When it comes to second and third tier cities in China, it really means great business opportunities, especially in light of the investment, infrastructure and talent associated with these cities. According to Joe Mullich in the Wall Street Journal, roughly 170 Chinese cities have more than 1 million residents but only Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen are considered first tier cities. The same article indicates that many of the lower tier cities are located in central China but have access to highways and trains making these cities readily accessible. The following infographic compares consumer characteristics within each tier of cities showing the vast opportunities in tier 2 and 3 cities.