Popular Rental Areas for Expats in Taiwan
Taiwan, known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and thriving economy, has several popular rental areas that attract expats. These areas offer a blend of convenience, cultural experiences, and amenities. Here are examples of such areas and the reasons behind their popularity:
Taipei City
Why it’s Popular:
- Urban Hub: Taipei City is the capital and largest city in Taiwan, offering a bustling urban environment with numerous job opportunities, especially in the technology and finance sectors.
- Cultural Attractions: Expats can explore a wide range of cultural attractions, including historic temples, night markets, and modern art galleries.
- International Schools: The city has a variety of international schools, making it an attractive choice for expat families.
Taichung
Why it’s Popular:
- Central Location: Taichung is strategically located in the central part of Taiwan, providing easy access to other major cities and scenic destinations on the island.
- Quality of Life: The city offers a high quality of life with a more relaxed pace compared to Taipei, making it appealing to those seeking a balance between work and leisure.
- Park Spaces: Taichung boasts beautiful parks and green spaces, offering residents a chance to enjoy the outdoors.
Kaohsiung
Why it’s Popular:
- Port City: Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port city and an economic powerhouse, providing job opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, and trade.
- Coastal Living: The city is known for its proximity to the coast, offering expats a chance to enjoy beachside living and water activities.
- Cultural Scene: Kaohsiung has a thriving arts and music scene, with cultural events and festivals held throughout the year.
Taoyuan
Why it’s Popular:
- International Airport: Taoyuan is home to Taiwan’s main international airport, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, making it a convenient choice for expats who frequently travel.
- Accessible to Taipei: The city’s proximity to Taipei allows residents to enjoy a quieter suburban lifestyle while having easy access to the capital.
- Job Opportunities: Taoyuan’s industrial zones provide employment opportunities in manufacturing and technology sectors.
Main Websites for Properties to Rent in Taiwan
Expats searching for rental properties in Taiwan have access to various online platforms and real estate websites. These websites offer comprehensive listings and user-friendly search features:
591 is one of the largest and most popular real estate websites in Taiwan, offering a wide range of rental listings, including apartments, houses, and commercial properties.
591 Rent is a specialized section of 591 dedicated to rental properties, making it convenient for expats searching for accommodation in Taiwan.
While primarily a job search website, 104.com.tw also features rental listings, particularly for apartments in various regions of Taiwan.
Airbnb is a global platform that includes a wide range of short-term and long-term rental options, making it suitable for expats looking for temporary housing in Taiwan.
Websites Aimed at Expats
Expats moving to Taiwan can also benefit from websites and forums tailored to their needs, offering valuable information and resources:
Taiwan News is an English-language news source that provides information on various aspects of life in Taiwan, including housing and lifestyle.
Forumosa is an expat forum for Taiwan, where expats share information and discuss topics related to living in the country, including housing options.
Main Letting Agencies in Taiwan
Letting agencies in Taiwan play a crucial role in helping expats find suitable rental properties. Here are some of the main letting agencies in the country:
Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) is a well-known global real estate services firm with a presence in Taiwan, offering a range of real estate solutions, including property rentals.
Savills is another international real estate agency with offices in Taiwan, providing services for both residential and commercial property rentals.
Colliers International is a global real estate services company with a presence in Taiwan, assisting expats in finding suitable rental properties.
Chinatrust Real Estate is a local real estate agency in Taiwan, offering a variety of property rental options and services.
Other Ways to Find Property Rentals in Taiwan
Expats in Taiwan can explore alternative methods for finding property rentals, especially if they are looking for unique or budget-friendly options:
Local Realtors: Sometimes, local realtors and agents may have listings that are not available on larger websites.
Word of Mouth: Asking for recommendations and seeking referrals from colleagues, friends, or other expats can lead to hidden rental opportunities.
Local Newspapers and Community Boards: In some cases, rental listings can still be found in local newspapers or on community bulletin boards in popular expat areas.
Real Estate Expos and Housing Fairs: Attending real estate expos and housing fairs in Taiwan can provide expats with valuable insights into various rental options and allow them to meet landlords directly.
Expats moving to Taiwan can take advantage of the diverse rental areas and housing options available in the country. Whether you prefer the bustling city life of Taipei, the coastal charm of Kaohsiung, or the suburban tranquility of Taoyuan, Taiwan offers a range of living experiences to suit different preferences.