The average salary of white-collar workers in Shanghai has reached 7,214 yuan ($1,173) per month, leading all mainland cities, sources said.

In its latest talent supply and demand report, Chinese recruitment firm Zhaopin Ltd said Shanghai's office employees earn the most among all cities across the nation, but they face very fierce competition as each post is chased by at least 48 candidates, Shanghai-based Labor Daily reported on Friday.

According to online data, the nation's average ratio of talent supply and demand was 45.2:1 after the Lunar New Year holiday, which means an average of 45.2 applicants for each position. Shenzhen, Guangdong province, is regarded as the most difficult location for job hunting as each applicant has to compete with 71.1 others.

Beijing lagged behind Shanghai with 300 yuan less in average salaries, and Shenzhen ranked third at 6,819 yuan per month.

Contact the writer at wang_ying@chinadaily.com.cn