Is This Teaching Offer in Shenyang a Solid Deal?

So, you’ve received a teaching offer in Shenyang, China. The numbers look something like this: a monthly salary of 20,000 RMB after tax, a 2,000 RMB housing allowance, and a schedule of around 30 hours per week with up to 25 teaching hours. On paper, it seems promising. But is it a “solid deal” for this historic northeastern city? Let’s break it down.

The Salary: A Strong Starting Point

First, the financials. 20,000 RMB net per month is a very competitive salary for Shenyang. It’s important to remember that cost of living varies dramatically across China. In megacities like Shanghai or Beijing, this might be a standard mid-level offer. In Shenyang, however, your money will go significantly further.

• Housing: The additional 2,000 RMB housing stipend is a crucial piece. While it may not cover a luxury apartment in the city center, it will comfortably contribute to a nice, modern apartment, especially if you are willing to live a short commute from your school. Securing housing support is always a major win, saving you from large upfront deposits and complex contracts.

The Workload: Reading Between the Lines

The schedule description—”around 30 hours a week with up to 25 teaching hours”—requires careful consideration.

• Teaching Hours vs. Office Hours: A cap of 25 teaching hours is excellent. Teaching is energetically demanding, and this leaves a reasonable buffer. However, the “30 hours total” means you likely have 5 hours of office time for lesson planning, grading, and meetings. This is a very fair balance. Be wary of contracts that push teaching hours closer to 30.

• Clarity is Key: The phrasing “up to” is standard, but you should seek clarity. Is 25 the absolute maximum, or an average that could be exceeded during peak seasons? A well-defined limit in your contract is your best protection.

Shenyang as Your Home Base

Beyond the contract, consider the city itself. Shenyang is the capital of Liaoning Province, rich in history (home to the UNESCO-listed Shenyang Imperial Palace) and known for its distinct culture and cuisine.

• Cost of Living Advantage: Your salary will afford you a comfortable lifestyle. Dining out, local travel, and utilities are generally more affordable than in first-tier coastal cities.
• Authentic Experience: You’ll be immersed in a more localized Chinese environment with fewer English speakers, which can accelerate your language learning and cultural integration.
• Weather & Location: Prepare for proper winters—it gets cold! But Shenyang is also a fantastic gateway to explore Northeast Asia, with Korea and Japan a short flight away.

The Verdict: A Deal Worth Considering

This offer appears to be a solid and above-average package for the Shenyang market. The post-tax salary is strong, the housing allowance is a big plus, and the teaching hour cap is respectful.

Before you sign, make sure to clarify:

• Is the 25 teaching hour maximum contractually guaranteed?
• What are the exact details of the housing allowance? Is it paid directly to you?
• What other benefits are included? (Flight reimbursement, health insurance, contract completion bonus, paid holidays?)
• What is the school’s reputation? Try to connect with current or former teachers.

For a teacher seeking an authentic Chinese experience in a historically significant city without the intense financial pressure of the coastal hubs, this package is definitely a contender. It provides a strong foundation for savings, travel, and a high quality of life. Do your due diligence on the school itself, but the terms presented are certainly attractive.