A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Osaka (Japan) and Taipei (Taiwan). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.
| Category | Osaka | Taipei |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Japan | Taiwan |
| Currency | JPY (¥) | TWD (NT$) |
| 1BR Rent Range | ¥85,000 - ¥140,000 | NT$17,000 - NT$40,000Cheaper |
| 2BR Rent Range | ¥120,000 - ¥200,000 | NT$26,000 - NT$62,000Cheaper |
| Groceries / mo | ¥35,000 | NT$8,000Cheaper |
| Transport Pass / mo | ¥9,000 | NT$1,280Cheaper |
| Dining Out / mo | ¥12,000 | NT$5,000Cheaper |
| English Level | 2/5 (Basic) | 3/5 (Moderate)Cheaper |
| Neighborhoods Tracked | 6 | 4 |
| Healthcare System | Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) | National Health Insurance (NHI) |
Overall, Taipei tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use different currencies, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.
6 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Japan
View Osaka details4 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Taiwan
View Taipei detailsEnter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Osaka and Taipei.
Open the comparison calculatorBased on our data, Taipei is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.
In Osaka, 1-bedroom rents range from ¥85,000 to ¥140,000 per month across 6 neighborhoods. In Taipei, 1-bedroom rents range from NT$17,000 to NT$40,000 per month across 4 neighborhoods.
A monthly public transport pass costs ¥9,000 in Osaka and NT$1,280 in Taipei. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.
Osaka has an English proficiency rating of 2/5 (Basic) and Taipei rates 3/5 (Moderate). Osaka uses Public (NHI) + Employer Insurance (Shakai Hoken) healthcare, while Taipei uses National Health Insurance (NHI). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.