Shanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. The population of Shanghai is 34 Million (2016 est.), while the inflation rate is 1.8% (2016 est.).
The cost of living for expatriates / professional migrants in Shanghai as at 1 July 2016 is very high in comparison to other places in the world. In Shanghai, the cost of each basket, based on local prices, compared to the international average, is categorized follows (Exact cost of living percentages only available in personalised reports):
1) Alcohol (where available) & Tobacco: High
2) Clothing: Very High
3) Communication: Low
4) Education: Very High
5) Furniture & Appliances: High
6) Groceries: Very High
7) Healthcare: Very High
8) Household Accommodation: Very High
9) Miscellaneous: Very High
10) Personal Care: Very High
11) Recreation & Culture: High
12) Restaurants Meals Out and Hotels: High
13) Transport: Average
http://www.xpatulator.com/cost-of-living-review/China-Shanghai_52.cfm