Ex-Programmer Makes 50,000 RMB/Month Selling Street Food: The Chinese Side Hustle Economy
From Software Developer to Street Food Vendor: A Programmer Earns 50,000 RMB Monthly Selling Meat Egg Burgers
A 35-year-old software developer in Beijing has quit his programming job to sell meat egg burgers (rou dan bao) from a street stall, reportedly earning 50,000 RMB per month with daily sales exceeding 1,000 units at 5 RMB each.
The Story
Liu, formerly a software developer, decided to pursue a more autonomous lifestyle. After extensive recipe development, he launched his street food business with a commitment to quality: sourcing ingredients from premium suppliers like Pangdonglai and Sam Club, using open kitchens, and refusing any artificial additives.
Business Model
- Unit price: 5 RMB per meat egg burger
- Daily volume: 1,000+ units
- Monthly revenue: Approximately 150,000 RMB (1,000 x 5 x 30)
- Monthly profit: Estimated 50,000 RMB after costs
- Current state: Already hired 4 employees, preparing to open additional locations
Why This Resonates
The story went viral on Zhihu (5.51M views) because it touches several nerves in Chinese society:
- Tech burnout: The relentless pace of Chinese tech industry (996 culture) driving professionals to seek alternatives
- Income reality: A street food vendor potentially out-earning many mid-level developers
- Downshifting trend: Young professionals choosing quality of life over prestigious but stressful careers
- Entrepreneurial spirit: The accessibility of street food as a business with low barriers to entry
Skeptical Voices
Commenters question whether the income figure accounts for all costs including permits, equipment, health inspections, and the physical toll of daily street food preparation. The scalability is also debated.
Source: Zhihu — 5.51M views, Beijing