New Taipei City, Taiwan

New Taipei City wraps around Taipei proper like a ring of mountains, rivers, and dense urban districts, sitting just 25 m above sea level in a subtropical climate that brings hot, humid summers and mild, damp winters. With a population of 4 million, it is one of the largest cities in Taiwan by headcount, yet it often feels more relaxed and affordable than its famous neighbor. Expats tend to settle in Banqiao, Xindian, and Tamsui, three neighborhoods that offer different flavors of daily life: Banqiao for its transport links and shopping, Xindian for its riverside greenery and quieter streets, and Tamsui for its coastal sunsets and slower pace. The timezone is Asia/Taipei, and the nearest major airport is TPE, about 43 km away, which keeps international travel within easy reach.

Rent is where New Taipei City stands out. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center runs $1,012/mo, while the same outside the center drops to $483/mo. Three-bedroom units average $1,554/mo in the center and $957/mo outside it, giving families and share-house groups real breathing room. Beyond rent, a single adult can expect monthly costs of $853/mo excluding rent, and a family of four around $3,188/mo excluding rent. Utilities come to $87/mo, internet is $27/mo, and a mobile phone plan is $17/mo. A monthly public transport pass costs $38/mo, a gym membership is $41/mo, an inexpensive restaurant meal is $5 per person, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $47, and a cappuccino is $3. The average monthly net salary locally is $1,755/mo, and the cost of living index sits at 53/100 against New York City as 100. Budget, mid-range, and comfortable tiers for a single adult, rent included, land at $690/mo, $985/mo, and $1,595/mo respectively.

Safety and healthcare are two of the strongest selling points. The safety index is 82/100, while the crime index is just 18/100, where lower is safer. Healthcare quality is rated excellent, which matters for long-term residents and families alike. Air quality has an index of 52, lower being better, and internet speeds average 150 Mbps, fast enough for remote work, streaming, and video calls. The overall expat score is 85/100, with digital nomad and FIRE scores both at 85/100 and 83/100, and a retiree score of 80/100. English proficiency is common in tourist areas, and the expat community is large and active, so newcomers can find social groups, meetups, and practical help without much trouble.

For longer stays, the Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa (Gold Card) requires a minimum monthly income of $4,977/mo. Getting there means flying into TPE, 43 km from the city. New Taipei City suits remote workers, early retirees, and budget-conscious expats who want big-city amenities without big-city rent. It also works well for families who need space, good healthcare, and a safe environment, and for digital nomads who want a subtropical base with strong internet and a well-organized expat scene. Whether you choose Banqiao, Xindian, or Tamsui, the numbers make a compelling case for making this ring city your home base.