Pros & Cons of Living in Taichung

Thinking about to Taichung? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Taichung.

Located on the western coast of Taiwan, Taichung is the country's second-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, bustling night markets, and stunning natural beauty. While it may not be as internationally recognized as Taipei, Taichung offers a unique blend of urban and rural living that attracts both locals and expats alike. However, like any city, living in Taichung comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let's delve into the pros and cons of residing in this dynamic city.

Pros of Living in Taichung

One of the most significant advantages of living in Taichung is the cost of living. Compared to Taipei, Taichung is considerably more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Rent, groceries, dining out, and transportation costs are all lower here. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around 15,000 TWD per month, which is almost half the price of a similar apartment in Taipei.

Another pro of living in Taichung is the city's rich cultural scene. Taichung is home to the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most prominent art museums in Taiwan. The city also hosts the annual Taichung Jazz Festival, which attracts musicians and music lovers from around the world. Additionally, Taichung's historic district offers a glimpse into Taiwan's past, with its well-preserved Japanese-era architecture.

Taichung's location is another advantage. The city is situated in the middle of Taiwan, making it a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island. The Sun Moon Lake, Alishan National Scenic Area, and the stunning east coast are all within a few hours' drive. Moreover, Taichung's climate is more temperate than Taipei's, with less rainfall and more sunny days.

Finally, Taichung is a food lover's paradise. The city is famous for its night markets, such as the Fengjia Night Market, which offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable street food. Taichung is also the birthplace of bubble tea, a popular drink that has gained international fame.

For those interested in volunteering, there are several organizations in Taichung that welcome foreign volunteers. The Taichung City Volunteer Association, for example, offers opportunities to help with environmental conservation, education, and community development projects.

Cons of Living in Taichung, Taiwan

Despite its many advantages, living in Taichung also has its downsides. One of the main cons is the language barrier. While English is taught in schools, it's not widely spoken in Taichung, especially among the older generation. This can make everyday tasks like shopping or asking for directions challenging for those who don't speak Mandarin.

Another disadvantage of living in Taichung is the air quality. Like many other cities in Taiwan, Taichung struggles with air pollution, especially during the winter months when the northeast monsoon carries industrial pollutants from China. This can lead to health issues, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

While Taichung's public transportation system is improving, it still lags behind Taipei's. The city's bus system can be confusing for newcomers, and while a metro system is being built, it's not yet operational. This means that having a scooter or a car can be almost essential for getting around, which can be a significant expense and responsibility.

Lastly, while Taichung has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment, it doesn't have the same international vibe as Taipei. There are fewer foreign residents, and the city's nightlife and entertainment options are more limited. This can make Taichung feel a bit provincial and less exciting for some people.

In conclusion, Taichung is a city of contrasts, offering a mix of urban and rural living, rich cultural experiences, and affordable living costs. However, it also presents challenges such as language barriers, air pollution, and a less developed public transportation system. Ultimately, whether Taichung is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and lifestyle.

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Cigna Global Health

With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
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