The methods of monitoring large-scale land subsidence by static and kinematic differential global positioning system (DGPS) were described in detail. Resulting from different reference planes
the difference between the measured subsidence by GPS and by leveling were investigated. An example of monitoring Tianjin land subsidence by GPS was given. Through analyzing the accuracy of Tianjin land subsidence monitored by GPS in 1999-2002
it was shown that static DGPS can take the place of long-distance precise leveling for monitoring large-scale land subsidence.