Yang Wenhao, 28, stands on a subway on April 25, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

Yang moved from Central China's Henan province to Beijing six years ago. Now the 28-year-old engages in internet financial work, and spends nearly 1,000 yuan each month renting a single room.

"Many of my friends have left Beijing to work in other cities, and I think it's inevitable for many people, like me, to experience an 'empty-nest' youth period," he said.

"Living alone is boring other than lonely. Women living alone may have more lonely feelings than men, so it's better to make some friends and cultivate some hobbies."