Cost of Living in Taiwan

The cost of living in Taiwan varies depending on your lifestyle and the area you choose to live in. While rural areas and cities in the south tend to be more affordable, most foreign nationals relocate to Taipei, which is the most expensive city in the country.

While Taipei has the highest cost of living in Taiwan, it is still significantly cheaper than regional powerhouses such as Beijing, Seoul, Singapore, and Hong Kong. That said, the country has a strong consumer culture, and living in Taipei in particular means navigating a steady stream of trends, merchandise, and entertainment options, which can make budgeting a challenge.

Moving to Taipei

Cost of accommodation in Taiwan

Accommodation in Taiwan can be pricey, and homes are generally small and only have basic amenities. Affordable studio apartments will most likely lack a kitchen. Additionally, buildings tend to suffer under the humid climate, and cheaper accommodation is often plagued by mould and mildew.

Utilities are broadly affordable, although electricity bills increase significantly during the hot summer months, when it is all but impossible to live without air conditioning. Stoves and geysers are usually powered by gas, which helps minimise costs. The cost of rubbish bags, which are sold at a premium to encourage recycling, might come as a shock to new arrivals.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Taiwan

Cost of transport in Taiwan

Taiwan boasts a modern and reliable public transport system, with Taipei leading the way in terms of accessibility. The vast majority of both locals and expats in the city use public transport, as it’s possible to get anywhere at any time without a car.

Owning a car is a significant expense, as the monthly costs include car repayments, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and the incredibly high parking fees.

Many locals (and some brave expats) have small motorcycles or scooters, which are cheap and convenient, but can be a somewhat dangerous way to get around. Cycling is a viable way of getting around in Taipei, thanks to the city's flat roads.

Transport and Driving in Taiwan

Cost of groceries in Taiwan

Groceries in Taiwan are generally affordable for expats, but costs vary by city. Major urban centres like Taipei and Taichung tend to be pricier than smaller towns. Basic staples such as rice, eggs, and local vegetables remain inexpensive when compared to many Western countries, though imported foods and speciality products cost noticeably more.

Buying local produce is a great way to save money and eat healthy at the same time. In-season fruits and vegetables are cheap in peak harvest months, with prices climbing in the off-season. The overall monthly food costs in Taiwan are substantially lower than in many Western countries. However, your budget will rise if you regularly buy imported goods or shop at convenience stores.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Taiwan

Eating out in Taiwan is affordable if you stick to local options. Night markets, street stalls, and small neighbourhood eateries are great options for authentic meals at low prices, making dining out regularly an appealing option. On the other hand, the cost of eating at high-end restaurants is generally more in line with what you would expect from Europe or North America.

As for entertainment, there are numerous options to choose from at varying prices. Cinemas, karaoke bars, and cultural events such as operas and concerts are all popular, but costs can vary significantly. Outdoor activities, like hiking or visiting parks and temples, provide cost-effective entertainment alternatives.

Cost of education in Taiwan

The overall cost of education in Taiwan depends on whether you send your children to local public schools or international schools. International and private schools are significantly more expensive than public schools, but tuition varies widely by institution and city. Be sure to keep accommodation costs in mind when sending your children to school in Taiwan. You may need to opt for more expensive housing in closer proximity to your chosen school to keep commuting times at an acceptable level.

Best International Schools in Taipei

Cost of healthcare in Taiwan

The healthcare system in Taiwan is extremely advanced, and high-quality care comes at a low cost. If you’re an employee in Taiwan, your employer is legally required to subsidise your health insurance. Foreign employees will be placed on the National Health Insurance and receive the same benefits as Taiwanese locals. In this system, you’ll pay a small stipend to access doctors, hospitalisation, dentistry, prescription medicine, and more.

Healthcare in Taiwan