🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Taipei, Taiwan, my home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s one of the most underrated destinations for remote workers. With a Nomad Score of 85/100, Taipei offers an incredible blend of culture, food, nightlife, and history that’s hard to find elsewhere. The city has a unique energy that’s both vibrant and laid-back, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads looking to balance work and play. From the bustling streets of Ximending to the tranquil parks of Daan, Taipei has something for everyone. As a Taipei digital nomad, you’ll quickly discover that the city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live and work in Taipei, there are several options that stand out for digital nomads. Here are three of my favorite areas:
- Ximending: Known as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is a trendy neighborhood that’s perfect for digital nomads who love to be in the heart of the action. With its vibrant nightlife, eclectic shops, and diverse restaurants, Ximending is an ideal spot for those who want to experience the best of Taipei’s culture.
- Daan: Located in the heart of Taipei, Daan is a popular neighborhood that offers a mix of upscale living, trendy cafes, and easy access to public transportation. Daan is a great spot for digital nomads who want to be close to the city’s main attractions while still enjoying a relatively quiet and peaceful living environment.
- Gongguan: This charming neighborhood is located near the prestigious National Taiwan University and is a hub for students, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Gongguan offers a relaxed atmosphere, affordable living options, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes that cater to all tastes and budgets.
Cost of Living Breakdown
One of the biggest advantages of living in Taipei as a digital nomad is the relatively low cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood like Ximending or Daan can cost around NT$18,000-25,000 (USD $600-850) per month. In Gongguan, you can find more affordable options for around NT$12,000-18,000 (USD $400-600) per month.
- Food: Eating out in Taipei is incredibly affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant or street food stall costing around NT$100-200 (USD $3-6). Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a week’s worth of basic items costing around NT$1,000-1,500 (USD $33-50).
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs around NT$1,300 (USD $43), while a single ride on the MRT costs NT$20-65 (USD $0.65-2.15).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Taipei typically cost around NT$5,000-10,000 (USD $167-333) per month for a hot desk, while private offices can cost upwards of NT$20,000 (USD $667) per month.
Internet & Coworking
Taipei has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with fast and reliable connections available throughout the city. The average internet speed in Taipei is around 47 Mbps, making it easy to stay connected and productive. Some popular coworking spaces in Taipei include:
- The Hive: Located in the heart of Ximending, The Hive offers a range of coworking options, including hot desks and private offices.
- Spark Labs: With several locations throughout the city, Spark Labs provides a collaborative and innovative workspace for entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
- FutureWard: This trendy coworking space in Daan offers a unique and inspiring environment, complete with a rooftop garden and stunning city views.
Taipei has a thriving digital nomad community, with numerous meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Some popular groups and events include:
- Taipei Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great resource for connecting with other digital nomads and finding out about upcoming events.
- Nomad List Taipei: This meetup group organizes regular events and gatherings for digital nomads, including coworking sessions, social events, and workshops.
- Taipei Expats: While not exclusively for digital nomads, this group is a great resource for anyone living and working in Taipei, with a wide range of events and activities taking place throughout the year.
Culture & Lifestyle
Taipei is a city that seamlessly blends traditional and modern culture, offering a unique and exciting lifestyle for digital nomads. From the famous night markets to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, there’s always something to explore and discover. The food scene in Taipei is particularly notable, with a wide range of delicious and affordable options available, from traditional Taiwanese cuisine to modern fusion restaurants. As a digital nomad in Taipei, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends, whether through language exchange events, social gatherings, or volunteer work.
As a digital nomad, you’ll typically enter Taiwan on a tourist visa, which is valid for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on your nationality. While there isn’t a specific digital nomad visa available in Taiwan, the government has introduced a range of initiatives to support remote workers, including the “Taiwan Gold Card” scheme, which offers a range of benefits and incentives for foreign talent.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few insider tips to help you navigate life in Taipei as a digital nomad:
- Get a local SIM card: A prepaid SIM card from a provider like Chunghwa Telecom or Taiwan Mobile can cost as little as NT$300 (USD $10) and provides affordable data and voice services.
- Learn some Mandarin: While many Taiwanese speak some English, learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin can go a long way in enhancing your experience and making everyday interactions easier.
- Be prepared for the weather: Taipei has a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
- Use public transportation: Taipei’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable, with a comprehensive network of buses and MRT lines covering the entire city.
