The rearing system is a critical non-genetic factor that can considerably affect poultry production. Aims. This study examined the effects of floor rearing systems (FRS), net rearing systems and cage rearing systems (CRS) on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality and serum biochemical parameters of Gaoyou ducks. Methods. A total of 450 healthy 22-day-old male Gaoyou ducks with similar average bodyweight were randomly divided into the FRS, net rearing systems and CRS groups. The experiment lasted from 22 to 84 days of age. Key results. CRS ducks had a higher final bodyweight, average daily feed intake and average daily gain, and a lower feed-to-gain ratio P < 0.05). FRS ducks had higher breast and gizzard yields and shear force, and lower drip loss and abdominal fat content (P < 0.05). Moreover, FRS ducks had significantly lower glucose, total protein and triglyceride, and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (P < 0.05). Conclusions. CRS was beneficial to the growth performance of Gaoyou ducks, whereas FRS was beneficial to carcass traits, meat quality and some serum biochemical parameters. Implications. The results indicated that the CRS and FRS had their own advantages. Thus, an appropriate rearing system should be selected according to the production target and market demand.