The PayPal USD to CNY rate is 6.866. This is -5.8% below the mid-rate. Compare PayPal currency conversion rates - Reduce FX costs.
The PayPal USD to CNY exchange rate is 6.866. This is -5.8% compared to the latest USD-CNY mid-market rate 7.2877.
As exchange rates can vary significantly between banks and also between currency exchange providers, it's therefore important to carefully compare US dollar (USD) to Chinese yuan (CNY) rates from different sources before making a conversion.
Looking at our comparison table the best USD to CNY exchange rate is 7.2403 from Wise, -0.65% from the mid-market rate 7.2877. The next best rate is 7.1711 from Western Union, -1.6% from the mid-rate. Then WorldRemit with 7.1128 is -2.4% from the mid-rate.
Among the banks, the Chase Bank rate is 6.6182 at -9.2%, the Wells Fargo Bank rate is 6.5745 at -9.8%, and the Citibank rate is 6.9097 at -5.2% compared to the mid-rate 7.2877.
It's important to note that exchange rates also fluctuate frequently due to market conditions. Additionally, banks and foreign exchange providers often apply a margin to the exchange rate, resulting in a less favorable rate for customers compared to the mid-market rate. For more competitive rates, you might consider using a specialized currency exchange service or platforms that offer rates closer to the mid-market rate.
The PayPal Dollar to Yuan comparison table above makes it easy to compare the Total Fees (both variable and fixed) you are being charged by PayPal and other foreign exchange providers against the latest USD-CNY mid-rate (see Market Data below ) and the possible savings of using various providers.
When you use the PayPal to make a foreign transfer the total cost will depend on how you pay, but generally you will be charged between 4%-7% percent of the total amount being converted depending on how you pay.
When you use a debit/credit card to pay for your transfer you will be charged an extra 3% when you load your PayPal wallet.
How is the PayPal exchange rate calculated?
The base foreign exchange rate at which PayPal obtains foreign currency is determined by 3rd party financial institutions, and are adjusted regularly based on market conditions. The exchange rate that PayPal then provides you also includes a processing fee above the base rate.
The exchange rate provided by PayPal is fixed for each currency and does not change for small or large amounts.
If you use your credit card to send a payment, you can usually opt to use your credit card provider’s conversion rate instead of PayPal's.
If you choose to use MasterCard or Visa’s exchange rate, the applied conversion rate will be shown on your credit card statement, and not at the time of the transaction.
When you use the PayPal App in the US to send a payment to a different currency, you will be using Xoom, a PayPal Service.
US dollar (USD) to Chinese yuan (CNY) market data - latest interbank exchange rate, trend, chart & historic rates.
Date | USD/CNY | Change | Period |
---|---|---|---|
11 Apr 2025 | 7.2922 | 0.1% ▼ | 2 Week |
25 Jan 2025 | 7.2441 | 0.6% ▲ | 3 Month |
25 Apr 2024 | 7.2396 | 0.7% ▲ | 1 Year |
26 Apr 2020 | 7.0819 | 2.9% ▲ | 5 Year |
28 Apr 2015 | 6.1855 | 17.8% ▲ | 10 Year |
30 Apr 2005 | 8.2732 | 11.9% ▼ | 20 Year |
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to CNY (US dollar to Chinese yuan)*.
*Converted at the current USDCNY interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
The USD to CNY exchange rate has been influenced by recent developments in trade relations and economic performance in both the United States and China. Analysts report that the US dollar initially gained traction on hopes of reducing trade tensions, particularly after President Trump's comments on tariffs. However, the dollar has faced mixed movement as risk appetite in the markets tempered its advance, leading to a slight decline later in the day.
Read our full review of recent USD to CNY forecasts.
There are several ways to save on exchange rates when converting US dollar to Chinese yuan:
Generally speaking, if you are buying Chinese yuan with US dollar, then it's better for the USD/CNY exchange rate to be higher.
However working against you are the fees all foreign exchange providers charge for providing their service. These fees is usually contained within the exchange rate margin (or difference to the mid-rate).
The transaction margin you end up being charged can be considerably reduced by around a few percent (of total amount being exchanged) for travel money and possibly over 5% to 6% when sending money. The exact potential savings depends on the currencies being exchanged and the amount you are transferring and if you are willing to shop around.
Our real-time foreign transfer and travel money/cards comparison calculators make shopping around easy and help you calculate how much you can save.
Read our Currency guide to China — a practical currency and money guide to travel in China plus living and doing business with the Chinese yuan.
It's worth noting that while these tips can help you save on exchange rates, it's important to be aware that no single method is guaranteed to provide the best exchange rate in every situation, and it may require some research and comparison-shopping to find the best option for your specific needs.
It is almost impossible to predict what an exchange rate will do in the future, the best approach is to monitor the currency markets and transact when an exchange rate moves in your favour.
To help with this you can add USD/CNY to your personalised Rate Tracker to track and benefit from currency movements.
Rather than requiring you to set a target rate, our Rate Alerts keep you informed of recent trends and movements of currency pairs.
Add rates to your Rate Tracker and select to receive an daily email (mon-fri) or when a rate is trending
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The expat life in China can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including one's location, job, and personal circumstances.
In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, the expat community is well-established and there are many resources available for newcomers, such as expat-oriented social groups and clubs. Living in these cities can offer a good balance of modern conveniences and cultural experiences.
However, life in smaller cities or more rural areas can be more challenging, as the expat community may be smaller and there may be fewer resources available.
Working in China as an expat can be both rewarding and challenging. Some companies will provide good support to expats and may even offer language classes and relocation assistance, while others may not.
Read more at our China (CNY) country guide
The US dollar has fallen to a three-year low, influenced by Trump policy back flips plus concerns over the Federal Reserve's independence. Analysts suggest a long-overdue correction due to overvaluation and trade tensions.
The Swiss franc has experienced a significant surge, reaching a decade-high against the U.S. dollar, following President Donald Trump's announcement of increased tariffs on Chinese imports. This development has intensified market volatility and heightened demand for safe-haven assets.
Further reading on the Chinese yuan (CNY) - Guides, Reviews & News from our research team.
Forecasts disclaimer: Please be advised that the forecasts and analysis of market data presented on BestExchangeRates.com are solely a review and compilation of forecasts from various market experts and economists. These forecasts are not meant to reflect the opinions or views of BestExchangeRates.com or its affiliates, nor should they be construed as a recommendation or advice to engage in any financial transactions. Read more
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