Not many OFWs get to choose where they’ll live in Taiwan—but if you’re lucky enough to have that choice, these cities stand out. Based on what many OFWs value most—job stability, affordable living, a strong Filipino community, and daily comfort—this shortlist can help you find the best fit.
New Taipei City
Why it works: Surrounding the capital, New Taipei offers lower rent and a quieter pace, while keeping you close to the heart of Taiwan’s tech, education, and government centers. Filipino communities thrive in areas like Banqiao and Tamsui, where you’ll find karaoke nights, Pinoy groceries, and active church gatherings.
- Cost snapshot: Avg. monthly living ≈ US $1,073; rent ≈ US $481
- Perks: MRT and HSR links, riverside parks, weekend markets
- Watch-out: Rush hour traffic along major roads
Taipei City
Why it works: The capital city offers high wages and English-speaking work environments, especially in teaching, hospitality, and BPOs. Many first-time OFWs land ESL jobs here before exploring other paths.
- Cost snapshot: Avg. monthly living ≈ US $1,181
- Perks: Top-tier MRT, international schools, active expat meetups
- Watch-out: High rent and nightlife can stretch your budget
Taoyuan
Why it works: As Taiwan’s logistics and industry hub, Taoyuan offers steady jobs in manufacturing, warehouses, and airport-linked services. Great for OFWs who prefer practical living and easy access to flights home.
- Cost snapshot: Avg. monthly living ≈ US $875
- Perks: Near the airport, suburban housing, expanding malls
- Watch-out: Limited MRT coverage (reliable bus routes fill the gap)
Kaohsiung
Why it works: Taiwan’s main port city is great for OFWs in heavy industry, shipbuilding, or petrochemicals. The lifestyle is relaxed and the community is tight-knit—especially around Lingya and Zuoying.
- Cost snapshot: Avg. monthly living ≈ US $956
- Perks: Harbor views, bike lanes, vibrant night markets
- Watch-out: Summer heat and humidity can be intense
Taichung
Why it works: Centrally located and home to Taiwan’s machinery and creative industries, Taichung blends affordable living with a mild climate and growing work opportunities for teachers, creatives, and freelancers.
- Cost snapshot: Avg. monthly living ≈ US $894
- Perks: Mild weather, art districts, affordable food
- Watch-out: Public transport not as developed as Taipei
Honorable Mentions
- Hsinchu – Taiwan’s “Silicon Valley” with top IT salaries
- Tainan – Cultural gem with the lowest cost of living
- Yilan – Lush landscapes for those in agritourism or nature-based hospitality
What Factors Matter Most to OFWs?
This list wasn’t chosen at random. Each of these cities checked the boxes that many Filipino migrant workers—myself included—care about most when it comes to building a stable, meaningful life abroad.
Job Market Fit
Why it matters: For most OFWs, work isn’t just about earning—it’s about securing a future for our families back home. That’s why cities with solid demand for caregivers, factory workers, teachers, and logistics staff rank high. Shift premiums and overtime options also help you stretch every hour into more savings.
When I first applied, I looked for places where I could land a job fast but also feel secure about contract renewals. Taoyuan gave me both.
Cost of Living & Housing
Why it matters: Many of us send a large portion of our salary back to the Philippines. That makes affordable rent and grocery costs a non-negotiable. Cities like Taichung or New Taipei offer just enough comfort to live well—without sacrificing your savings goals.
My priority has always been paying off our family’s debt while saving for my child’s schooling. Living outside Taipei made that realistic.
Filipino Community
Why it matters: Working abroad is hard—but being surrounded by kababayans makes it easier. From Sunday masses to group chats about secondhand rice cookers, OFW communities help with the homesickness and the everyday hustle.
I remember my first week in Kaohsiung—I got lost. A fellow Filipino not only helped me find my dorm, she brought me to a church group that became my support system.
Transport & Connectivity
Why it matters: When your days are long, you don’t want transport to be a daily struggle. Easy access to buses, MRT, or HSR means less stress commuting—and more time to rest or catch up with loved ones. Proximity to airports also helps with emergency trips or vacations home.
I chose New Taipei over central Taipei partly because of the direct bus line to my factory—saved me two hours a day.
English-Friendly Services
Why it matters: Let’s face it—navigating hospitals, schools, or local government offices in Chinese can be overwhelming. Cities with English-speaking services reduce that stress, especially if you’re raising kids or dealing with medical issues.
I once had to rush my co-worker to the ER. The fact that the nurse spoke English made all the difference in getting her the help she needed quickly.
Quality of Life
Why it matters: OFWs sacrifice a lot—but that doesn’t mean life abroad should feel lifeless. Clean air, quiet parks, cheap eats, and Sunday markets help restore the energy we pour into our jobs. Some OFWs also look for weather that reminds them of home or helps with existing health issues.
I’m prone to migraines, so Taichung’s milder climate has been a big help. Plus, biking to the night market after work clears my head.
Education & Healthcare Access
Why it matters: If you’re staying long-term or planning to bring your family, this becomes a top concern. International or bilingual schools, plus quality hospitals, are essentials—not luxuries.
I’ve seen fellow OFWs struggle to get proper care for their kids. That’s why I chose to settle in Taoyuan, where walk-in clinics and English-speaking pediatricians are available.
Visa Pathways & Local Support
Why it matters: Smooth processing of work permits, resident IDs, or household registration means less time spent on paperwork—and fewer risks of losing your legal status. Some cities also have programs that ease the burden for caregivers and long-term residents.
Renewing my ARC in Kaohsiung was surprisingly fast. The staff even gave me info on free Chinese classes for OFWs.
What You Can Do Next
- Match your industry: Whether you’re into tech, teaching, caregiving, or manufacturing, scout local job boards like 1111.com.tw or check official DMW listings.
- Join Pinoy groups: Communities like “Kabayan sa Taipei” on Facebook can help you find roommates, discover events, and feel at home faster.
- Consider your family: If relocating with kids, research English-medium school zones in Taoyuan or Taipei.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to live in Taiwan isn’t always up to you—but when you do get the chance, even a little research can go a long way. The best cities for OFWs combine fair pay, livable costs, good healthcare, and a sense of community. Whether you’re a first-time worker or looking to switch jobs, understanding each city’s strengths can help you settle in faster and thrive longer. Taiwan’s not just a workplace—it can also be a second home.