Taiwan is one of Asia’s most welcoming and rewarding destinations for English teachers — offering a mix of career stability, personal freedom, and cultural charm. With its friendly locals, modern infrastructure, low crime rates, and excellent food, it's no wonder that thousands of teachers choose to live and work here each year.
But not all cities offer the same teaching experience. Where you live can influence everything — your salary, your cost of living, your work-life balance, and the kind of lifestyle you enjoy outside the classroom. Taiwan’s cities and regions each have their own unique rhythm, vibe, and opportunities.
This article will explore the best places to teach English in Taiwan — from the dynamic energy of Taipei to the coastal calm of Tainan and the hidden gems of the East Coast. Whether you’re looking to save money, immerse in culture, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life, there’s a corner of Taiwan that fits.
🏙 Taipei – Urban Life and Career Opportunities
Taipei is Taiwan’s capital and economic hub — and it's where you’ll find the highest number of English teaching jobs. From cram schools (buxibans) and kindergartens to international schools and private tutoring, Taipei offers opportunities for teachers of all backgrounds and experience levels.
While the cost of living is higher than in the rest of the country, salaries tend to match — making it possible to live comfortably and even save if you're careful with your budget. Public transportation is world-class, and the city is packed with modern conveniences: shopping malls, tech hubs, expat-friendly cafes, and endless nightlife options.
Taipei is also the most globally connected city in Taiwan, making it ideal for teachers who want to build long-term careers, grow their professional network, and enjoy a fast-paced, international lifestyle.
- Best For: Career-driven teachers, city lovers, and expats looking for community.
- Expect: Higher salaries, bigger crowds, and non-stop energy.
🌆 New Taipei City – Suburban Access to the Capital
New Taipei City surrounds Taipei on all sides, offering a mix of urban convenience and suburban calm. While technically a separate municipality, it’s deeply integrated with the capital thanks to the MRT system and frequent buses — making it easy to live in one and work in the other.
Rent is generally more affordable here, and many neighborhoods like Banqiao, Xindian, and Tamsui offer a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to jobs and amenities. You’ll still find plenty of cram schools, kindergartens, and public schools hiring English teachers across New Taipei.
This area is ideal for teachers who want to stay close to Taipei’s energy and job market but prefer a quieter, more spacious place to call home.
- Best For: Teachers who want a blend of city access and quieter living.
- Expect: Lower rent, good transit links, and suburban vibes with urban perks.
🏞 Taichung – Laid-Back Living with Steady Demand
Taichung sits in central Taiwan and is a favorite among teachers who want a more balanced lifestyle. It’s large enough to have all the conveniences of a major city — shopping malls, art museums, cafes, parks — but without the intensity or high prices of Taipei.
English teaching jobs are widely available here, especially in cram schools, kindergartens, and public schools. The demand is steady, and competition is often lower than in the north, making it easier to land a job even if you’re newer to teaching.
The weather is generally pleasant, the cost of living is affordable, and the city is well-connected for travel to both the mountains and the coast. Taichung strikes a sweet spot for many teachers looking for work-life balance, long-term livability, and strong community vibes.
- Best For: Teachers seeking a relaxed pace, affordable living, and solid job opportunities.
- Expect: Lower stress, friendly locals, and a great base for exploring Taiwan.
🌇 Kaohsiung – Southern Charm and Growing Opportunities
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern gem, offers a blend of big-city infrastructure and laid-back coastal vibes. Known for its year-round warm weather, harbor views, and friendly locals, it’s a refreshing alternative to the faster pace of Taipei.
While the ESL job market here isn’t as dense as the north, opportunities are steadily growing thanks to urban development and increased interest in English education. You’ll find work in cram schools, kindergartens, and a few international institutions — with slightly less competition for roles.
Kaohsiung is ideal for teachers looking to live somewhere a bit quieter, warmer, and more authentically local. With beaches, parks, and nearby mountains, it’s also a great place for outdoor lovers who want a slower rhythm without giving up urban comforts.
- Best For: Teachers who prefer a relaxed atmosphere, sunshine, and cultural immersion.
- Expect: Lower cost of living, growing demand, and a more local feel.
🏖 Tainan – History, Culture, and Community
Tainan, often called the cultural heart of Taiwan, is the country’s oldest city and a haven for those who value history, tradition, and authentic daily life. It’s filled with centuries-old temples, vibrant night markets, and a slower pace that invites teachers to settle in and truly connect with their surroundings.
While the expat community is smaller than in bigger cities, there's still a steady demand for English teachers — particularly in cram schools, kindergartens, and local educational programs. Schools here often value long-term commitment and cultural understanding, which makes it a great fit for teachers who want to be more than just visitors.
Tainan is ideal for those who want to experience Taiwan’s heritage up close and enjoy a quieter lifestyle with meaningful community connections. Plus, the cost of living is lower, and the food scene is famously rich in local flavors.
- Best For: Teachers who value history, local culture, and a tight-knit community.
- Expect: Modest salaries, fewer expats, and a deeply immersive experience.
🏞 Hsinchu – Taiwan’s Tech Hub
Hsinchu, often dubbed “Taiwan’s Silicon Valley,” is home to a large concentration of science parks, high-tech companies, and engineering universities. With a population of skilled professionals and international families, there’s strong demand for quality English education — especially in bilingual and private schools that serve the children of Taiwan’s tech elite.
Teaching jobs in Hsinchu typically pay more than the national average, but they also tend to have higher expectations. Schools may prioritize certified teachers or those with prior experience, especially for roles involving curriculum planning or academic English.
If you're looking for a more professional teaching environment, or you have a background in STEM or education, Hsinchu offers a rewarding opportunity. The city also has good infrastructure, a growing expat community, and easy access to both Taipei and the central coast.
- Best For: Qualified teachers and professionals looking for higher pay and structured schools.
- Expect: Competitive job offers, academic rigor, and a quieter lifestyle with modern comforts.
✈️ Taoyuan – Gateway City with Solid Job Options
Taoyuan is best known as the home of Taiwan’s international airport, but it’s also a growing city with strong demand for English teachers, especially in suburban and industrial areas. While it may lack the buzz of Taipei or Kaohsiung, it offers easy access to the capital and a lower cost of living — making it a strategic choice for teachers who want balance.
The city has a mix of buxibans, public schools, and bilingual programs, with many families seeking English education for their children. Thanks to Taoyuan’s proximity to Taipei (just 30–45 minutes by train), it’s also a good option for teachers who want city access without paying capital-city prices.
Taoyuan is ideal for teachers who are budget-conscious but still want career growth and convenience, especially those with families or those looking to save money while teaching abroad.
- Best For: Teachers who want to live affordably near Taipei or settle in a quieter, family-friendly area.
- Expect: Lower rent, consistent job demand, and easy travel access.
👉 Explore Teaching Jobs in Taoyuan
🏔 Hualien and Taitung – Scenic and Off the Beaten Path
Hualien and Taitung, located along Taiwan’s stunning east coast, offer a lifestyle far removed from the fast pace of the western cities. These regions are famous for their natural beauty — think dramatic mountains, coastal cliffs, and serene beaches. For teachers looking to escape the hustle and truly immerse themselves in Taiwan’s quieter side, these towns provide a rare opportunity.
Teaching jobs here are less plentiful, but they do exist — especially through public school placements, rural education initiatives, and government-sponsored programs. These roles may not offer the highest salaries, but the cost of living is low, and the lifestyle is peaceful and community-focused.
If you’re the kind of teacher who prefers hiking trails over night markets and starry skies over skyscrapers, Hualien or Taitung might be your perfect fit. Expect meaningful work, slower rhythms, and close ties with local students and families.
- Best For: Nature lovers, introverts, and teachers who value calm over convenience.
- Expect: Fewer job openings, lower competition, and a truly local experience.
👉 Teach English in Taitung 👉 Teach English in Hualien
🧑🏫 Rural Areas – Immersion and Simplicity
Teaching English in Taiwan’s rural towns and villages offers a completely different experience from the city life of Taipei or Kaohsiung. These areas often lack the conveniences and buzz of urban centers, but they offer something many teachers crave: authentic cultural immersion and a deeper connection with the local community.
Jobs in rural areas are typically in public schools or part of government initiatives to improve education in underserved regions. While salaries tend to be on the lower end, housing is often included or subsidized, and the cost of living is minimal. You might find yourself as the only foreign teacher in town — a challenge for some, but a rewarding opportunity for others.
This path is ideal for those who are adaptable, culturally curious, and interested in making a meaningful impact while living simply and locally.
- Best For: Adventurous teachers who want to fully integrate into Taiwanese life.
- Expect: Modest pay, strong community ties, and fewer modern conveniences.
🧭 Conclusion: Matching Your Goals to the Right Place
Taiwan offers a wide variety of teaching environments — from the fast-paced energy of Taipei, to the historic charm of Tainan, the nature-filled coasts of Hualien, and the tight-knit communities in rural towns. Each location brings its own rhythm, culture, and advantages, so finding the right fit depends on your goals and lifestyle preferences.
If you're seeking higher pay, professional development, or urban convenience, cities like Taipei, Taichung, or Hsinchu may be the best fit. If you’re drawn to culture, nature, or a slower pace, places like Tainan, Kaohsiung, or rural areas might suit you better.
For first-time teachers, starting in a larger city with a strong expat network and job support is a smart move. Once you're settled, you’ll have the flexibility to explore other parts of the country and discover where you truly thrive.
Helping teachers find jobs they will love.