How 20,000 People Live Together in a Building
The World’s Largest Residential Tower
In Hangzhou, China, a massive S-shaped skyscraper houses over 20,000 residents.
Standing 675 feet tall with more than 5,000 apartments, it is often called the largest residential building in the world.
From Hotel to Housing
Originally designed as a luxury hotel, the tower was converted into affordable housing that
now attracts students, graduates, and professionals.
Living Options
Apartments range from tiny studios—some windowless—to larger multi-room units.
Rent starts at about 1,500 RMB ($210) and goes up to 4,000 RMB ($570), far cheaper than housing in cities like New York or London.
A Vertical City
Inside the tower are supermarkets, gyms, food courts, pools, and even internet cafés.
Each wing feels like its own neighborhood, creating a true “vertical city.”
While some view it as innovative and others as dystopian, for residents it’s simply home.
