a few years ago now runs to 500 to 600 yuan. It would cost around HK$1,000 (US$127.50) in Hong Kong, but only 300 yuan in Guangzhou and just 200 yuan in Zhongshan, two cities within two hours of Hong Kong. “Shenzhen is becoming less and less affordable,” said Leung, a retired vendor. Last year, consumer prices in...