Taiwan sees record high incomes in 2023, survey shows

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS, 主計總處) revealed in its latest survey, released on Friday (Aug. 16), that the 2023 average income for those with earnings reached NT$709,000 last year, with individuals under 30 earning an average of NT$545,000, both hit record highs.

The DGBAS' 2023 Survey of Family Income and Expenditure (2023年家庭收支調查) highlighted that the average disposable income per household was NT$1,137,000, marking a 2.5% increase from 2022. The median disposable income rose by 2.2% to NT$961,000.

When adjusted for household size, the average per capita disposable income stood at NT$407,000, a 4.0% increase, with the median at NT$349,000, up by 3.7%.

A DGBAS official emphasized that income includes more than just wages, covering a broader range such as interest from investments, rental income, and government transfers.

The official further noted that stable economic growth and declining unemployment have helped boost incomes in recent years. Additionally, the government's one-off NT$6,000 universal cash handout last year benefited everyone, further driving up overall income.