Best Cities and Places to Live in The Philippines Introduction
With over 7,000 islands offering stunning tropical landscapes, rich culture and history, and warm hospitality, the Philippines is a lovely destination for both short-term visits and long-term living that caters to a variety of interests.
Imagine waking up to the idea of exploring a new island every weekend, well you don’t have to just dream about it, you can live this life. Explore the unique advantages, from a welcoming community to breathtaking natural beauty, making the Philippines a top choice for expats like ourselves.
Here are the 11 Top Reasons to Live in the Philippines
- Affordable Cost of living in the Philippines: The low Cost of Living in The Philippines is truly incredible, we personally lived in the Philippines for around $900 – $1000 per month for all expenses.
- Island-Hopping Paradise: The Philippines, with its archipelagic beauty, offers a paradise for island-hopping enthusiasts. Each island has its distinct charm, from hidden lagoons to vibrant coral reefs waiting to be discovered.
- Soul-Satisfying Sunsets: The Philippines has some of the world’s most beautiful sunsets. Whether you’re on a peaceful beach or up in the mountains, the daily ritual of watching the sun drop below the horizon is a breathtaking experience that you will never forget.
- Festivals that Ignite the Senses: Dive into a vibrant cultural experience filled with colors, music, and traditions during the numerous festivals celebrated throughout the country. From the lively MassKara Festival to the awe-inspiring Ati-Atihan, each event helps bring communities together in a unique way.
- Community Spirit: Filipinos are not just friendly; they offer a true sense of community. Moving to the Philippines means becoming part of a tight-knit society where neighbors aren’t just neighbors – they’re an extended family. This strong community spirit can add a layer of support and warmth to your daily life.
- Enchanting Waterfalls: Escape into the heart of nature by exploring the enchanting waterfalls scattered across the Philippine archipelago. From the mystical Tinago Falls to the multi-tiered beauty of Maria Cristina Falls, the country is a haven for waterfall lovers who enjoy tranquility and natural beauty.
- Exotic Fruits Galore: Savor the taste of exotic fruits that are not only delicious but also abundant. From the sweet and spiky rambutan to the uniquely flavored lanzones, the Philippines offers a tropical fruit paradise that can turn your grocery shopping into a fun adventure.
- Cultural Tapestry of Indigenous Tribes: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural diversity of the Philippines by interacting with indigenous tribes. Learn about age-old traditions, witness mesmerizing dances, and gain an appreciation for the culture that defines the nation beyond its tourist hotspots.
- Diverse Marine Life: For marine enthusiasts, the Philippines is a dream destination. Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or swim with gentle giants like whale sharks in Donsol. The marine biodiversity is unparalleled and offers endless opportunities for exploration.
- Historical Intricacies: Explore centuries-old churches, colonial-era structures, and historical landmarks that tell tales of a storied past. From the cobblestone streets of Vigan to the ancient Banaue Rice Terraces, the Philippines is a living history book waiting to be read.
- Time-Honored Traditions: Experience the beauty of age-old traditions that are seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. Whether it’s the warmth of a ‘mano po’ gesture or the joyous celebration of the Pahiyas Festival, the Philippines preserves and celebrates traditions that add a unique and heartwarming touch to everyday interactions.
Moving to the Philippines is not just about moving abroad but it’s a fascinating journey into a world of natural wonders, cultural richness, and genuine connections that will redefine what it means to feel at home.
Cultural Considerations in The Philippines
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines, where kind locals and unique traditions shape daily life.
Filipino culture combines indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and community values. For example, the “mano po” gesture shows respect by taking an elder’s hand to one’s forehead.
Vibrant festivals like Cebu’s Sinulog and Baguio’s Panagbenga celebrate history, religion, and solidarity through parades and performances.
The “bayanihan” spirit underpins traditions of communal support, such as when neighbors unite to move homes. By embracing traditions like these, one gains a deeper connection to the richness of Filipino culture.
Table of Contents
General Cost of Living in The Philippines Breakdown:
| Cost of living in the Philippines for Expats Category | Cost Type | Monthly Cost in USD | Monthly Cost in PHP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing in the Philippines | Basic 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $200 – $300 | ₱10,000-15,000 |
| 2-bedroom apartment (city center) | $300 – $500 | ₱15,000-25,000 | |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) | $500 – $800 | ₱25,000-40,000 | |
| 3-4 bedroom villa (compound living) | $800 – $1500 | ₱40,000-75,000 | |
| Utilities (electricity, AC, water) for a family | $100 – $200 | ₱5,000-10,000 | |
| Food in the Philippines | Local and imported groceries for family | $300 – $500 | ₱15,000-25,000 |
| Dining out 2-3 times a week | $100 – $300 | ₱5,000-15,000 | |
| Cheap street food and fast food per meal | $2 – $5 | ₱100-250 | |
| Transportation in the Philippines | Jeepney per 5 km ride | $0.20 – $0.50 | ₱10-25 |
| Bus per 5 km ride | $0.30 – $0.75 | ₱15-40 | |
| Train per 5 km ride (PNR) | $0.10 – $0.30 | ₱5-15 | |
| Taxi per 5 km ride | $2 – $4 | ₱100-200 | |
| Grab (car) per 5 km ride | $2 – $5 | ₱100-250 | |
| Angkas (motorcycle taxi) per 5 km ride | $0.60 – $1.50 | ₱500-1500 | |
| Tricycle per 5 km ride | $1 – $2 | ₱250-750 | |
| Ferry boat ride | $0.50 – $2 | ₱15-30 | |
| Intercity bus ticket | $10 – $30 | ₱750-1500 | |
| Plane (local) ticket | $50 – $150 | ||
| Metro per ride | $0.30 – $0.60 | ||
| Monthly metro pass | $15 – $30 | ||
| Total Monthly Cost of living in the Philippines for Expats | $800 – $2,500 | ₱44,000-125,000 |
Navigate the vibrant housing market, from modern city apartments to beachfront villas finding your perfect home in the Philippines.
For more Information you can Checkout our Article that goes into more detail about the Cost of Living in The Philippines
Pros and Cons Of the Cities and Places in The Philippines
| Pros and Cons Of Living in Different Cities in The Philippines | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Manila | Vibrant culture and nightlife options; Major economic and transportation hub; Lots of universities and job opportunities | Substantial traffic congestion and pollution issues; Higher cost of living |
| Cebu City | Lower cost of living and taxes; Tropical lifestyle and beautiful beaches; Hub for business process outsourcing jobs | Infrastructure struggling to handle rapid growth; Public transport could be better |
| Davao City | Considered one of the safest cities; High quality of life, education, and healthcare; Mild weather year-round | Geographical isolation and travel access more limited |
| Tagaytay City | Ideal climate due to altitude; Convenient access to Manila; Abundant ecotourism and retirement options | Smaller job market present locally; Susceptible to Taal Volcano activity |
| Iloilo City | Geographical isolation and travel access are more limited | Prone to flooding and typhoon damage during the rainy season |
| Baguio City | Pleasant weather and scenery as the “Summer Capital”; Universities and student culture; Base to explore mountain nature attractions | Significant air pollution issues; Infrastructure struggling to support growing tourism |
| Angeles City | Lower cost of living; Lively restaurant and entertainment options; Proximity to Clark International Airport and business hub | Reputation for visa overstayers and sex tourism; Higher crime rate relative to other cities |
| Subic Bay Freeport Zone | Packaged resort offerings with duty free shopping; Protected rainforests and coves for eco-adventures | Isolated location and lack of public transit access; High turnover rate of businesses |
| Cagayan de Oro | Shopping malls, universities, and economic opportunities as Mindanao’s gateway; Whitewater rafting and scenic adventures | Flooding and rainfall disruption during wet season; Political instability in surrounding regions |
| Dumaguete City | Ideal seaside retirement spot; Home to several universities and laid-back lifestyle | Packaged resort offerings with duty-free shopping; Protected rainforests and coves for eco-adventures |
| Laoag City | Lacking globalized conveniences and high-end offerings | Underdevelopment and lack of modern amenities in surrounding rural regions |
13 Top Cities and Places to Live for Expats
| Top Cities and Places in the Philippines to live for Expats | Description | Estimated Rent Range (USD) | Estimated Rent Range (PHP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manila | The vibrant capital with top universities, cultural sights, dining, and nightlife. Lots of job opportunities as an economic hub. Traffic and pollution are downsides. | $500 – $1,500 | ₱27,500 – ₱82,500 |
| Cebu City | Cosmopolitan port city known for its resorts and beaches. Growing tech/startup scene. Lower cost of living than Manila. | $300 – $800 | ₱16,500 – ₱44,000 |
| Davao City | One of the safest cities. Praised for law and order and high quality of life. Nearby nature spots like Eden Nature Park. | $200 – $600 | ₱11,000 – ₱33,000 |
| Tagaytay City | Popular retirement spot due to mild climate. Close to Taal Volcano natural scenery. Far from metro noise but still accessible. | $150 – $500 | ₱8,250 – ₱27,500 |
| Iloilo City | Historic city with thriving food scene and nightlife. Gateway to Western Visayas islands and beaches. | $200 – $550 | ₱11,000 – ₱30,250 |
| Baguio City | Known as the “Summer Capital” for its cooler mountain climate. Base for natural attractions like Camp John Hay. | $180 – $450 | ₱9,900 – ₱24,750 |
| Angeles City | Lively expat community attracted by entertainment options and tourist nightlife scene. Near Clark business district. | $150 – $400 | ₱8,250 – ₱22,000 |
| Subic Bay Freeport Zone | Expats appreciate the many recreation options. Near beaches, mountain resorts, casinos, duty free shopping. | $150 – $350 | ₱8,250 – ₱19,250 |
| Cagayan de Oro City | Major economic hub in Mindanao. Fast-growing city with universities and shopping malls. Gateway to beaches. | $180 – $320 | ₱9,900 – ₱17,600 |
| Dumaguete City | University town known for expats and retirees. Laid-back vibe and nearby marine sanctuaries. | $100 – $250 | ₱5,500 – ₱13,750 |
| Laoag City | Quiet provincial capital near Fort Ilocandia resort complex and white sand beaches. | $80 – $200 | ₱4,400 – ₱11,000 |
Health Insurance While Living in the Philippines
Having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Saudi Arabia to protect against any unexpected incidents. SafetyWing is an excellent option tailored to global travelers and digital nomads.
Why Choose SafetyWing?
SafetyWing makes travel insurance easy and affordable at just $45-250/month. Here are some key reasons to consider it:
- Global coverage including exotic destinations
- Flexible policies fit nomadic lifestyles
- Easy sign-up and claims from phone/computer
- Covers medical, evacuations, disruptions, baggage, etc.
- 24/7 customer support anywhere
- Customizable coverage amounts and add-ons
Other Travel Insurance Options
While SafetyWing is a top choice, companies like WorldNomads, Cigna Global, and IMG also offer comprehensive travel insurance for the Philippines. Typical policies range from $45 – $500 for 2 weeks to a month of coverage. Compare coverage and premium costs.
Some key considerations for finding a good insurance policy:
- Emergency medical and evacuation
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Lost/delayed baggage
- Adventure sports coverage
- Altitude sickness coverage
- 24/7 emergency assistance
Philippines Insurance Cost Estimates
| Insurance Plan | Trip Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SafetyWing | 1 month | $45 – $250 |
| WorldNomads | 2 weeks | $100-$200 |
| Cigna Global | 1 month | $150-$300 |
| IMG | 2 weeks | $150-$250 |
Living in Manila for Expats
- Overview: As the booming capital, Manila provides great job opportunities but has a relatively high cost of living compared to other areas of the Philippines
Cost of Living
- Expats can expect a monthly budget between $1,500 – $2,500 (₱82,500-₱137,500)
- Basic utilities cost $150 – $250 (₱8,250-₱13,750) per month
- Groceries are around $300 – $500 (₱16,500-₱27,500) per month for one or two people
- Eating out costs $7 – $15 (₱385-₱825) per meal at local restaurants
Housing
- Rent for nice 1-2 bedroom apartments averages $500 – $1,500 (₱27,500-₱82,500) per month
- Upscale 3-4 bedroom serviced apartments or houses cost $1,800 – $4,000+ (₱99,000-₱220,000+) per month
- Short-term accommodations are $800+ (₱44,000+) per month
Healthcare and Hospitals
- There are very good internationally accredited hospitals
- Public healthcare is relatively affordable
- Private healthcare and insurance run $150 – $300 (₱8,250-₱16,500) per month
- Consider travel insurance like Safetywing or World Nomads with plans starting at just $45 per month.
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Great dining scene with food from around the world
- Major malls and shopping areas
- Vibrant arts scene and museums
- Nearby beaches and island getaways
Cost of Living in Manila
- Groceries for Family of 4
- Around $500 – $800 per month (₱27,500-44,000) for basics plus some imported items
- Dining Out
- The average meal cost is $7- $15 per person (₱385-825) at inexpensive restaurants
- Can dine out affordably 2-3 times per month
Transportation in Manila
- Public Transit
- Jeepneys, LRT, MRT, tricycles provide affordable basic public transit
- Very crowded during rush hours
- Taxis and Ride Sharing
- Taxis and services like Grab are a more comfortable transit option
- Can be prone to getting stuck in heavy traffic
- Owning a Vehicle
- Cars and gas are more expensive but provide most flexibility
- Prepare for heavy traffic conditions
Pros and Cons of Living in Manila
Pros:
- Cosmopolitan conveniences – malls, global cuisine, attractions
- Improving infrastructure
- Gateway to beautiful beaches and islands
Cons:
- Substantial pollution and traffic problems
- Risk of natural disasters – typhoons, earthquakes
- Political instability
For more you can checkout the article we did on Manila for the Best Neighborhoods and areas to live in Manila
Living in Cebu For Expats
Overview
- An up-and-coming modern city with excellent quality of life at lower costs than Manila
Cost of Living
- Monthly budget for a couple: $1,200 – $2,000 (₱66,000 – ₱110,000)
- Basic utilities: $100 – $150 (₱5,500 – ₱8,250)
- Groceries for 2: $200 – $400 (₱11,000 – ₱22,000)
- Average meal cost at local restaurants: $4 – $10 (₱220 – ₱550)
Housing
- 1-2 bedroom apartments average $400 – $1,000 (₱22,000 – ₱55,000)
- Upscale condos range $1,200 – $3,000+ (₱66,000 – ₱165,000+)
- Short term rentals from $500+ (₱27,500+)
Healthcare and Hospitals
- High-quality hospitals and clinics available
- Public healthcare quite affordable at point-of-care
- Private insurance $100 – $250 (₱5,500 – ₱13,750) monthly
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Excellent dining at affordable costs
- Malls, shops, beaches, resorts, and outdoor adventures
- Family-friendly parks and attractions
Cost of Living in Cebu City
- Groceries for Family of 4
- Around $400 – $600 per month (₱22,000 – ₱33,000)
- Dining Out
- The average meal cost is $5 – $8 per person (₱275 – 440) at inexpensive restaurants
- Can dine out affordably 3-4 times per month
Transportation in Cebu City
- Public Transit
- Jeepneys, buses, and taxis for affordable basic transit
- Prone to traffic congestion in urban areas
- Taxis and Ride Sharing
- Grab and taxis are easily available
- Reasonable fares though distance can add up
- Owning a Vehicle
- Cars and gas are cheaper than in Manila but still a substantial expense
- Road quality and parking availability growing issues
Pros and Cons of Living in Cebu City
Pros:
- Lower cost of living especially housing, healthcare
- Laidback tropical lifestyle
- Family-friendly attractions and communities
Cons:
- Infrastructure struggling to handle rapid growth
- Public transportation could be better
- Significant air pollution concerns
Living in Davao For Expats
Overview
- Reputed as one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia
Cost of Living
- Monthly budget for a couple: $800-$1,500 (₱44,000-₱82,500)
- Basic utilities: $80-$120 (₱4,400-₱6,600)
- Groceries for 2: $200-$300 (₱11,000-₱16,500)
- Average restaurant meal: $3-$8 (₱165-₱440)
Housing
- 1-2 bedroom apartments average $250 – $800 (₱13,750-₱44,000)
- Upscale condos $1,000-$2,000+ (₱55,000-₱110,000+)
- Short term rentals from $350+ (₱19,250+)
Healthcare and Hospitals
- High-quality medical facilities and services
- Public healthcare is very affordable
- Private insurance $80-$150 (₱4,400-₱8,250) monthly
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Local cuisine, markets, museums, and parks
- Outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting
- Shopping malls and entertainment options
Dining Out
- Inexpensive restaurant meals $3 – $8 (₱165-₱440)
- Can dine out affordably 4-5 times per month
Transportation in Davao City
- Public jeepneys and buses convenient for most areas
- Grab and taxis are easily available
- Owning a car is affordable but traffic growing
Pros and Cons of Living in Davao City
Pros:
- Very safe for families
- High-quality and affordable healthcare
- Mild weather year-round
Cons:
- Geographically isolated location
- Public infrastructure still developing
- Limited international education options
Living in Puerto Princesa For Expats
Overview
- A laidback city is known to be close to natural attractions like the Puerto Princesa Underground River
Cost of Living
- Monthly budget for a couple: $800-$1,200 (₱44,000-₱66,000)
- Basic utilities: $80-$120 (₱4,400-₱6,600)
- Groceries for 2: $180-$280 (₱9,900-₱15,400)
- Average restaurant meal: $4-$7 (₱220-₱385)
Housing
- 1-2 bedroom apartments average $250-$600 (₱13,750-₱33,000)
- Upscale condos $800-$1,500 (₱44,000-₱82,500)
- Short term rentals from $300+ (₱16,500+)
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Good specialty care but limited facilities
- Public healthcare is affordable but has minimal amenities
- Private insurance $100-$180 (₱5,500-₱9,900) monthly
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Local cuisine and produce markets
- Beaches, islands, diving, parks, and nature tourism
- Limited shopping and entertainment options
Transportation in Puerto Princesa
- Jeepneys, tricycles, and some taxis available
- Most get around by motorcycle or scooter
- Owning a car is convenient for reaching farther areas
Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Princesa
Pros:
- Laidback lifestyle and beaches
- Lower cost of living
- Base for nature tourism
Cons:
- Underdevelopment and lack of infrastructure
- Healthcare access could improve
- Prone to typhoons and storms
Living in Iloilo For Expats
Overview
- Historic provincial capital with a culinary scene and proximity to beaches
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $800-$1,300
- Utilities: $80-$150
- Groceries for 2: $180-$300
- Restaurant meals: $3-$8
Housing
- Apartments $250-$700
- Upscale condos $900-$2,000+
- Short-term rentals $400+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Decent medical facilities and care are available
- Public healthcare is quite affordable
- Private insurance $100-$200
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Vibrant food scene and charming colonial architecture
- Nearby island beaches and diving
- Shopping malls with cinemas
Transportation
- Jeepneys, some buses, tricycles and taxis
- Traffic can be a concern
- Car ownership feasible
Pros and Cons
Pros: Food, history, access to nature
Cons: Prone to wet season storms, underdevelopment
Living in Bacolod For Expats
Overview
- Provincial capital known for festivals, sugar industry, and Spanish heritage
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $650-$1,100
- Utilities: $70-$130
- Groceries for 2: $150-$250
- Restaurant meals: $3-$7
Housing
- Apartments $180-$500
- Upscale condos $700-$1,500
- Short term rentals $300+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Good specialty hospitals
- Affordable public healthcare
- Private insurance $80-$150
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- MassKara Festival and events
- Beaches and diving at Danjugan Island
- New malls and restaurants
Transportation
- Jeepneys, buses, and taxis meet basic needs
- Traffic and parking issues growing
- Car ownership feasible
Pros and Cons
Pros: Festivals and cultural heritage, university town
Cons: Underdevelopment, sugar industry pollution
Living in Dumaguete For Expats
Overview
- University town and popular retirement destination
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $650-$1,000
- Utilities: $60-$100
- Groceries for 2: $140-$220
- Restaurant meals: $2-$5
Housing
- Apartments $180-$450
- Beachside condos $550-$1,200
- Short-term rentals $250+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Good specialty care is available
- Public healthcare meets basic needs
- Private insurance $70-$130
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Laidback provincial lifestyle
- Marine sanctuaries and island hopping
- Limited shopping and dining varieties
Transportation
- Jeepneys, tricycles and some taxis
- Motorbike most convenient option
- Cars useful for farther trips
Pros and Cons
Pros: Retirement spots, universities, accessibility
Cons: Limited amenities, infrastructure gaps
Living in Subic Bay For Expats
Overview
- Former US military base turned into freeport zone with resorts
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $950-$1,450
- Utilities: $100-$180
- Groceries for 2: $240-$400
- Restaurant meals: $5-$10
Housing
- Apartments $300-$800
- Upscale condos $1,000-$2,000+
- Short-term rentals $500+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- International clinics but specialized care limited
- Public healthcare meets the basics
- Private insurance $120-$240
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Beaches, adventure tourism, casinos, duty-free shopping
- Covered walkways and parks
- The high business turnover rate
Transportation
- Shuttles, limited public transit options
- Most get around via car or ride-sharing services
- Car ownership common
Pros and Cons
Pros: Integrated resort amenities, duty-free shopping
Cons: Isolation, infrastructure not fully developed
Living in Palawan, El Nido, Coron for Expats
Overview
- Island paradises appealing to nature tourists and diving enthusiasts
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $800-$1,200
- Utilities: $70-$100
- Groceries for 2: $180-$280
- Restaurant meals: $4-$8
Housing
- Native cottage rentals $250-$500
- Simple apartments $300-$800
- Short-term beach stays $350+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Limited facilities and specialties
- Public healthcare is extremely basic
- Private evacuation insurance vital
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Pristine beaches and island hopping
- World-class diving on coral reefs
- Limited amenities and infrastructure
Transportation
- Habal-habal motorbikes common for shorter distances
- Boats essential for inter-island travel
- No urban public transit options
Pros and Cons
Pros: Untouched natural beauty
Cons: Extremely underdeveloped, inaccessible
Living in Siargao For Expats
Overview
- Renowned surfing destination along Philippine’s eastern seaboard
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $650-$1,000
- Utilities: $50-$100
- Groceries for 2: $140-$220
- Restaurant meals: $3-$6
Housing
- Native beach huts $180-$400
- Apartments $250-$600
- Short-term stays $300+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- Very limited healthcare facilities
- A public system lacking resources
- Private evacuation insurance essential
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Surfing beaches drawing adventurous ex-pats
- Laidback island lifestyle
- Few creature comforts
Transportation
- Habal-habal and tricycles only options
- Some islands only accessible by boat
- No mass transit infrastructure
Pros and Cons Pros: Surfing, tropical nature Cons: Severely underdeveloped, inaccessible
Living in Boracay For Expats
Overview
- White sand beaches and vibrant tourist nightlife
Cost of Living
- Budget for couple: $1,000-$1,500
- Utilities: $100-$150
- Groceries for 2: $220-$320
- Restaurant meals: $5-$10
Housing
- Beachfront huts $350-$700
- Small apartments $400-$900
- Short-term resort stays $500+
Healthcare and Hospitals
- No advanced medical facilities
- Limited public healthcare access
- Mandatory private evacuation insurance
Lifestyle, Culture, and Recreation
- Exceptional sailing, snorkeling, diving
- White sand beaches with beach parties
- Commercialized tourism focus
Transportation
- Tricycles and taxis only public transit
- Walking the main mode along Central Beach
- No mass transport infrastructure
Pros and Cons
Pros: Pristine beaches, nightlife scene
Cons: Expensive, dominated by tourism
Best Places in The Philippines for Families, Singles, Retirees
Tailored recommendations for different lifestyles, catering to families, singles, and retirees.
Best Places in The Philippines for Each Group | Best Places in the Philippines |
|---|---|
| Families | Manila – Kid-friendly attractions, international school choices Cebu – Family-oriented communities, parks Davao – Very safe, top-rated healthcare |
| Singles | Manila – Cosmopolitan lifestyle, nightlife Cebu – Trendy condo living Boracay – Beach parties, water sports |
| Retirees | Dumaguete – Laidback university town Puerto Princesa – Gateway to nature tourism Iloilo – Colonial history and food scene appeal Bacolod – Cultural festivals and university town |
Some additional details:
- Palawan’s El Nido and Coron lack infrastructure but appeal to nature tourists
- Siargao and Subic Bay cater to surfing/adventurous singles
- Healthcare quality and infrastructure maturity should be considered
Tips on Moving Banking and Finding Housing in the Philippines
Here is tips on how to Strategize finding accommodations, navigating the housing market, and making the most of your budget.
| Moving To The Philippines Tips | Tips for Expats | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Finding Housing | – Prioritize accessible locations near public transit. Inspect properties thoroughly before signing – Hire a local real estate agent to help navigate – Negotiate rental prices as rates may be flexible – Opt for furnished properties if shipping items not feasible | MyProperty.ph Lamudi Philippines |
| Shipping Belongings | – Prioritize accessible locations near public transit. Inspect properties thoroughly before signing – Hire a local real estate agent to help navigate – Negotiate rental prices as rates may be flexible – Opt for furnished properties if shipping items is not feasible | |
| Banking and Money Transfers | – Open a Philippine bank account right away – Provide proper documentation and initial deposit – Facilitate transfers through banks vs independent services – Compare services like Wise and Xoom for the best exchange rates – Withdraw pesos from local ATMs to avoid added fees | Wise |
| Visas | – Verify visa requirements based on nationality – Apply for a proper long-term visa before relocating – Provide supporting documents on financial means – Use agencies for help obtaining visas | Bureau of Immigration Visa Guide |
Helpful Resources Including Government, Data and Tourism Boards for the Philippines
Here is a list of local apartment rental websites, Government resources for Visas, Facebook Groups, Tourism Boards, and more to help you with your potential move here
Expat Facebook Groups:
Philippines Tourism Board:
Philippines Data Sites:
Ministry of Culture and the Arts:
Embassy of the Philippines:
Government of the Philippines:
Philippines Local Rental Websites:
- MyProperty
- Lamudi
- For exchanging money use Wise Which is the best option if you are a digital nomad and Expat. a cheaper option to send and receive money internationally rather than exchanging money through other platforms like Paypal, Payoneer costs a lot of money for exchange fees and rates
- Booking Flights: To Find insane flight deals, search on Google Flights, and Skyscanner and choose the monthly option to find the best day to fly.
Conclusion on the Best Neighborhoods in The Philippines
The Philippines offers a diverse range of cities, each with its unique charm. If you’re drawn to the bustling urban lifestyle, the serene beauty of nature, or the rich cultural heritage, there is a city in the archipelago that suits every preference. Choose Manila for a more busy cosmopolitan atmosphere and for a more laid-back and picturesque setting consider cities like Cebu and Davao.
Ultimately, the best city for you may depend on your priorities, but with beautiful landscapes, warm hospitality, and thriving communities, the Philippines stands out as a wonderful place to live and experience a life full of adventure and cultural richness.
Related Articles to The Philippines:
- COST Of Living In Davao City Philippines 2024 [Travel Guide]
- COST Of Living In Bohol Philippines 2024 [TRAVEL GUIDE]
- COST Of Living In Siargao Philippines 2024 [Budget Guide]
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- COST Of Living In El Nido Palawan Philippines 2024 [Budget Guide]
- COST Of Living In Boracay Philippines 2024 [Travel Guide]
- COST Of Living In Cebu Philippines 2024 [Budget Guide]
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