Cost of Living in Taiwan: Taiwan is a popular destination for international students due to its affordable education, vibrant culture, and high quality of life. However, understanding the cost of living in Taiwan is essential for budgeting and financial planning. The island nation offers a mix of modern conveniences and traditional lifestyle, making it an exciting place for students.
With a proper budget plan, students can enjoy their stay without financial stress. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of monthly expenses, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and more to help students make informed decisions.
Table of Contents
- Average Cost of Living in Taiwan
- Average Tuition Fees in Taiwan
- Accommodation Costs in Taiwan
- Food and Grocery Expenses
- Transportation Costs in Taiwan
- Utility and Internet Bills
- Healthcare and Insurance
- Entertainment and Miscellaneous Expenses
- Cost of Living in Taiwan Compared to Other Countries
- Why Choose Taiwan?
- Tips for Saving Money in Taiwan
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Taiwan
Average Cost of Living in Taiwan
The cost of living in Taiwan varies depending on lifestyle, location, and personal spending habits. On average, a single person can expect to spend around TWD 24,432 per month on daily expenses, excluding rent. The monthly rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment typically falls between TWD 10,793 and TWD 26,000, depending on the city and neighborhood.
Food expenses make up a significant portion of the budget, averaging TWD 12,554 per month, while transportation costs are relatively affordable at approximately TWD 1,200 per month.
Several factors influence overall living expenses, including accommodation choices, dining habits, and personal expenditures. Below, we explore the key components that contribute to the cost of living in Taiwan.
Average Tuition Fees in Taiwan
Besides the cost of living, one of the biggest concerns for students in Taiwan is whether they can afford tuition fees. With proper financial planning, students can make the most of their budget and get a quality education at their preferred university or college without overspending.
Knowing the tuition fees at Taiwanese universities is important because they greatly affect the total cost of studying in Taiwan. To help with this, we’ve provided a table below showing the average tuition fees charged by universities in Taiwan.
| Courses | Average Annual Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate Courses | TWD 51,000 – TWD 78,000 |
| Postgraduate Courses | TWD 50,000 – TWD 79,000 |
| PhD Courses | TWD 142,000 |
Accommodation Costs in Taiwan
Housing is one of the biggest expenses for students, but Taiwan offers different options to fit various budgets. The cost of living in Taiwan depends largely on the type of accommodation a student chooses. Rent in Taipei, the capital, is higher compared to cities like Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung. Dormitories are the most budget-friendly choice, while private apartments tend to be more expensive. When looking for housing, students should consider factors like location, facilities, and proximity to their university. Here’s an overview of housing expenses in Taiwan.
| Apartment Location | Approx. Monthly Rent |
| Monthly Rent for a One-bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | TWD 14,892 |
| Monthly Rent for a One-bedroom Apartment (Outside of the Centre) | TWD 10,793 |
| Monthly Rent for a Three-bedroom Apartment (City Centre) | TWD 35,018 |
| Monthly Rent for a 3-bedroom Apartment (Outside of the Centre) | TWD 25,538 |
Food and Grocery Expenses
Food in Taiwan is both delicious and affordable, especially for students who enjoy night market snacks and local eateries. The cost of living in Taiwan for students can be managed effectively by eating at budget-friendly food stalls. Local markets and small restaurants offer meals at much lower prices compared to Western-style restaurants. The table below highlights the average food expenses in Taiwan that you can expect to budget for while living in the country.
| Restaurants and types of meals | Approx. Cost |
| Meal at a budget-friendly restaurant | TWD 150 |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | TWD 1,000 |
| Combo meal at McDonald’s (or similar fast-food chain) | TWD 159 |
| Regular cappuccino | TWD 96 |
While eating out is common in Taiwan, students who cook at home can save money and enjoy a healthier diet. The average monthly grocery cost in Taiwan is TWD 9,200, covering essentials like milk, fruits, vegetables, and other food items. Since groceries are a regular expense for those who cook at home, they can significantly impact the cost of living in Taiwan. If you plan to prepare your own meals, the table below shows the average grocery prices in Taiwan.
| Grocery Item | Approx. Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | TWD 96.85 |
| Apples (1kg) | TWD 131.68 |
| Banana (1kg) | TWD 67 |
| Oranges (1kg) | TWD 80.78 |
| Tomato (1kg) | TWD 104.41 |
| Potato (1kg) | TWD 88.08 |
| Onion (1kg) | TWD 73.62 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | TWD 60.51 |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | TWD 35.86 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | TWD 60.54 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | TWD 97.64 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | TWD 90.51 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | TWD 475.57 |
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Transportation Costs in Taiwan
Taiwan’s public transportation system is efficient and student-friendly. The cost of living in Taiwan can be significantly reduced by using public transport instead of owning a vehicle. The Taipei MRT, buses, and YouBike (public bicycle-sharing) provide affordable options for students to get around. Public transport is well-developed in major cities, making it easy to travel without the need for expensive taxis or private vehicles. Please take a look at the table below:
| Transport Mode | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| MRT and Bus Monthly Pass (Taipei) | TWD 1,280 |
| Single MRT or Bus Ride | TWD 20 – TWD 30 |
| YouBike (Bike-sharing, per 30 mins) | TWD 10 |
| Taxi (per km) | TWD 25 |
Utility and Internet Bills
Monthly utility bills can vary depending on location and usage. The cost of living in Taiwan includes expenses such as electricity, water, and internet bills, which are generally affordable. However, air conditioning usage in summer can cause a rise in electricity bills. Students should consider these costs when planning their monthly budget. Internet services are reliable and inexpensive, making online learning and staying connected with family easier.
| Utility Type | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| Basic Utility Cost (Heating, Electricity, Cooling, Water, and Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | TWD 2,521 |
| Monthly Plan of Mobile Phone (with Calls & 10 GB+ Data) | TWD 747 |
| Internet (60+ Mbps, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | TWD 718 |
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Healthcare and Insurance
Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system, and international students must enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) program after staying for six months. The cost of living in Taiwan includes medical expenses, but with NHI, healthcare services are highly affordable. Students can access quality medical care at subsidized rates, making healthcare expenses manageable.
| Healthcare Expense | Approx. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly NHI Premium | TWD 826 |
| Doctor’s Consultation | TWD 150 – TWD 500 |
| Prescription Medication | TWD 100 – TWD 300 |
Entertainment and Miscellaneous Expenses
Taiwan offers a variety of entertainment options, from cinemas and gyms to outdoor adventures. The cost of living includes entertainment expenses, but students can save money by utilizing discounts. Many universities provide recreational activities at little to no cost. Exploring Taiwan’s natural beauty, such as hiking trails and cultural sites, is an excellent way to enjoy free or low-cost entertainment.
For miscellaneous expenses, a movie ticket costs around TWD 300, while a fitness club membership is approximately TWD 1,128. Brand-name items, such as Levi’s 501 jeans and Nike running shoes, cost around TWD 2,023 and TWD 2,635, respectively. Additionally, a doctor’s visit typically costs about TWD 1,347.
Cost of Living in Taiwan Compared to Other Countries
The cost of living in Taiwan is affordable compared to many countries. It’s higher than in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam but lower than in the US, Singapore, South Korea, Canada, Japan, and Hong Kong. This makes Taiwan a great choice for students and expats. Below is a cost comparison with other countries—have a look!
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living (Excluding rent) | Comparison with Cost of Living in Taiwan |
| Cost of Living in the US | TWD 38114 | Higher than Taiwan |
| Cost of Living in Singapore | TWD 36343 | Higher than Taiwan |
| Cost of Living in the Philippines | TWD 17557 | Lower than Taiwan |
| Cost of Living in South Korea | TWD 33452 | Higher than Taiwan |
| Cost of Living in Canada | TWD 34540 | Higher than Taiwan |
Why Choose Taiwan?
Taiwan is a top choice for students and expats due to its affordable cost of living, high-quality education, excellent healthcare, and safe environment. The country offers a rich culture, modern infrastructure, and a welcoming atmosphere for foreigners. With delicious food, efficient public transport, and strong job opportunities, Taiwan provides a balanced and comfortable lifestyle at a reasonable cost.
Tips for Saving Money in Taiwan
Saving money while living or studying in Taiwan is essential for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle without overspending. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your budget effectively and make the most of your time in Taiwan.
- Get an EasyCard or iPASS for discounted fares on transportation and shopping.
- Use public transportation (MRT & buses) instead of taxis to save money.
- Rent a YouBike for free or low-cost rides in many cities.
- Eat at night markets and small local eateries for cheap, delicious meals.
- Buy fresh produce from traditional markets, especially before closing time.
- Consider shared housing to reduce rental costs.
- Negotiate rent for long-term leases.
- Use heavy appliances during off-peak electricity hours to lower bills.
- Visit free attractions like temples, parks, and hiking trails.
- Use public libraries for free books, Wi-Fi, and study spaces.
- Attend free concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events.
- Use apps like Shopee, PChome, and Ruten for online discounts.
- Withdraw cash only from your bank’s ATMs to avoid fees.
- Check for government discounts on transportation and utilities.
- Use Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) for affordable medical care.
The cost of living in Taiwan is affordable for students compared to Western countries. While Taipei is more expensive, cities like Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Taichung offer cheaper alternatives. By choosing dormitories, public transport, and local food, students can comfortably manage their expenses within a budget of TWD 12,000 – TWD 33,000 per month. With proper financial planning, students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while studying in Taiwan.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the Cost of Living in Taiwan. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Taiwan
The cost of living in Taiwan for students varies depending on their lifestyle and location. On average, a student spends around TWD 24,432 per month on essentials like food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. Rent is separate and can range from TWD 10,793 to TWD 26,000 per month, depending on the city and type of accommodation.
Taiwan’s cost of living is higher than in Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam and the Philippines but lower than in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It offers an affordable yet high-quality lifestyle with excellent infrastructure, public transport, and healthcare services.
Taipei, the capital, has the highest cost of living in Taiwan, especially in terms of rent and dining. Other cities like Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung are significantly more affordable, with lower housing and food expenses.
Yes! Taiwan offers many budget-friendly options for students, including affordable dormitories, night markets, and public transportation. Proper financial planning can help students live comfortably without overspending.
Yes, all international students staying in Taiwan for over six months must enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which provides access to subsidized medical services.
The NHI premium for international students is around TWD 826 per month, allowing them to access affordable healthcare in Taiwan.
A doctor’s visit typically costs between TWD 150 – TWD 500, depending on the hospital and the type of consultation. Prescription medications range from TWD 100 – TWD 300.
The cost of food in Taiwan is affordable, especially if you eat at local night markets or budget-friendly restaurants. A simple meal at a local eatery costs around TWD 150, while a Western-style meal is more expensive.
Yes, owning a car in Taiwan is costly due to fuel, maintenance, parking fees, and insurance. Most students rely on public transport, which is more economical.
Taxis start at TWD 70 for the first 1.25km, then charge TWD 25 per km. They are more expensive than MRTs or buses but still cheaper than taxis in Japan or Singapore.
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