Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Taiwan offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 90 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, for tourism, business, or visiting relatives for up to 90 days. A valid passport is required, with US citizens needing validity for the duration of stay (not the standard 6 months), while most others require at least 6 months validity from entry date[2][5][6]. No extensions are permitted for visa-free stays, and travelers must show proof of onward travel....
Locals hike here early morning or at night for panoramic city views and to avoid crowds, venturing off main trails to secret viewpoints on weekdays.
Dihua StreetMarkets & Shopping
One of Taipei's oldest streets where locals shop for tea, dried herbs, textiles, and grab strawberry mochi or dried squid from generational shops.
Pier 5 (Dadaocheng Pier Plaza)Social & Cultural
Favorite weekend hangout for locals to grab craft beers and street food at pop-up stalls, enjoying Tamsui River sunsets with skyline views.
National Taiwan University (NTU) CampusParks & Recreation
Locals stroll or bike the palm-lined paths and ponds on weekends for a relaxing escape near Gongguan, away from tourist bustle.
Four Beasts Hiking TrailNatural
Beyond Elephant Mountain, locals tackle this ridge network to Lion, Tiger, and other peaks for uncrowded hikes and superior scenery on weekends.
Little Burma (Huaxin Street)Social & Cultural
Ethnic Burmese-Chinese community spot where locals sip milk tea, eat spicy noodles and flatbreads, or hike to Tudi Gong statue for panoramic views.
Advantages
Taipei
Extensive public transportation network
Abundant parks and green spaces
Affordable cost of living
Excellent food culture
Safe and clean city
Vibrant night markets
Disadvantages
Taipei
Extremely high housing costs
Crowded public transportation
Air quality concerns
Competitive job market
Humid subtropical climate
Taipei works well for expats seeking a high-quality lifestyle at a fraction of Western costs. The city delivers reliable healthcare, efficient public transit, and genuine safety—you can navigate daily life comfortably without perfect Mandarin, though learning it opens doors. Housing remains affordable compared to other major Asian hubs, and the food culture is exceptional. The catch: Taiwan's job market is narrower than regional alternatives, so securing employment beforehand matters unless you're remote-based or teaching English.
The real appeal is the balance. You get modern infrastructure and a thriving expat community without the intensity of Hong Kong or Shanghai, plus genuine friendliness from locals. It's a place where you can actually build a life, not just pass through.
Safety & Security in Taipei
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Good
78
/100
Taiwan Avg
69
Avg
54
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Taipei to Taiwan averages using different marker styles.Compare:
Unlock the full AI Relocation Guide
Explore community integration and social life in Taipei.
Upgrade to Professional