Taiwan – Finding Property to Rent

Where do most expats rent in Taiwan, and which areas are most popular?

Taiwan’s capital, Taipei, draws the largest share of expatriate residents. Rents there tend to be higher than elsewhere on the island, though costs differ considerably from one neighbourhood to the next. Apartments are the dominant housing type; standalone houses are scarce in high-density urban centres like Taipei and Kaohsiung, though suburban fringes of Taiwanese cities do offer some detached housing options.

Da’an and Xinyi rank among Taipei’s most expensive districts. Da’an is characterised by upscale apartments and a cosmopolitan, academic atmosphere that appeals to professionals and academics. Xinyi functions as the city’s financial and commercial hub, home to major corporations and luxury hotels. In these central districts — including Zhongzheng — monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment can range from NT$20,000 to NT$45,000 or more.

Tianmu, a greener district to the north of the city centre, is a long-standing favourite among expatriates who have put down deeper roots in Taiwan. A number of embassies and representative offices are based there, lending the neighbourhood a distinctly international character, and Zhongshan Road is lined with an unusually generous number of parks. The nearby Songshan district, situated just north of Zhongxiao Road, is another expat-friendly option: it combines restaurants, local parks, and older residential buildings in a setting that, while not cheap, is widely regarded as an excellent environment for families.

Zhongshan and Songshan districts attract residents with their blend of contemporary developments and traditional streetscapes. Both areas are celebrated for their culinary offerings and night markets, giving newcomers an immediate sense of authentic Taiwanese urban life. For those seeking a more spacious and less hectic environment, outer districts such as Beitou and Shilin provide quieter surroundings at lower price points.

Banqiao, situated in New Taipei City, is well served by the MRT and offers noticeably lower rents than central Taipei. Neighbourhoods like Banqiao and Xindian allow residents to cut accommodation costs significantly while remaining within easy reach of the capital by public transport. Outside Taipei, cities like Taichung and Kaohsiung offer a far more affordable rental landscape. In Kaohsiung — Taiwan’s third-largest city — one-bedroom apartments in popular expat areas such as Zuoying and Lingya typically carry monthly rents of NT$12,000 to NT$25,000.

A practical guideline for all newcomers is to prioritise living near an MRT line. Stations in Taipei are typically surrounded by convenience stores, medical clinics, shops, and night markets, making daily errands straightforward. Taoyuan, which hosts Taiwan’s principal international airport, is also worth considering for expats who travel frequently; its suburban character appeals to those wanting a calmer pace of life while maintaining swift access to Taipei.

What are the main property rental websites in Taiwan?

591.com.tw is Taiwan’s most widely used rental portal, offering extensive listings with detailed filters to help refine searches by location, budget, and property type. Content is predominantly in Mandarin, but the platform’s photographs and browser translation tools make it accessible to non-Mandarin speakers. It covers the full spectrum of rental options — apartments, individual rooms, and shared housing — across the entire country, and is used by both private landlords and professional agencies. Access it directly at 591.com.tw.

Taiwan Housing (taiwanhousing.tw) positions itself as the first real estate platform in Taiwan built specifically for international residents, providing English-friendly listings, verified agents, and a streamlined interface designed to remove language barriers. It lists both rental properties and homes for sale, and aims to connect expatriates with trustworthy landlords. Visit taiwanhousing.tw.

PopRooms links tenants directly with landlords and focuses on furnished rooms and apartments. It offers several tenant-friendly features including English-language lease agreements, complimentary coffee, and weekly housekeeping — making it a particularly convenient choice for those arriving without Mandarin proficiency. Visit pop-rooms.com.

Tealit.com serves the expatriate community in Taiwan with rental listings that include location details, pricing, and amenity information, alongside job postings and language exchange opportunities — making it a versatile resource for newly arrived expats. Visit tealit.com.

UR House Realty’s website at urhouse.com.tw is worth bookmarking. Listings can be filtered by preferred price range, bedroom count, and district, and each entry includes details such as the monthly rent, management fee, floor plan, building floor level, lift availability, and pet policy.

Forumosa (tw.forumosa.com) is not a property portal in the conventional sense, but it is the most active English-language forum for expats in Taiwan. Housing discussions, neighbourhood recommendations, and occasional listings posted by community members make it a valuable supplementary resource.

Are there letting agencies or relocation agents for expats in Taiwan?

Approaching a local estate agent directly is often a sensible step. The majority of Taiwanese agents operate exclusively in Mandarin, but a number of agencies in major cities specifically cater to the international community.

UR House Realty has more than a decade of experience helping expatriates settle in Taiwan. The agency operates dedicated divisions covering residential, expat, office, and commercial requirements, and works with multilingual agents alongside a broad network of landlords, serviced apartment providers, property developers, and embassies. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or relocating as part of a global organisation, UR House offers free property viewings and orientation sessions, with English-speaking consultants taking time to understand your priorities before curating a selection of suitable properties. Visit urhouse.com.tw.

Mango Roc focuses on assisting expat clients in finding apartments across areas including Xinyi, Da’an, and Shilin, and also supports international and exchange students seeking accommodation. Visit mangoroc.com.

Savills is an internationally recognised real estate agency with a Taiwan office, offering both residential and commercial rental services. Colliers International is another global real estate firm with a local presence, providing assistance to expatriates searching for appropriate rental accommodation. Both are particularly well suited to individuals relocating through corporate or international assignment packages. They can be found at savills.com.tw and colliers.com/en-tw respectively.

It is worth noting that some employers in Taiwan provide foreign staff with a housing allowance on top of their basic salary, while others offer company-provided accommodation. Negotiating this as part of your employment package — especially when relocating specifically for a role — can make a meaningful difference to your overall cost of living. Large multinational corporations and international organisations frequently use established agencies to coordinate corporate relocations on behalf of incoming employees.

What other ways can expats find rental properties in Taiwan?

A number of Facebook groups are dedicated to expats searching for rental accommodation in Taipei, where landlords, agents, and outgoing tenants post available properties. Groups such as “Taipei Taiwan Apartment Rentals” and “Expats In Taiwan” can be useful starting points. Posts in these groups are generally accessible to non-Mandarin speakers, though listings aimed at an international audience tend to command higher rents and are often rooms within shared flats rather than entire apartments.

Additional communities worth searching on Facebook include “Rental Apartments in Taiwan” and “Looking for Roommates or Apartments in Taipei and Taiwan.” These groups can surface listings that never appear on formal portals and provide candid, first-hand advice from residents already living in your target area. The Forumosa expat forum serves a similar function.

Word of mouth remains one of the most effective informal channels. Speaking directly to other expats — at workplaces, international schools, or social gatherings — can uncover opportunities that are never publicly advertised. International school notice boards sometimes display apartment listings, and it is not uncommon for a departing tenant to seek someone to take over their lease directly.

Many apartment buildings in Taiwan are staffed by security guards who may be aware of vacant units within the complex. Approaching the guard of a building that appeals to you is worth trying, though a Mandarin-speaking companion will help considerably. For those with some language ability, walking through a target neighbourhood and scanning the red and yellow notices pinned to telegraph poles, walls, and communal boards can reveal privately advertised properties that never reach online platforms.

Short-term rentals and serviced apartments offer a practical solution for those planning a stay of only a few months. They typically come fully furnished, include utilities within the monthly rate, and may offer additional services such as regular housekeeping. On a per-month basis, short lets are more expensive than standard leases, and local regulations mean supply is somewhat limited. Many newcomers choose to stay in short-term accommodation while conducting their property search at a more measured pace — a strategy that avoids rushed decisions and allows time to become familiar with different neighbourhoods before committing.

What should expats expect from the rental application process in Taiwan?

The rental application process in Taiwan is considerably less formalised than in many other countries. There is no centralised credit-checking system of the kind found in Germany or Australia, and no mandatory standardised application form. Landlords base their decisions primarily on documentation and their personal impression of the prospective tenant. A typical process unfolds as follows:

1. Search and shortlist: Use online portals (591, Taiwan Housing, Tealit) or an agent to identify properties. Consider proximity to MRT lines, international schools, and your workplace.
2. Arrange viewings: In some cases, the landlord may wish to meet the prospective tenant before accepting an application. Use this as an opportunity to raise any questions and establish a shared understanding of the terms.
3. Prepare documentation: You will typically need to provide a copy of your passport and, if applicable, your Alien Resident Certificate (ARC). Proof of employment and your employer’s contact details are also generally required.
4. Arrange a guarantor if needed: Some landlords require a Taiwanese citizen to co-sign the lease as a guarantor. If you work for an international company, your employer may be willing to fulfil this role.
5. Negotiate terms: Discuss the rent amount, what furnishings and appliances are included, which utilities fall to the tenant, and any other conditions. Verify the landlord’s identity by requesting their identity certificate, a housing tax slip, or proof of property registration.
6. Review the contract: Read the lease thoroughly before signing. Since contracts are almost always written in Mandarin, arranging for a trusted person to translate the document is strongly advisable for anyone who does not read Chinese.
7. Pay deposit and first month’s rent: Once both parties have agreed to the terms, the security deposit (capped at two months’ rent) and the first month’s rent are paid and the keys are handed over.

The Taipei rental market is fiercely competitive, and expats can occasionally find themselves at a disadvantage. Some landlords are reluctant to rent to foreign nationals, and those who do may request a larger deposit. Engaging an agency that specialises in expat tenancies can significantly reduce this friction, as agents are able to advocate on your behalf and manage communication with landlords directly.

Rent is typically paid by bank transfer or at a post office. Some landlords require tenants to hold a local bank account. Opening one in Taiwan generally requires your passport and ARC, so it is advisable to prioritise this shortly after arrival. Cash payments are accepted by some landlords, particularly in older or informal letting arrangements.

What are the typical costs involved in renting in Taiwan?

Before moving in, it is important to account for several upfront costs beyond the first month’s rent. Understanding which charges are legally capped — and where informal practice sometimes diverges — will help you avoid overpaying.

Security deposit: Article 7 of the Rental Housing Market Development and Regulation Act stipulates that the amount of a security deposit for a residential lease may not exceed the equivalent of two months’ rent, consistent with Article 99 of the Taiwan Land Act (as of 2025). In practice, the market can be informal: while two months is the legal maximum, three months occasionally appears, though this would technically be unlawful. If a landlord requests more than two months, you are entitled to decline or raise the issue. Should a tenant file a complaint with the competent authority, the landlord may face a fine of between NT$30,000 and NT$300,000 (as of 2025).

Agency fee: When securing a property through a letting agent, tenants may be asked to contribute to the agent’s commission, generally equivalent to around one month’s rent, often divided equally between tenant and landlord. Always establish clearly who is responsible for this payment before committing to an agent.

Management fees: Modern residential buildings frequently levy a monthly management fee to cover security, cleaning, and upkeep of communal areas. This typically falls between NT$500 and NT$3,000 per month (as of 2024). Confirm whether this charge is included within the advertised rent or billed separately.

Utilities: Water and electricity costs are generally the tenant’s responsibility and are charged in addition to rent. Clarify exactly what is included before signing the lease. The Rental Housing Market Development and Regulation Act includes a protection preventing landlords from levying excessive electricity surcharges: where a contract places the electricity bill on the tenant, the amount the landlord may charge is capped at the official maximum consumption rate per hour in summer.

Taxes for corporate leases: Most rental listings are quoted exclusive of tax. Where a company is signing the lease on an employee’s behalf, a combined charge of approximately 12.11% — comprising 10% withholding tax and 2.11% second-generation health insurance — may apply on top of the base rent. Confirm this with your employer or a local accountant if it is relevant to your situation.

As a general guide, shared apartments or private rooms in Taipei typically range from NT$7,000 to NT$20,000 per month; studios or one-bedroom apartments from NT$12,000 to NT$40,000; and larger two-or-more-bedroom apartments from NT$25,000 to NT$60,000 per month (as of 2024–25). Always check current figures with a local letting agent, as the market evolves quickly.

What types of rental contract are common in Taiwan, and what should expats watch out for?

The standard tenancy in Taiwan runs for twelve months, though some leases cover a shorter period such as six months or a single academic semester. Arrangements of three to six months do exist but are less common. Unlike parts of Northern Europe where rolling monthly contracts are widespread, fixed-term leases are the norm in Taiwan and most landlords expect a full-year commitment.

Leases are almost always drawn up in Mandarin. If you are not a confident reader of Chinese, arranging for someone you trust to translate the document before you sign is strongly advisable. One curiosity of the Taiwanese system — often surprising to those from more formalised tenancy frameworks — is that standardised lease forms are sold at 7-Eleven convenience stores. That said, regardless of what form a contract takes, always insist on a written agreement for your own protection.

Key points to examine and confirm before putting pen to paper include:

• Break clauses: Generally, ending a lease before its expiry requires 30 days’ written notice and the payment of one month’s rent as a penalty. Exact terms can vary, so ensure these are clearly set out in the contract.
• Furniture and appliances: Establish precisely what the property includes. Rentals in Taiwan fall into two broad categories — furnished and unfurnished. Furnished units typically include white goods and basic furniture and allow for immediate occupation; most studios and compact one-to-two bedroom apartments are offered on this basis.
• Subletting: Before agreeing to sublet a property, check the original lease to verify that subletting is permitted. Subletting without the landlord’s consent is one of the grounds on which a tenancy may lawfully be terminated.
• Rent increases: Any provision for rent review or increases upon renewal should be explicitly stated in the contract. Landlords who raise rents on renewal face corresponding increases in their own tax liability, which can act as a natural restraint on excessive hikes.
• Landlord repairs: Under the Rental Housing Market Development and Regulation Act, landlords bear responsibility for maintaining the leased premises unless the contract stipulates otherwise. Before the lease is signed, landlords are required to explain which items and repairs fall within their remit and to provide contact details for maintenance requests.
• Landlord identity: Confirm that the person renting the property to you is either its registered owner or is otherwise authorised to let it. A prospective landlord can be asked to produce their identity certificate, a housing tax slip, or documentation confirming property registration.

What are the legal rights and protections for tenants in Taiwan?

Residential tenancies in Taiwan are governed by the Civil Code and the Land Act, as well as the Rental Housing Market Development and Regulation Act and its associated regulations. This Act, which came into force in 2019, introduced a more structured and transparent framework for the rental market and significantly strengthened protections for tenants. Its full text in English is available on Taiwan’s official laws database at law.moj.gov.tw.

Under the legislation, a landlord may not evict a tenant unless one of the following situations arises: the landlord requires the property for their own occupation or for renovation; the tenant has sublet the property without the landlord’s knowledge or agreement; or the tenant has fallen two months behind on rent, the deposit has been applied to cover the arrears, and the outstanding balance remains unpaid.

Where a breach of contract occurs, the landlord must give the tenant seven days’ written notice before any eviction can proceed. For residential tenancies, tenants are generally not obliged to obtain insurance, and responsibility for repairs ordinarily rests with the landlord.

At the end of a tenancy, both parties should conduct a joint inspection of the property and its fixtures to assess wear, tear, and any damage. If one party fails to attend despite being given reasonable notice, the inspection is considered complete in their absence. This process is important: photographing the property thoroughly both at move-in and move-out provides essential documentation if a deposit dispute arises.

Lease disputes are referred to the relevant Municipal or City Land Office for conciliation. Should either party decline to accept the conciliation outcome, the matter may be taken to the courts for adjudication. This system broadly resembles tenancy deposit arbitration schemes in other countries — such as those operated in the UK or Australia — but in Taiwan it is administered through the land authority rather than a dedicated housing tribunal.

For practical advice and peer support, the Forumosa expat forum hosts active legal and housing sections where long-term residents share guidance from experience. For formal complaints about a landlord in breach of the Rental Housing Market Development and Regulation Act, contact the Housing Bureau of your local Municipal Government or the competent authority in your city.

Frequently asked questions about renting property in Taiwan

Can foreigners rent property in Taiwan without any restrictions?

Yes. There are no legal barriers preventing foreign nationals from renting residential property in Taiwan. While rents — particularly in Taipei — can be on the higher side, the sheer volume of available properties means that with some patience and resourcefulness, expats can generally find comfortable, reasonably priced accommodation. Holding an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is not a legal requirement for renting, but many landlords request it as a form of identification, and having one tends to make the process smoother.

What are the typical upfront costs when renting in Taiwan?

Plan to cover the first month’s rent, a security deposit of up to two months’ rent (the legal maximum as of 2025), and — if using a letting agent — a fee of roughly half to one month’s rent. Many newer buildings also charge a monthly management fee, typically between NT$500 and NT$3,000 (as of 2024). Before committing, always confirm which utilities and additional charges are included in the advertised rent figure.

Are furnished properties common in Taiwan?

Rental properties in Taiwan are offered in both furnished and unfurnished configurations. Furnished apartments arrive equipped with appliances and furniture, enabling an immediate move-in, and the majority of studios and smaller one-to-two bedroom units fall into this category. That said, unfurnished properties do exist. For those needing to furnish a home from scratch, second-hand furniture and appliances are readily available through online marketplaces, thrift shops, and expat community groups.

Do I need a Taiwanese guarantor to rent in Taiwan?

Certain landlords require a Taiwanese citizen to co-sign the lease as a guarantor. If you are employed by an international company, your employer may be able to take on this role. In districts with a high concentration of expat residents, guarantor requirements are less common, but it is sensible to explore this possibility in advance rather than be caught off guard during negotiations.

How can I avoid rental scams in Taiwan?

Always inspect a property in person before transferring any money. When using Facebook groups or online platforms, take care to verify both the listing and the identity of the landlord. Never pay upfront for a property you have not personally visited. Request that any prospective landlord produce their identity certificate, a housing tax slip, or documentation confirming property registration to verify that they have the legal right to rent out the premises.

Are rental contracts in Taiwan always in Mandarin?

Lease agreements are almost always written in Mandarin, making it strongly advisable to have a trusted person translate the document if you do not read Chinese. Some agencies that focus on the expat market — including UR House Realty and PopRooms — can provide bilingual contracts in both Mandarin and English, which is one of the more compelling reasons to work with a specialist agency when you first arrive.

What happens if there is a dispute with my landlord?

Tenancy disputes are submitted to the respective Municipal or City Land Office for conciliation. If either party refuses to accept the outcome of conciliation, the case can be escalated to the courts for judicial resolution. The Forumosa expat forum is also a helpful informal resource for initial guidance, and specialist agencies such as UR House provide ongoing tenant support throughout the life of a lease.

Is it worth using a letting agent as an expat in Taiwan?

For expats without Mandarin skills, engaging a letting agent is often well worth the cost. Agents can introduce you to suitable neighbourhoods, organise viewings, and handle contract negotiations on your behalf. Some expat-specialist agencies also take the move-in and move-out inspection process seriously, helping to prevent deposit disputes at the end of the tenancy. Given the time, stress, and potential complications that professional support can spare you, the agency fee generally represents good value — particularly for those new to Taiwan.