Starting a new chapter in Taiwan is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. And nothing grounds that feeling more than finding the right place to live. For many first-time OFWs, affordable housing is the difference between just surviving and truly thriving.
If you’re wondering where to begin, how much to budget, and what options are actually available to you, keep on reading. Let’s walk through the best ways to find affordable housing in Taiwan in 2025, without compromising comfort or safety.
1. Look for Employer-Provided Housing (It’s More Common Than You Think)
Best For: Factory workers, caregivers, and hospital staff
Many Taiwanese employers—especially in manufacturing and healthcare—provide free or subsidized dormitory-style housing for OFWs. These are often located near workplaces and may include shared facilities like kitchens, laundry, and bathrooms.
Pros:
- Saves you NT$6,000–NT$12,000/month in rent
- No need to deal with local landlords or paperwork
- You’ll likely live with fellow OFWs
Tip: Confirm with your agency or employer ahead of time if this benefit is included in your contract.
2. Consider Shared Housing With Fellow OFWs
Best For: Those who want a little more privacy or independence
Shared apartments are a popular option in cities like Taichung, Zhongli, and Banqiao. Monthly rent can drop to NT$4,000–NT$8,000 per person depending on the location and number of tenants.
Try searching on these sites:
Tip: Use Facebook groups like “Filipino OFWs in Taiwan” to find housemates or get leads on sublets.
3. Reach Out to the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Taichung
Best For: Those facing unfair rent practices or housing difficulties
The MWO-Taichung supports OFWs with workplace and housing issues. They can help mediate with landlords, recommend safe locations, or point you to shelter in emergencies.
Contact Info: MWO-Taichung Facebook Page
4. Explore Budget Homestays for Short-Term Needs
Best For: First few weeks in Taiwan
If you’re still settling in or job hunting, short-term homestays can offer a soft landing. One popular spot is Malabary Homestay, which caters to Filipino guests and charges around NT$500–800 per night.
Look for listings on Agoda or local homestay directories using “便宜住宿 台灣 + [city name]” as search terms.
5. Use Trusted Local Real Estate Websites
Best For: OFWs staying long-term who want to rent directly
While some sites are only in Mandarin, using tools like Google Translate or asking a bilingual friend can help you navigate listings. Look for:
Search Tips:
- Use keywords like “分租套房” (shared apartment) or “小套房” (studio unit)
- Filter by price (“租金”) and city (“城市”)
Popular Neighborhoods Among OFWs
Here are areas worth checking out based on price, location, and Pinoy presence:
Taipei
- Zhongzheng / Shilin – Higher prices, but near embassies and parks
- Wanhua – Older district, more budget-friendly
New Taipei City
- Zhonghe / Yonghe – Strong Filipino community, access to MRT
- Banqiao – More affordable than Taipei but still urban
Taoyuan
- Zhongli – Industrial hub, many factory workers live here
- Nankan – Quieter and closer to the airport
Taichung
- Xitun – Near job zones and shopping malls
- Fengyuan – Peaceful, low rent, and popular with families
Average Rent Comparison by City (Per Month)
| City | Shared Housing | Studio Apartment |
| Taipei | NT$8,000–12,000 | NT$15,000–25,000 |
| New Taipei City | NT$6,000–10,000 | NT$12,000–20,000 |
| Taoyuan | NT$5,000–9,000 | NT$10,000–16,000 |
| Taichung | NT$4,000–8,000 | NT$8,000–14,000 |
Note: Prices vary depending on age of unit, furnishings, and proximity to transport.
Final Tips Before You Sign That Lease
- ✅ Visit the unit first, if possible, or ask for a video walkthrough
- ✅ Check who pays utilities (some landlords include it, some don’t)
- ✅ Get receipts and keep a digital copy of your contract
- ❌ Avoid handing over cash without documentation
If something feels too good to be true—it probably is.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How much should I budget for housing in Taiwan as an OFW?
If your employer provides housing, you can spend almost nothing on rent. But if not, budget at least NT$6,000–10,000/month for shared housing or a small apartment in non-Taipei areas. In Taipei, expect higher rent starting at NT$12,000.
- Can I find housing in Taiwan even if I don’t speak Mandarin?
Yes. While it’s easier with basic Mandarin, many OFWs find housing through Facebook groups, Filipino communities, or English-friendly websites like 591.com (use Google Translate). Some landlords are used to renting to foreign workers.
- Are there scams I should watch out for when renting in Taiwan?
Yes. Be cautious of:
- Listings with no photos
- Landlords asking for full payment upfront without paperwork
- Offers that sound too cheap for the location
Always sign a written contract and ask for receipts.
- How long does it take to find a place to stay?
If you’re already in Taiwan and not relying on employer housing, it can take 1–2 weeks to find a good unit, especially in high-demand areas. Short-term homestays can give you time to search without pressure.
Final Thoughts
Finding affordable housing in Taiwan as an OFW isn’t just about saving money—it’s about starting fresh with a sense of peace and safety. Whether you’re settling in Taipei’s fast-paced neighborhoods or the quieter lanes of Taichung, a place to call home can make all the difference in your journey.
Start by leaning on your networks, using trusted sites, and asking questions. You don’t have to get it perfect on the first try—you just need to find a place where you can breathe, rest, and dream after a long day at work.
And when that happens? You’ll realize: you didn’t just find a room.
You built your own space in a new world.