TaipeivsBeijing
Overall
💰-4.6%
Taipei is 4.6%cheaper
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️-23.6%
Restaurants 23.6% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-13.3%
Food shopping 13.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Taipei, Taiwan and Beijing, China reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Taipei is more affordable than Beijing by approximately 4.6%. 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 Taipei are lower than in Beijing by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Taipei's city center costs around NT$25,000, while the same in Beijing is approximately CN¥7,500.
Dining out in Taipei is notably more expensive compared to Beijing. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NT$120 in Taipei versus CN¥30 in Beijing.
Public transportation in Taipei is more expensive, with monthly passes at NT$1,280 compared to CN¥200 in Beijing.
Grocery shopping in Taipei is more expensive by approximately 15%. 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 Taipei can expect to spend approximately NT$9,880 per month (excluding rent), while in Beijing, the same lifestyle would cost around CN¥1,746. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NT$34,580 monthly in Taipei versus CN¥6,111 in Beijing. 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 Beijing to Taipei, 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 Taipei to Beijing 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
Taipei
Beijing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Taipei more expensive than Beijing?
The cost of living in Taipei and Beijing is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Taipei compared to Beijing?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 96% of your Beijing salary when living in Taipei. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Beijing, you'd need about $47,794 in Taipei for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Taipei and Beijing?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 31%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Taipei offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Taipei provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Taipei if you prioritize earning potential, or Beijing for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Taipei vs Beijing?
In Taipei, a single person needs approximately NT$24,880 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NT$64,580. In Beijing, these figures are CN¥5,746 for singles and CN¥15,111 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Taipei and Beijing in 2025 shows moderate 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Beijing to maintain your lifestyle from Taipei
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