For Overseas Filipino Workers eyeing Taiwan as a destination, working in a factory holds significant appeal. Despite initial worries about living costs, many find that life as a factory worker in Taiwan can be surprisingly affordable.
This article looks into the day-to-day expenses of an OFW living and working in a Taiwanese factory. We’ll explore how careful spending and wise money management can lead to a fulfilling life without burning a hole in your pocket.
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
Navigating Costs as a Factory Worker in Taiwan
This article is based on a YouTube video from the channel BeliJr. In this video, the OFW vlogger talks about his personal average expenses living and working as a factory worker in Taiwan. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
Working as a Filipino factory worker in Taiwan offers numerous advantages, including affordable living expenses that make it an attractive option for many OFWs. Here are some reasons why working as a factory worker in Taiwan can be budget-friendly:
- Affordable Housing Options: Taiwan offers various housing options at reasonable prices, including dormitories provided by factories or shared accommodations with fellow OFWs.
- Subsidized Meals: Many factories in Taiwan offer subsidized or even free meals to their employees, reducing daily food expenses significantly.
- Accessible Public Transportation: Taiwan boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including buses and trains, making commuting affordable and convenient for factory workers.
- Healthcare Benefits: Some employers provide health insurance coverage or access to affordable healthcare services, ensuring that medical expenses remain manageable.
- Cost-Effective Leisure Activities: Taiwan offers a plethora of affordable leisure activities, including visits to parks, museums, and night markets, allowing factory workers to enjoy their free time without overspending.
Accommodation
For the vlogger, accommodation costs amount to 600 NT Dollars, approximately 1,080 pesos, depending on the prevailing conversion rate. This sum covers essential utilities such as electricity, water, and air conditioning, making it a comprehensive package.
However, it’s important to note that accommodation rents can vary significantly across Taiwan. As a factory worker, the vlogger enjoys the benefit of affordable living arrangements, typically residing in dormitories provided by the employer.
These dormitories are well-maintained and offer a comfortable living environment. It’s worth mentioning that accommodation costs differ based on the nature of one’s profession in Taiwan. For instance, engineers may have different housing arrangements, such as staying in hotels, while caregivers may have separate accommodation options tailored to their needs.
Some factories even offer accommodation priced around 3,000 NT Dollars. In this regard, the vlogger considers himself fortunate to be employed by a factory that provides affordable accommodation, allowing him to save on living expenses and allocate more resources towards other necessities.
Transportation Expenses
Transportation expenses for the vlogger typically amount to 200 NT when using buses, with occasional instances of spending up to 500 NT per month, particularly when opting for Uber or taxis. However, it’s noteworthy that his travel frequency is relatively low.
He primarily travels to the city or visits the night market, occasionally venturing out for grocery shopping. Known for his frugal habits, the vlogger adopts a prudent approach to transportation, avoiding unnecessary expenses and opting for cost-effective modes of travel whenever possible.
Foods and Groceries
When it comes to food and groceries, the vlogger maintains a budget of 1,000 to 2,000 NT Dollars. His purchases typically include essential food items such as biscuits, milk, and oatmeal, which are both nutritious and budget-friendly.
These items suffice for his monthly grocery needs in Taiwan, demonstrating his ability to manage expenses without overspending. By prioritizing affordable yet nourishing food options, the vlogger ensures that his grocery budget stretches further, allowing him to maintain a balanced diet without straining his finances.
Internet
The vlogger utilizes a SIM card for communication purposes, which costs nearly 600 NT per month. This subscription not only enables him to make calls but also provides access to fast and reliable internet services. Additionally, there’s an option to pay for internet services annually, which often proves to be more cost-effective.
Moreover, some dormitories offer WiFi access, albeit at a slower speed, for which residents can opt to pay on a monthly basis. With several service providers offering Internet packages, there’s ample flexibility to choose a plan that best fits one’s needs and budget.
Clothing
The vlogger allocates a budget ranging from 2,000 NT to 4,000 NT for clothing expenses, although he often finds himself spending less, especially if there are no immediate needs. Occasionally, he invests in new clothing items, particularly when traveling or attending special events.
In Taiwan, most clothing stores offer branded items such as Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and Puma. The vlogger’s recent purchases include shoes and a jacket, but he typically indulges in shopping once every two months, sometimes making impulsive purchases when browsing online.
Travel and Leisure Expenses
For travel and leisure activities, the vlogger budgets approximately 1,500 to 2,000 NT per month, primarily for trips to Taipei and other tourist destinations. However, he doesn’t embark on frequent travels, usually doing so only when invited by friends or family. This prudent approach allows him to enjoy occasional outings without straining his budget, ensuring that he maintains financial stability while still indulging in leisurely pursuits.
Food
Every day, factory workers have the convenience of swiping their cards to access meals in the canteen, with the cost deducted directly from their salary. The vlogger typically spends between 2,000 to 3,000 NT in the canteen each month. However, occasional expenses outside for food are rare. Overall, the vlogger prides himself on being very prudent with his spending in Taiwan.
On average, his total monthly expenses amount to around 10,200 NTD or 18,000 pesos, which includes all essentials and discretionary spending. It’s worth noting that this is the maximum expense, as there are times when he opts to stay in the dorm or refrains from traveling, allowing him to save money.
The vlogger’s experiences shed light on effective budgeting for factory workers in Taiwan. From affordable living arrangements to smart spending on essentials like food and transportation, the key lesson is clear: with careful planning, factory workers can comfortably manage their expenses while enjoying their time abroad.