Cost of Living in Kaohsiung

Cost Guide for Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Kaohsiung, located in southern Taiwan, is a vibrant city known for its bustling night markets, stunning temples, and modern architecture. For digital nomads or expats looking to live and work in Kaohsiung, here is a comprehensive cost guide to help you budget and plan your stay in this dynamic city.

Rent Ranges by Neighbourhood

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City Centre (e.g. Lingya District)

In the heart of Kaohsiung, expect to pay around TWD 15,000 to TWD 25,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. -

Near MRT Stations (e.g. Zuoying or Sizihwan)

Rent can range from TWD 10,000 to TWD 20,000 per month for a similar size apartment.

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Suburban Areas (e.g. Fengshan or Gangshan)

You may find more affordable options in these areas, with rents starting from TWD 8,000 per month.

Coworking Costs

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InCube8

A popular coworking space in Kaohsiung, offers hot desks starting at TWD 300 per day or TWD 4,500 per month for a dedicated desk.

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WeWork

Another well-known option with various locations in the city, offers hot desks from TWD 400 per day or TWD 7,000 per month for a dedicated desk.

SIM/Data Plans

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Chunghwa Telecom

One of the leading providers in Taiwan, offers SIM cards with data plans starting from TWD 300 per month for 3GB of data.

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Taiwan Mobile

Offers similar plans starting from TWD 250 per month for 2GB of data.

Food Costs

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Local Street Food

Enjoy cheap eats at the many street food stalls for as little as TWD 50 per meal.

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Restaurants

Dining out at mid-range restaurants can cost around TWD 200 to TWD 500 per meal.

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Supermarkets

Buying groceries for home-cooked meals can range from TWD 1,500 to TWD 3,000 per month, depending on your diet.

Transport Passes

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Kaohsiung Metro

A day pass for unlimited metro rides costs TWD 150, while a monthly pass can be purchased for around TWD 1,500.

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Buses

Single bus rides start at TWD 12, with discounts available for multiple trips.

Gym Memberships

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Fitness Factory

Offers memberships starting from TWD 1,000 per month.

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Anytime Fitness

Another popular chain with branches in Kaohsiung, offers memberships starting from TWD 1,200 per month.

Internet Speeds

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Taiwan Broadband

Offers high-speed fibre internet with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps, with prices starting from TWD 700 per month.

Safety Notes

- Kaohsiung is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions to safeguard your belongings and personal safety.

Neighbourhood Comparison

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Lingya District

The city centre with easy access to amenities, restaurants, and coworking spaces.

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Zuoying

Close to the high-speed rail station with a mix of residential and commercial areas.

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Fengshan

A quieter suburban area with more affordable housing options.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

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Rent

TWD 8,000 to TWD 25,000 -

Coworking

TWD 4,500 to TWD 7,000 -

SIM/Data

TWD 250 to TWD 300 -

Food

TWD 1,500 to TWD 3,000 -

Transport

TWD 1,500 -

Gym

TWD 1,000 to TWD 1,200 -

Internet

TWD 700

Conclusion

Kaohsiung offers a mix of urban convenience, cultural attractions, and affordable living costs, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads and expats. By understanding the cost breakdown and neighbourhood options provided in this guide, you can better plan your budget and enjoy your stay in this dynamic city in southern Taiwan.