Digital Nomad Life in Taiwan｜City Breakdown

Taipei

As Taiwan’s capital, Taipei is the economic, cultural, and tech hub of the country. It's highly international, making it one of the most English-friendly cities in Taiwan. If it’s your first time here and you enjoy vibrant, fast-paced city life, Taipei should be your go-to.

Taipei boasts the island’s most comprehensive MRT and bus system, covering 21 districts in both Taipei and New Taipei City. Whether you’re heading to busy areas like Ximending, Dihua Street, Tamsui Pier, or enjoying snacks at Raohe or Ningxia Night Markets, public transport will get you there easily.

The city never sleeps—nightlife in Xinyi or the East District, 24/7 convenience stores, and endless food options make Taipei incredibly convenient.

• Transportation: ★★★★★ (Best MRT and bus system in Taiwan)
• Cost of Living: ★☆☆☆☆ (Higher accommodation and food costs)
• English Friendliness: ★★★★☆ (Tourist areas and younger people are communicative)
  
  Taipei – Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall(Photo from iStock.)

Taichung

Often considered Taiwan’s most livable city, Taichung offers a lower cost of living and pleasant weather. Centrally located, it’s also a great base for traveling north or south.

While the MRT is smaller compared to Taipei, Taichung’s bus system is well-organized, making it suitable for both short visits and long-term stays. For the best experience, consider living in West District or Nantun District, which have good amenities, cafes, and coworking spaces.

Explore places like Rainbow Village, Audit Village, Calligraphy Greenway, or Fengjia Night Market. For nightlife, Taichung has unique bars and scenic rooftop restaurants worth checking out.

• Transportation: ★★★☆☆ (Limited MRT, mostly buses and scooters)
• Cost of Living: ★★★☆☆ (Mid-to-low range)
• English Friendliness: ★★★☆☆ (Basic communication possible)
  
  Taichung – Audit Village(Photo from iStock.)

Tainan

Known as Taiwan’s ancient capital, Tainan is full of historical sites, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It also offers warm weather, a slower pace of life, and affordable living, making it an ideal spot for cultural immersion.

Although Tainan lacks an MRT system, downtown buses are frequent and hotspots are relatively close together. For trips outside the city center, renting a car or using taxis is recommended.

Stay in West Central or Anping District, where you can walk or bus to temples, museums, markets, and seaside spots. Don’t miss the Confucius Temple, Tainan Art Museum, Guohua Street, Flower Night Market, Chihkan Tower, or Yuguang Island for a balance of work and leisure.

• Transportation: ★★☆☆☆ (Mainly buses and walking, no MRT)
• Cost of Living: ★★★★☆ (Low living expenses)
• English Friendliness: ★★☆☆☆ (Basic communication possible)
  
  Tainan – Confucius Temple(Photo from iStock.)

Hualien & Taitung

Taiwan’s east coast is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and laid-back lifestyle. However, transportation is limited, so renting a car or taking taxis is advised. Living here allows you to enjoy high quality of life at a lower cost.

Must-see spots include Sanxiantai, Mr. Brown Avenue, and Zhiben Hot Springs in Taitung, or Taroko Gorge, Qingshui Cliffs, and Qixingtan Beach in Hualien—ideal for nature lovers.

In Dulan, Taitung, you’ll find a growing international community of surfers, artists, and expats attracted by the slow life and vibrant Amis Indigenous culture.

If you're looking to escape the city and embrace a more free-spirited lifestyle, Taiwan’s east coast offers boundless inspiration.

• Transportation: ★☆☆☆☆ (Mainly railways, limited buses; car rental recommended)
• Cost of Living: ★★★★★ (Relatively low)
• English Friendliness: ★★☆☆☆ (Basic communication possible)
  
  Hualien – Yuli Red Bridge(Photo from iStock.)
  
  Taitung – Sanxiantai Cross-Sea Footbridge(Photo from iStock.)

Further Reading: Taiwan Digital Nomad Guide | Visa, Currency Exchange, Weather, Internet All in One View

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Authors／Irene Lin、 Digital Nomad Editor Group

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