Hefei

Quality of life in Hefei

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

Introduction

Hefei, the capital of Anhui Province in China, is a city that beautifully blends its historical roots with modern advancements. Known for its strategic location in eastern China, Hefei serves as a major hub for science and education, with numerous universities and research institutions.

The city is rapidly growing, with a vibrant economy driven by technology, manufacturing, and service industries. Hefei's cultural scene is equally dynamic, offering a mix of traditional Chinese culture and contemporary arts. This unique combination makes Hefei an attractive destination for both tourists and business professionals.

Climate
Outstanding
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Healthcare
Fair
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Traffic
Very High
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Affordability
Very Expensive
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Crime
Very Low
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Pollution
High
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History and Culture

Hefei has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years, with its origins in the Han Dynasty. Historically, it has been a significant military and administrative center due to its strategic location. The city played a crucial role during the Three Kingdoms period, particularly in the famous Battle of Hefei.

Culturally, Hefei is known for its contributions to Chinese opera and traditional arts. The city hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating its heritage and the diverse communities that call it home. Notable figures from Hefei include Bao Zheng, a revered Song Dynasty official known for his fairness and integrity.

Hefei's cultural institutions, such as the Anhui Museum and the Hefei Grand Theatre, showcase the city's artistic and historical significance. The city's ethnic diversity is reflected in its culinary scene, with a variety of local dishes that highlight Anhui cuisine's unique flavors.

Things to do in Hefei

Visitors to Hefei can explore a variety of attractions, from historical sites to modern entertainment venues. The Baohe Park, named after the famous official Bao Zheng, offers a serene environment with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

For those interested in history, the Anhui Museum provides insights into the region's past with its extensive collection of artifacts. The Hefei Wildlife Park is a popular destination for families, offering a chance to see a wide range of animals in naturalistic settings.

Hefei's vibrant arts scene can be experienced at the Hefei Grand Theatre, which hosts performances ranging from traditional Chinese opera to contemporary music and dance. The city's culinary offerings are not to be missed, with local specialties such as Luzhou roast duck and stinky tofu providing a taste of Anhui's rich food culture.

See top attractions and things to do in Hefei

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for China reflect how livable a city in China is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Hefei

Hefei, China experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, damp winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 40 inches (1000 mm), with June being the wettest month, averaging around 8 inches (200 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 59°F (15°C) in March to 79°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving significant precipitation, averaging around 6 inches (150 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The hottest months, with average highs ranging from 86°F (30°C) in June to 92°F (33°C) in July. Rainfall is at its peak in June, averaging around 8 inches (200 mm), but decreases slightly in July and August.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 82°F (28°C) in September to 59°F (15°C) in November. Rainfall remains moderate, averaging around 3 inches (75 mm) per month.
  • Winter (December to February)The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 48°F (9°C) in December to 46°F (8°C) in February. Snowfall is rare, but the city experiences occasional frosty conditions.
Notable Weather Events
  • Heatwaves during July and August
  • Heavy rainfall and potential flooding in June
  • Occasional frost in winter months

Hefei's Political Climate

Chinese Communist Party

Hefei, the capital city of Anhui Province in China, is a rapidly growing urban center with a dynamic political climate. As a city under the direct administration of the provincial government, Hefei's political landscape is heavily influenced by the policies and directives of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The city's governance is characterized by a strong emphasis on economic development, technological innovation, and urban modernization, aligning with national priorities set by the central government.

Historically, Hefei has been a focal point for regional development strategies, benefiting from its strategic location and government-backed initiatives. The city's leadership is committed to transforming Hefei into a hub for science and technology, with significant investments in research institutions and high-tech industries. This focus on innovation is reflected in the city's policies, which prioritize sustainable urban development and environmental protection.

In recent years, Hefei has seen a surge in civic engagement, with residents increasingly participating in local governance through community organizations and public consultations. This trend is indicative of a broader national movement towards greater public involvement in policy-making, albeit within the framework of the CCP's overarching control. Key political issues in Hefei include urbanization challenges, environmental sustainability, and social welfare improvements.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter TurnoutN/A (Single-party system)
  • City GovernanceMunicipal government under provincial administration
  • CompositionDominated by the Chinese Communist Party
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on technological innovation and environmental policies
  • EngagementModerate, with growing public participation in community initiatives
  • Political ScorecardHigh in governance efficiency, moderate in transparency
  • Legislative PrioritiesTechnological innovation Sustainable urban development Social welfare improvements
  • Public OpinionGenerally supportive of government policies, with increasing interest in environmental and social issues
Notable Political Figures
  • Wang QingxianCurrent Party Secretary of Hefei, known for promoting economic development and innovation.
  • Ling YunMayor of Hefei, focuses on urban modernization and public welfare.
  • Zhang JianDeputy Mayor, advocates for environmental sustainability and green policies.