Chengdu has done it again.
At a recent national forum, the city once again ranked No. 1 among China’s happiest cities, topping the list of provincial capitals and major urban centres. While many people outside China associate Chengdu with giant pandas, fiery hot pot, and long mahjong games, this recognition reflects something far more important: the quality of everyday life for the people who live and work here.
For teachers and school leaders considering a move to China, that distinction is worth serious attention.
Why Chengdu Keeps Appearing at the Top
The “happiest cities” list isn’t based on tourist photos or marketing slogans. Cities are evaluated on how they support people’s daily lives:
- the quality of local education and employment,
- income levels and career opportunities,
- social welfare and healthcare,
- urban development, public services and green spaces,
- and overall living conditions and governance.
Chengdu consistently scores well across these areas. It combines the advantages of a large, modern city with a pace of life that’s more relaxed than Beijing, Shanghai or Shenzhen. You get a functioning metro, well-developed districts, a strong restaurant and café scene, and a growing international community, without the feeling that the city is constantly running at 200 km/h.
The result is simple: people like living here, and they tend to stay.
Chengdu’s Growing Role as an Education Hub
Chengdu’s “happiest city” label is closely linked to the strength of its education ecosystem.
Over the past decade, the city has developed into a key education hub in western China. There is a steady pipeline of new international and bilingual schools, as well as established campuses expanding their program offerings. Many of these schools now offer international pathways such as AP, A-Level and IB, alongside Chinese curricula.
That growth creates consistent demand for international talent. Schools in Chengdu are actively hiring:
- Kindergarten teachers
- English and homeroom teachers
- Subject specialists (Humanities/Social Studies, Maths, Sciences, ICT, Arts, PE, etc.)
- Coordinators, middle leaders and senior leadership roles as schools scale up
Typical packages include competitive salaries, housing or housing allowance, full visa and onboarding support, and opportunities for professional development on modern, well-resourced campuses.
If you’re already teaching in China and looking for a city with a better balance, or if you’re coming from overseas and want a first posting that isn’t overwhelming, Chengdu is a very realistic option.
What Living and Working in Chengdu Really Looks Like
Lifestyle
Cost of living
Work environment
Why You Should Have Chengdu on Your Shortlist
- A large, modern city that is actually pleasant to live in
- A growing cluster of international and bilingual schools
- Real demand for qualified teachers and leaders
- A lifestyle that allows you to work hard and still have a life outside school
