Roquetas de Mar vs. Keelung: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Roquetas de Mar, located in the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia, offers a significantly more affordable cost of living compared to Keelung in Taiwan. While Roquetas de Mar presents lower expenses in most categories, including housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, Keelung boasts higher salaries and a more modern infrastructure. However, the overall cost of living in Keelung is substantially higher, reflecting the premium associated with living in a developed Asian city. Quality of life metrics, such as safety, healthcare access, and environmental factors, show Keelung as superior, but Roquetas de Mar offers a more relaxed lifestyle typical of southern Spain.

Housing costs in Roquetas de Mar are considerably lower than in Keelung. A 3-bedroom apartment in the city center of Roquetas de Mar averages €216,000 (approximately $230,000), while outside the center, the price drops to €172,000 ($184,000). In contrast, Keelung’s 3-bedroom apartments range from NT$4,092,000 (approximately $130,000) in the city center to NT$3,069,000 ($98,000) outside, reflecting a lower local currency value but still significantly higher than Spain’s regional averages. Utilities for an 85m² apartment in Roquetas de Mar cost €200 per month, while in Keelung, the same services cost NT$3,500 (approximately €85), highlighting the disparity in utility expenses.

Food costs in Roquetas de Mar are much lower than in Keelung. A mid-range meal for two people costs €20 (approximately $21), compared to Keelung’s €500 (€150). Groceries for a family of four in Roquetas de Mar average €300 per month, while in Keelung, the same family would spend approximately €900. Transportation costs also differ significantly: a monthly public transport pass in Roquetas de Mar costs €70, while in Keelung, it is NT$6,000 (approximately €180). Fuel costs are lower in Roquetas de Mar (€1.60/L) compared to Keelung (€0.90/L).

Healthcare in Roquetas de Mar is affordable, with a doctor visit costing €30 and a hospital stay averaging €150 per day. In Keelung, a doctor visit costs NT$200 (approximately €65), and a hospital stay averages NT$3,000 per day (approximately €950). Safety is higher in Roquetas de Mar, with a crime rate of 4 per 1,000 inhabitants, compared to Keelung’s rate of 12 per 1,000. Environmental factors also favor Roquetas de Mar, with lower pollution levels and a higher quality of life index.

Average monthly salaries in Roquetas de Mar range from €1,200 to €2,000, while in Keelung, the average net salary is €5,500. Although Keelung offers higher earning potential, the cost of living is significantly higher, making it less affordable for many. Quality of life metrics, such as education, healthcare, and public services, are superior in Keelung, but Roquetas de Mar offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower stress levels and a strong sense of community.

Roquetas de Mar is ideal for those seeking an affordable lifestyle with a relaxed pace, while Keelung is suited for individuals or families with higher incomes who prioritize modern amenities, better healthcare, and a higher quality of life. The choice between the two cities depends on individual priorities, with Roquetas de Mar offering affordability and a traditional lifestyle, and Keelung providing modern conveniences and higher earning potential at a premium cost.