This paper presents selected information from the Urban Household Survey (UHS)
conducted by the State Statistical Bureau of China for the two provinces Sichuan and
Liaoning for 1986-90. The UHS is a comprehensive survey of urban households from cities
all over China, based on household records of income and outlays for the complete year in
addition to socio-demographic background variables, quality of dwellings, inventory of
durables, etc. The survey includes consumption and income data which allow comparison
between the Chinese urban living standard and other countries, as well as assessment of the
income inequality in the Chinese society. Through the survey data the aftereffects of the
Cultural Revolution can also be traced.