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What it's actually like here
Looking for an affordable base in Asia? This southern Taiwanese hub is a genuine budget champion. You can snag a 1-bedroom apartment for as little as $300-$450 USD, and even a sit-down meal runs just $12. Groceries are a steal at around $180 a month too! It’s perfect for digital nomads prioritizing cost savings and a relaxed pace. Internet speeds are excellent at 140 Mbps, ideal for remote work, and the city boasts a high safety index (80). English proficiency is moderate, meaning you'll get by, but learning some Mandarin helps. While there are 12 coworking spaces, the nomad community is smaller, so don't expect a bustling digital nomad scene every night. One honest caveat? The air quality index at 65 isn't ideal, so if pristine air is a top priority, you might want to consider other options. But for fantastic value and a comfortable, safe lifestyle, this city is a strong contender.
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Who this suits
Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Kaohsiung.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Kaohsiung as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Kaohsiung averages around $450 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 38 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Kaohsiung safe for digital nomads?+
Kaohsiung scores 80/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.
How fast is the internet in Kaohsiung?+
Headline average internet speed in Kaohsiung is around 140 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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