I Left The U.S. For Shenzhen, China – Here's How Much It Costs
Channel: CNBC Make It
Duration: 11:04
The Big Picture
Bradley Cray's journey from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to Shenzhen, China, showcases a life dramatically transformed by the vibrant and cost-effective features of one of China's most modern cities. The video highlights the affordability and convenience of living in Shenzhen, from remarkably low transportation and healthcare costs to futuristic amenities like biometric payment systems and 15-minute delivery services. Despite some challenges like hectic scooter traffic and cultural differences, Bradley finds a greater peace of mind in the lower costs and increased safety for his family, leading him to view the move as the best decision of his life.
Chapter Breakdown
- In Act I: Setup, Bradley Cray sets the scene by transporting us from his small-town America roots to the sprawling, futuristic city of Shenzhen, China, where skyscrapers and underground shopping malls form the backdrop of his new life.
- Act II: Development/Twist takes us deeper into the benefits of life in Shenzhen. Bradley reveals jaw-dropping living costs, marvels at the convenience of biometrics and delivery robots, and shares how his family's life is enhanced by multicultural and multilingual surroundings.
- In Act III: Resolution/Conclusion, Bradley reflects on his transformation. From school lunches to healthcare, he sums up why moving to Shenzhen was the best choice, despite a few perilous scooter encounters and the perpetual reminder of his foreign status with the words 'Lǎowài' and 'wài guó rén'.
Highlights
- ✨ Bradley casually paying for a coconut water with his hand, because who needs wallets or phones in the future?
- 🚍 Underground malls connected to subway stations turn ordinary commutes into subterranean shopping adventures.
- 🤖 Having a delivery robot bring items directly to his door, because personal space is so passé!
- 🚲 Scooter chaos levels in Shenzhen are off the charts; apparently, these scooters have never heard of traffic laws.
- 🍕 A whole grocery cart for $100? Cue the American jaws dropping in awe and despair.
Quote of the Moment
"It's like if Silicon Valley and New York City had a baby in China."
Controversial Takes
- Asserting that the education and school lunches in Shenzhen far surpass what America offers might ruffle some patriotic feathers.
- The claim that Shenzhen's safety surpasses America's because of the absence of school shootings and abductions could spark heated discussions.
Is It Clickbait?
Clickbait verdict: Not Clickbait — The costs include $1,000/month for a three-bedroom apartment, less than $50/month for transportation, $90/month for healthcare (covering his children), and around $100/month for electricity, with incredibly affordable food and other living expenses.
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