The Cost of Living in Taiwan | An Expert Guide

Taiwan combines modern urban living with traditional Asian culture while maintaining relatively moderate living costs. With a population of approximately 23 million people, Taiwan offers sophisticated infrastructure and high living standards, particularly in urban centers like Taipei and Taichung.

Taiwan's economy is driven by technology, manufacturing, and services sectors, with global companies like TSMC and Foxconn headquartered here. The country provides excellent public services and infrastructure while keeping many living costs lower than other developed Asian nations like Japan or Singapore.

The expatriate community in Taiwan is concentrated primarily in Taipei, particularly in areas like Xinyi, Da'an, and Tianmu, with smaller populations in Taichung, Kaohsiung, and other major cities. Many are drawn by opportunities in technology, education, and international business, along with the high quality of life and reasonable living costs.

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Regional Comparison

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Housing Costs in Taiwan

Housing costs in Taiwan vary significantly between Taipei and other cities. In Taipei's popular expatriate areas, a one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 20,000-30,000 TWD monthly, while similar accommodations in residential areas range from 15,000-20,000 TWD. Other major cities offer more affordable options, with city center apartments typically costing 12,000-18,000 TWD monthly.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Taipei prime): 20,000-30,000 TWD/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Taipei residential): 15,000-20,000 TWD/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (other cities): 12,000-18,000 TWD/month

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Food Costs in Taiwan

Food expenses in Taiwan can be very reasonable, particularly when embracing local cuisine. A meal at a local restaurant costs 80-150 TWD, while dinner at a Western restaurant might run 300-600 TWD per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like Carrefour or PX Mart typically costs 6,000-9,000 TWD for one person, though night markets and local shops offer more affordable options.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 80-150 TWD
• Western restaurant dinner: 300-600 TWD
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 6,000-9,000 TWD

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Transportation Costs in Taiwan

Public transportation in Taiwanese cities is excellent and affordable. In Taipei, a monthly MRT pass costs around 1,280 TWD, while single journeys cost 20-65 TWD depending on distance. YouBike (public bike sharing) is also popular and inexpensive. Taxis are reasonable, with a 5km journey typically costing 150-200 TWD.

Summary:

• Public transport monthly pass: 1,280 TWD
• Single journey ticket: 20-65 TWD
• Taxi (5km journey): 150-200 TWD

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Healthcare Costs in Taiwan

Healthcare in Taiwan operates through the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, mandatory for all residents. Monthly premiums are approximately 4.69% of income, with employers covering partial costs. A hospital visit with NHI typically costs 150-450 TWD depending on the facility level. Private clinics may charge additional fees.

Summary:

• NHI premium: 4.69% of income
• Hospital visit (with NHI): 150-450 TWD
• Private clinic visit: 600-1,500 TWD

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Utility Costs in Taiwan

Utility costs in Taiwan vary seasonally, with higher expenses during summer for air conditioning. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and gas typically range from 2,000-4,000 TWD for an apartment. Internet service costs 600-1,000 TWD monthly for high-speed connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 500-1,000 TWD monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 2,000-4,000 TWD/month
• Internet: 600-1,000 TWD/month
• Mobile phone plan: 500-1,000 TWD/month

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Example Monthly Expenses in Taiwan

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in Taipei:

• Rent (1-bedroom, decent area): 25,000 TWD
• Utilities: 3,000 TWD
• Food: 8,000 TWD
• Transportation: 1,500 TWD
• Healthcare (NHI): Based on income
• Internet/Phone: 1,200 TWD
• Entertainment: 5,000 TWD
• Total: ~45,000 TWD

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Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

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If you want to know more about Taiwan and the cost of living there you can also check out the Taiwan page.