Taipei has a full guide, but Taiwan’s other cities offer better weather, lower costs and a slower pace. This page compares six bases.
The costs are ballpark figures for a comfortable month for one person in a furnished apartment, eating out often, with coworking, transport and a social life.
The Bases at a Glance#
| Base | Comfortable month | Best months | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taipei | about $2,300 | October to December, March to April | Capital, community, coworking |
| Taichung | $1,600 to $2,000 | October to April | Best weather, liveable |
| Tainan | $1,400 to $1,800 | October to April | History, food, slow pace |
| Kaohsiung | $1,500 to $1,900 | October to April | Harbour city, value |
| Hualien | $1,300 to $1,700 | October to April | Mountains and sea |
| Yilan | $1,300 to $1,700 | September to December | Hot springs, surf, near Taipei |
Taipei#
The capital has coworking, an international community, metro, night markets, and mountains and hot springs on the edge of town. See the Taipei digital nomad guide.
Taichung#
Taiwan’s second city has the best weather of the big cities, wide streets, parks, cafes and lower costs. It is a growing favourite with long-stayers.
Tainan#
The old capital is full of temples, historic lanes and some of Taiwan’s best food. It is laid-back, cheap and hot.
Kaohsiung#
A southern port city with a revitalised harbour, art districts, a metro and light rail, and sunny winters. It is good value and less crowded than Taipei.
Hualien#
On the east coast, between the Pacific and the mountains, and the gateway to Taroko Gorge. It is quiet, beautiful and affordable, but exposed to typhoons and earthquakes.
Yilan#
A green county an hour from Taipei through the mountains, with hot springs, surf and rice fields. It suits people who want nature with Taipei close by.
Choosing Your Base#
- Start in Taipei for the easiest setup.
- Go south in winter, when Taipei is grey and damp.
- Learn some Mandarin before leaving Taipei.
Where to Base FAQs#
Where do most digital nomads live in Taiwan?
Taipei, followed by Taichung and Kaohsiung.
What is the cheapest place in Taiwan for digital nomads?
Tainan, Hualien and Yilan, at about $1,300 to $1,800 a month.
Is Taichung good for digital nomads?
Yes. It has the best weather of Taiwan’s big cities, lower costs than Taipei and a growing community.