Young Chinese Are “Retiring” in the Countryside: A Response to Job Market Struggles

As China faces rising unemployment rates, many young people are taking an unexpected route: retreating to the countryside to “retire.” Frustrated with job prospects in the cities, these young adults, primarily Gen Z and millennials, are embracing rural life and documenting their experiences on social media.

The Unemployment Crisis

The struggle to find good jobs is particularly tough for China’s youth. This year, a record 11.8 million college graduates entered the job market, making competition fierce. In August, the youth unemployment rate hit an alarming 18.8%, the highest since record-keeping began. With the economy faltering, young people are looking for alternative lifestyles.

A New Way of Life

Many of these self-identified “retirees” share their journeys online, showcasing their new rural lives. One example is 22-year-old Wenzi Dada, who moved to a bamboo shack in Guizhou province. After trying various jobs, he decided to seek peace in the countryside. “Life isn’t just about city hustle; the tranquility of the countryside has its beauty,” he shared on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.

Wenzi posts videos of his daily activities, like cooking and harvesting vegetables, and his followers enjoy the slower pace of life he represents.

Why Are They “Retiring”?

Experts point to several reasons why young people are opting out of the urban job market. Many educated young adults find the available jobs, such as delivery or manufacturing roles, unappealing and prefer to stay at home or in rural areas instead. “They’d rather wait for a better opportunity,” says Keyu Jin, an economics professor at the London School of Economics.

This lifestyle shift has sparked debate. Critics argue that these young people are simply being lazy or overly picky. However, Wenzi rebuts this sentiment, stating, “This isn’t about giving up; it’s about preparing for a fulfilling future.”

A New Trend: Youth Nursing Homes

Some businesses are even catering to this trend by opening “youth nursing homes.” These facilities are designed as retreat spaces for young people seeking a slower lifestyle. They typically welcome only those under 45, focusing on providing a tranquil environment for reflection and relaxation.

While some view these homes as marketing gimmicks, they reflect a broader sense of distress among young Chinese. “These spaces offer a chance to breathe and reset,” says Jia Miao, an assistant professor at NYU Shanghai.

The Future of Rural Retreats

Despite the appeal of rural life, many experts believe this trend may not last. Rural areas often lack the modern amenities and opportunities young people desire. “This migration is likely to be temporary,” warns Dan Wang, chief economist at Hang Seng Bank China. “Ultimately, these young individuals still aspire to return to the cities.”

As young Chinese continue to navigate a challenging job market, their retreat to the countryside highlights both their resilience and the pressing need for change in the urban employment landscape.