SeattlevsTaipei
Overall
💰-27.8%
Seattle is 27.8%cheaper
Rent
🏠-46.7%
Housing is 46.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-35.3%
Restaurants 35.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-11.8%
Food shopping 11.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Seattle, United States and Taipei, Taiwan reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seattle is more affordable than Taipei by approximately 27.8%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Seattle are higher than in Taipei by 88%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seattle's city center costs around $2,400, while the same in Taipei is approximately NT$25,000.
Dining out in Seattle is notably more expensive compared to Taipei. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $20 in Seattle versus NT$120 in Taipei.
Public transportation in Seattle is more affordable, with monthly passes at $99 compared to NT$1,280 in Taipei.
Purchasing power in Seattle is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Taipei.
Grocery shopping in Seattle is more expensive by approximately 13%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Seattle can expect to spend approximately $669 per month (excluding rent), while in Taipei, the same lifestyle would cost around NT$9,880. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,342 monthly in Seattle versus NT$34,580 in Taipei. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Taipei to Seattle, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Seattle to Taipei requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Seattle
Taipei
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seattle more expensive than Taipei?
No, Seattle is approximately 27.8% cheaper than Taipei. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seattle compared to Taipei?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 78% of your Taipei salary when living in Seattle. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Taipei, you'd need about $39,130 in Seattle for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seattle and Taipei?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 88%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seattle offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seattle provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seattle if you prioritize earning potential, or Taipei for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seattle vs Taipei?
In Seattle, a single person needs approximately $2,569 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,542. In Taipei, these figures are NT$24,880 for singles and NT$64,580 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seattle and Taipei in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Taipei to maintain your lifestyle from Seattle
Calculate Salary Equivalence