The Reality of Working and Living in Taipei: A Look at Wages, Expenses, and Expectations
The Initial Dream: Higher Wages and Opportunities
The latest survey shows that the minimum monthly wage in Taiwan is NT$28,590, and the hourly minimum wage is NT$190. Many people dream of leaving their hometowns and going to Northern Taiwan in hopes of getting higher wages. The promise of greater opportunities and a more vibrant city life lures many young graduates, like Wojak, to become "North-drifting youth."
The Cost of Living in Taipei: A Rude Awakening
Wojak's initial excitement about working in Taipei quickly fades as he begins his apartment search. He is shocked by the high rental prices for small, poorly maintained apartments. For example, one listing for a tiny room with a bad smell and no windows costs NT$12,000 per month, an amount that could rent three rooms in Southern Taiwan.
The daily expenses are also much higher than Wojak expects. A simple meal can easily cost NT$150, and daily food expenses can average NT$600, leading to monthly food costs of around NT$18,000. Even with a higher salary, saving money proves difficult.
Commuting and the Work-Life Balance
In addition to the financial strain, Wojak finds the daily commute to be exhausting, spending two hours traveling to and from work each day, adding to his nine-hour workday. This leaves little time for personal pursuits.
The Social Landscape and Expectations
Despite initial concerns, Wojak finds his colleagues to be friendly, but also notices a cultural difference. He feels that his Southern origins make him seem "uncool" or unsophisticated to some.
His girlfriend, Yumi, who encouraged him to move, begins to question whether he is saving enough money and whether he can afford to buy a home in Taipei, putting pressure on him.
A Year Later: Reality Sets In
After working in Taipei for over a year and being frugal, Wojak is disappointed with his savings. He manages to save only NT$1,000-2,000 per month after covering rent, food, and utilities. His relationship with Yumi ends, and he realizes that he has invested more in himself than in tangible savings.
Reflecting on the Choice: Was it Worth It?
Wojak returns to his hometown and meets up with his friends who chose to stay behind. While his friends' salaries are lower, they have managed to save more money living at home. Wojak begins to question whether his initial decision to work in Taipei was the right one. Despite the higher wages and opportunities, the high cost of living, demanding work hours, and social pressures have taken a toll. He realizes that although Taipei is a vibrant city, he may not necessarily fit in. Ultimately, the article shows that although a city like Taipei has many opportunities, it comes at a price, both financially and emotionally.