Shanghai vs Beijing - City Size Comparison

Is Shanghai Bigger Than Beijing?

Yes — Beijing is 2.6x larger than Shanghai by area. Beijing spans 16,411 km² (6,336 mi²) while Shanghai covers 6,341 km² (2,448 mi²) — a difference of 10,070 km². You could fit Shanghai inside Beijing approximately 2 times.

About Shanghai

China's largest city and a global financial hub. Known as "The Pearl of the Orient", Shanghai covers 6,341 km² with a population of 24.9 million. The city was established in 1291. Shanghai is known for The Bund waterfront, Pudong skyline, Yuyuan Garden, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Shanghai Metro.

Shanghai's Maglev train reaches 431 km/h, the fastest commercial train in the world

About Beijing

China's capital and political center. Often called "The Northern Capital", Beijing has an area of 16,411 km² and is home to 21.5 million people. The city dates back to 1045 BC. Visitors come for The Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Beijing Subway.

Beijing's administrative area of 16,411 km² makes it larger than many small countries

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Beijing metropolitan area covers 16,411 km², which is 2.6x larger than greater Shanghai at 6,341 km². The Shanghai metro area is also more populous, with 28.5 million people compared to 21.5 million.

Population Density

Shanghai has a population density of 3,922 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Beijing, with 1,313 people per km², is a relatively spread-out city. Shanghai is noticeably denser, packing 3.0 times more people per square kilometer.

Climate & Time Zone

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate while Beijing experiences humid continental conditions.