Beijing is a city of immense scale and contrast, where ancient hutongs sit in the shadow of the futuristic CBD skyline. For digital nomads and expats, the capital offers deep cultural immersion, proximity to China's tech giants (Baidu, ByteDance), and a gritty, authentic energy distinct from Shanghai's polish. However, the rental market can be challenging; dealing with Lianjia agents, 12-month contracts, and police registration (deng ji) are steep hurdles for newcomers.
Coliving operators in Beijing smooth out these friction points. They offer flexible leases, English-friendly apps, and often handle the crucial "Accommodation Registration Form" required by the police. From renovated courtyards in Dongcheng to modern towers in Haidian's university district, these spaces provide a soft landing in the political and cultural heart of China.
While you can rent a standard apartment, the "Coliving Premium" here buys you compliance, community, and often a much higher standard of air filtration and heating than a typical local rental. The list below covers the top operators you need to know.
For a quick overview of the best options, here is the full list at a glance:
Top Beijing Coliving Companies (Quick Reference)
- lyf: (lyf Shougang Park) A vibrant, social-first coliving hotel located in the rejuvenated Winter Olympic industrial park.
- You+: A pioneer of the "youth community" model in China, focusing on affordable, dormitory-style living for entrepreneurs.
- Mofang: (Mofang Gongyu) A massive, standardized long-term rental operator with reliable, efficient apartments across residential districts.
- Here: (Here Housing) An expat-focused housing platform offering renovated, all-inclusive apartments with English-speaking support.
- Baishu Hutong: A boutique, high-end coliving residence set in a traditional alleyway (hutong) in the historic Dongcheng district.
- 5Lmeet: A luxury lifestyle and serviced apartment brand in the CBD (Guomao) blending work, life, and social events.
- Silver Door: A global booking agent specializing in vetted corporate housing and serviced apartments for business travelers.
- Ziroom: (Meeliving/Z-Space) China's rental giant offering an app-based experience for finding high-quality shared and private apartments.
lyf
lyf (managed by Ascott) is designed for the next generation of travelers. lyf Shougang Park Beijing is located in a stunning urban regeneration zone - an old steel mill turned Winter Olympic venue. It offers a unique industrial-chic aesthetic and facilitates community through shared social spaces like the "Bond" kitchen.
Location: Located at No 9, Lane 168 Xumin Road, Shijingshan District. It sits within the futuristic Shougang Park, surrounded by industrial heritage sites and lakes.
Website: https://www.discoverasr.com/en/lyf
Pricing: Mid-Range rates generally start from RMB 6,000 - 9,000 per month for long stays. Daily rates are available but are higher, positioning it as a premium lifestyle hotel.
Deposit: A standard 1-month deposit is typically required for long-term leases. Short stays function like a hotel booking with a credit card hold.
Rental Terms: Flexible terms from daily to monthly allow for easy extensions. Ideally suited for nomads wanting to explore a quieter, cooler side of Beijing.
Amenities: Features the "Bond" (social kitchen), "Burn" (social gym), and coworking spaces. The area is excellent for runners and outdoor enthusiasts due to the nearby parklands.
You+
You+ (You+ International Youth Community) is one of the pioneers of the "youth apartment" concept in China. It famously focuses on building a "family" atmosphere for young entrepreneurs and graduates. Note: Availability fluctuates; always check for active branches.
Location: Traditionally concentrated in Haidian District (Suzhou Bridge) and Chaoyang. These spots are chosen for their proximity to universities and tech startups.
Website: Search "You+ International Youth Community" on WeChat or Baidu Maps. They rely heavily on local social media channels for bookings and community updates.
Pricing: Budget-Friendly pricing often ranges from RMB 3,000 - 5,500 per month. This makes it one of the most accessible options for fresh graduates and founders.
Deposit: Standard deposit applies. Terms are designed to be accessible for the youth demographic they target.
Rental Terms: Flexible monthly to yearly terms. They prioritize tenants who fit the "young and ambitious" demographic to maintain the community vibe.
Amenities: Features huge communal lounges, game rooms, and shared kitchens. The atmosphere is very dorm-like, encouraging intense social interaction and networking.
Mofang
Mofang (Mofang Apartment) is a massive, standardized chain of long-term rental apartments. While less "social" than lyf, they offer a highly reliable, consistent product. If you want a clean, modern studio with no surprises and professional management, this is the safest mass-market choice.
Location: City-wide presence with buildings in almost every residential district. You can find units in Fengtai, Chaoyang, and near major subway lines.
Website: http://www.mofanggongyu.com
Pricing: Mid-Range studios typically range from RMB 4,500 - 7,500+ per month. Prices vary heavily based on proximity to the city center and subway stations.
Deposit: Standard 1-month deposit. The process is professional with clear contracts, avoiding the ambiguity of private landlords.
Rental Terms: Flexible terms from 1 month+. Excellent for mid-term stays where you need a fully functional private apartment rather than a hotel room.
Amenities: Includes 24/7 security, in-unit laundry, and often gym access. Apartments feature standardized "IKEA-style" modern furniture and layouts.
Here
Here (Here Housing) is a service tailored specifically for the international community. They bridge the gap between local landlords and expats, offering renovated, fully furnished apartments with "all-inclusive" bills and English support. They are excellent for navigating the initial landing in Beijing.
Location: Focuses on expat-heavy districts like Sanlitun, Dongcheng, and the CBD. Their HQ is in Shanghai but they manage a portfolio of premium Beijing units.
Website: https://www.hereici.com
Pricing: Mid-Range pricing starts around RMB 5,000 - 8,000+ per month. Rates include the premium service of English support and bill management.
Deposit: Standard deposit structures apply. Terms are transparent, avoiding the hidden fees often charged by local agents.
Rental Terms: Flexible terms with lease negotiation support. They also assist with the crucial police registration process for foreign residents.
Amenities: "Here Heroes" support helps with WeChat Pay, SIM cards, and banking. Apartments are fully renovated with modern aesthetics and Western-style comforts.
Baishu Hutong
Baishu Hutong Coliving offers a rare opportunity to live inside a traditional Beijing Hutong (alleyway) but with modern luxury. Located in a renovated courtyard, it provides a deeply authentic cultural experience without sacrificing comfort (heating, modern plumbing).
Location: Located in Dongcheng District, near Wangfujing. You are walking distance from the Forbidden City and the historic heart of the capital.
Website: Check listings on TheSquare or high-end serviced apartment platforms. Search for "Baishu Hutong Coliving Residences" to find specific availability.
Pricing: Premium rates can exceed RMB 18,000 - 21,000+ per month (£2,370+). You are paying for an exclusive, heritage experience in a modernized courtyard.
Deposit: Standard booking terms apply. Managed professionally to ensure the preservation of the historic property.
Rental Terms: Flexible terms. Ideal for culturally curious executives or diplomats wanting a unique Beijing experience.
Amenities: Rooftop terrace with views of old Beijing roofs. Interiors are modern and luxurious, featuring a shared high-end kitchen and a tight-knit community feel.
5Lmeet
5Lmeet is a luxury lifestyle brand located in the CBD. It combines a hotel, serviced apartments, and a social hub. It is designed for the modern executive who wants to live, work, and play in one sophisticated building.
Location: Located at 1 Jianguomen Outer Street, Chaoyang District. It sits directly across from the China World Trade Center in the Guomao CBD.
Website: Search "5Lmeet Beijing" or "5L Hotel" on booking platforms. The brand integrates workspace and living into a single lifestyle ecosystem.
Pricing: Luxury pricing often exceeds RMB 15,000+ per month for long stays. Short stays are priced at premium hotel rates.
Deposit: Standard booking hold or deposit. Terms are consistent with high-end serviced apartments.
Rental Terms: Daily to Yearly flexibility. tailored perfectly for business travelers and executives on assignment.
Amenities: Access to the "5Lmeet" ecosystem including shared offices and event spaces. The building hosts gyms, curated social events, and premium dining options.
Silver Door
Silver Door is not a building but a corporate housing agent. They are the best resource for business travelers needing vetted, high-quality serviced apartments in Beijing. They aggregate reputable providers, ensuring "duty of care" standards are met.
Location: City-wide listings cover major hubs like Chaoyang Park, Lido, and Financial Street. They connect you with vetted properties across the capital.
Website: https://www.silverdoor.com
Pricing: Corporate/High-End rates. Tailored for business budgets, ensuring quality and safety compliance.
Deposit: Platform Managed. Booking is professional and secure, often removing the need for cash transactions.
Rental Terms: Flexible terms. Perfect for relocation bridging or 3-month project stints requiring immediate occupancy.
Amenities: Vetted quality standards. They ensure reliable Wi-Fi, English-speaking front desks, and high safety standards across all listed properties.
Ziroom
Ziroom (Ziru) is the dominant force in China's rental market. Their app allows you to rent rooms in shared apartments (Ziroom Meeliving) or entire units (Ziroom Whole Rent). They renovate thousands of local apartments to a standardized quality and manage them digitally.
Location: Everywhere. Listings cover every district from the Second Ring Road to Tongzhou. It offers the widest network of housing in the city.
Website: https://www.ziroom.com
Pricing: Affordable to Mid-Range. Shared rooms start from RMB 2,500, while central studios range from RMB 6,000+. Service fees of ~10% apply.
Deposit: Standard 1-month deposit. The entire process from signing to payment is handled digitally within the app.
Rental Terms: Monthly to Yearly flexibility. "Ziroom Short" options are specifically available for leases under a year.
Amenities: Bi-weekly cleaning service is included in the service fee. The app allows you to unlock your door and request repairs instantly.
Beijing is a rewarding but complex city to navigate, and choosing the right coliving space can make the difference between a stressful arrival and a smooth adventure.
- The "Police Registration" Imperative: This is the most critical rule for foreigners in Beijing. You must register your address with the local police station (Paichusuo) within 24 hours of arrival. If you stay at a hotel-style coliving space like lyf or 5Lmeet, the front desk does this for you automatically. However, if you rent a room via Ziroom or You+, you must physically go to the police station with your contract and landlord's documents. Operators like Here Housing are invaluable because they actively assist with this paperwork, preventing potential fines or visa issues.
- The Great Firewall & Connectivity: Internet speed in Beijing is fast, but the "Great Firewall" blocks Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Slack. High-end serviced apartments (via Silver Door or 5Lmeet) often provide "foreign-friendly" internet packages. If you choose a local option like Mofang, ensure you have a robust VPN installed on all your devices before you land.
- Navigating the Digital Ecosystem: You cannot survive in Beijing with just cash or a Visa card. Everything from paying rent to unlocking your Ziroom apartment door happens on WeChat or Alipay. Before you arrive, try to set up "Alipay Tour Pass" or get a local to help you activate WeChat Pay immediately. Agencies like Here are excellent bridges for this, helping you navigate the digital landscape while you get your bank account sorted.
- Choose Your District, Choose Your Life: Beijing is massive, and traffic is heavy. If you want history, culture, and hipster cafes, choose the Hutongs of Dongcheng (Baishu Hutong). If you are here for tech and startups, Haidian (You+) is your hub. For a westernized lifestyle with import grocery stores and bars, stick to Chaoyang/Sanlitun (Here, 5Lmeet).
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