Cost Comparison 2025

TaipeivsLondon

Taiwan
United Kingdom

Overall

💰

+46.2%

Taipei is 46.2%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+112.5%

Housing is 112.5% higher

Dining

🍽️

+72.7%

Restaurants 72.7% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+6.7%

Food shopping 6.7% more

Comparing the cost of living between Taipei, Taiwan and London, United Kingdom reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Taipei is more expensive than London by approximately 46.2%. 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 London by 53%. A one-bedroom apartment in Taipei's city center costs around NT$25,000, while the same in London is approximately £2,500.

Dining out in Taipei offers significant savings compared to London. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NT$120 in Taipei versus £18 in London.

Public transportation in Taipei is more expensive, with monthly passes at NT$1,280 compared to £180 in London.

Purchasing power in London is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Taipei.

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 London, the same lifestyle would cost around £716. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NT$34,580 monthly in Taipei versus £2,505 in London. 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

Item
Taipei, Taiwan
London, United Kingdom

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
NT$25,000
£2,500
1BR Outside Center
NT$15,000
£1,800
3BR City Center
NT$50,000
£5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
NT$120
£18
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
NT$800
£80
Cappuccino
NT$120
£4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
NT$80
£6

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
NT$95
£1
Bread (500g)
NT$50
£2
Eggs (12)
NT$80
£3
Cheese (1kg)
NT$600
£10

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
NT$25
£3
Monthly Pass
NT$1,280
£180
Taxi Start
NT$85
£4
Gasoline (1L)
NT$32
£2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
NT$2,500
£200
Internet (60 Mbps)
NT$900
£35
Mobile Minute
NT$5
£0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Taipei to London, 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 London 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

Taipei

Cost of Living Index65
Rent Index40
Purchasing Power Index70

London

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index85
Purchasing Power Index90

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Taipei more expensive than London?

Yes, Taipei is approximately 46.2% more expensive than London overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Taipei compared to London?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.5x of your London salary when living in Taipei. For example, if you earn $50,000 in London, you'd need about $73,077 in Taipei for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Taipei and London?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 53%, 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?

London offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, London provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Taipei if you prioritize cultural experiences, or London for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Taipei vs London?

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 London, these figures are £2,516 for singles and £6,005 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Taipei and London 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 London to maintain your lifestyle from Taipei

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers