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Living in Philippines: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Philippines | Expat Exchange
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Borocay Island, Philippines

Living in Philippines

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 19, 2024

Summary: The population of Philippines is approximately 108 million people. The largest cities in Philippines are Manila, Quezon City, Davao City, Cebu City, and Zamboanga City. Expats love living in Philippines for its friendly people, beautiful beaches, and tropical climate. Life in Philippines is often described as laid-back and relaxed. Popular foods in Philippines include adobo, sinigang, kare-kare, and lechon. The cons of living in Philippines include the high cost of living, traffic congestion, and air pollution. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and transportation.

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What do I need to know about living in Philippines?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Philippines, they said:

"1. It is important to understand the local culture prior to retirement in the Philippines, as etiquette and lifestyle will differ from other countries. 2. Expats should research the cost of living in the Philippines before settling in, as certain locations will have higher living costs than others. 3. Due to the very humid climate in the Philippines, expats should invest in air-conditioning and fans in order to remain comfortable during hot days. 4. English is widely spoken across the Philippines, though expats may benefit from learning some Tagalog in order to converse with locals more easily. 5. Access to healthcare in the Philippines is generally good, with reliable infrastructure across major cities. 6. Expats may need to apply for a visa prior to retirement in the Philippines, so it is important to check all relevant visa requirements," commented one expat who made the move to Philippines.

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How do I meet people in Philippines?

When we asked people living in Philippines about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Visit high-end malls such as Abrezza or SM Lanang that are frequented by foreigners and wealthier Filipinos," remarked one expat living in Davao, Philippines.

"To get involved right away, join the very active American Women's Club. It's also for men here who have to leave their wives at home in the U.S," wrote one member in Manila.

"Expats in the Philippines often join clubs and activities that cater to their specific interests or hobbies, such as photography, sailing, cooking, and language learning. Expats may also join local sports teams, visit local concerts and events, or volunteer at nearby organizations. Additionally, expats may explore online forums and social media networks to connect with like-minded people. Through these networks, expats may discover meet-up groups and expat clubs, which provide opportunities for socializing, networking, and learning more about their new city and culture," remarked one expat who made the move to Philippines.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is life like in Philippines?

When we asked people living in Philippines what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"I live outside of Butuan in the province area on Mindanao, it's very nice and quiet. My asawa and I are taking short trips around Asia. We just got back from Indonesia a few months ago and will be going to South Korea. Our electric bill runs around 4,000 php to 4,500 php (80-90 USD) a month, internet - 1,700 php (about 34.00 USD) a month. Would love to hear from others on how they are doing. I'm 73 and ready to take on the world Lol," wrote a member in Philippines.

"On the weekends most people go out shopping in the huge malls to socialize and then go out to eat in one of the many restaurants and fast food places. Along with the Filipino restaurants, there are franchises from every corner of the world, so there is something for everyone. Everyone goes out Friday night after work, so there are traffic jams all over Manila," commented one expat who made the move to Manila.

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Is there a lot of crime in Philippines?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Live in a highend subdivision that INFORCES its rules and regulations. There is a reason EVER single house has an 8 ft wall and barbed wire around the top.," explained one expat living in Davao, Philippines.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Philippines accepting of differences?

"Religous, primarily Catholic. Church and religion are an integral part of life. They don't separate religion from work life," commented one expat who made the move to Manila.

"The Philippines is a country with a diverse population and culture. There is a substantial mixture of ethnic groups, religions, and languages in the country. People in the Philippines are usually very accepting of cultural, religious, and national differences. The Philippines also has a vibrant LGBT community that is accepted and embraced by the rest of society. In general, the people of the Philippines are tolerant and welcoming of different backgrounds and beliefs," remarked one expat living in Philippines.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the schools in Philippines like?

"Since January of 2012, the school has had a metamorphosis, evolving into a first-class international school.....If you want to challenge your child academically, giving them the opportunity of a well-rounded education, you need to visit Noblesse International School...," said one parent with children at Noblesse International School in Angeles.

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Is the cost of living in Philippines high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Philippines, they wrote:

"The cost of living in the Philippines can vary depending on the city and lifestyle of each individual, but in general prices are considered to be generally low. Groceries and everyday items can be found at very reasonable prices compared to other countries in the region. Many foreigners find that they can easily afford basic necessities, such as housing, transportation, and food, while still having money left over to explore the many attractions and recreational activities that the Philippines has to offer," said one expat in Philippines.

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"One can live on a tight budget when shopping at local markets, buying local produce. Affordable accommodation can be easily found and a 2 bedroom house can be rented at US 200 dollars a month," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City.

"The cost of living in Philippines is generally considered affordable compared to many other countries. However, the cost of housing, transportation and restaurant meals may be higher in big cities like Manila, Cebu and Davao City compared to the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Philippines is approximately $250-$350 USD per month, while the rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment is approximately $400-$600 USD per month. The cost of dining out at a moderately priced restaurant in Philippines is around $15 USD per person," said one expat.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Philippines?

When we asked people living in Philippines about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Swimming can be done in the public pool of a sports stadium rather close to where I am living. Golfing in a nearby golf course by members of the golf club. Hiking in a public park nearby," said an expat in Manila.

"There's a great golf club and driving range in the CutCut area and it's patronized by expats and locals alike. All top hotels have swimming pools that offer daily rates to casual visitors and many have a kids play area. All suburbs have a football/ sports pitches, but are not always well maintained. Unfortunately, there are few sports clubs," remarked one expat in Angeles City.

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What is the weather like in Philippines?

"It's almost always hot, but it does cool down in the evenings. Typhoons blow in on occasion, but there are always public warnings to keep the public informed of the dangers," remarked one expat living in Angeles City.

"The weather in the Philippines is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. The country experiences a wet season from May to October, with heavy rains and occasional typhoons. The dry season runs from November to April, with cooler temperatures and less rain," said one expat living in Philippines.

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Are there good restaurants in Philippines?

"One of the most popular restaurants in the Philippines is the Gerry's Grill. Located in various cities across the country, Gerry's Grill is known for its Filipino-style seafood dishes, such as grilled squid, shrimp, and fish. The restaurant also serves a variety of other dishes, including pork, beef, and chicken. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in the Philippines is the Max's Restaurant. Founded in 1945, Max's is a Filipino-style fried chicken restaurant that has become a national favorite. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fried chicken, pork, beef, and seafood. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Finally, the Jollibee restaurant chain is a popular choice for Filipino diners. Founded in 1975, Jollibee is a fast-food restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, including burgers, fried chicken, and spaghetti. The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," mentioned one expat inPhilippines.

"All hotels have nice restaurants and local canteens offer inexpensive dishes. Korea Town has a wide choice of Korean, Japanese, Italian, Filipino restaurants and offer the best service in town," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City, Philippines.

"There are lots of restaurants selling local and international food. Bars and discos offer a wide range of entertainment until the early morning," remarked one expat living in Manila.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Philippines?

" Shopping for almost anything is plentiful, in excellent malls. Malls here can compete globally with both the Mall of America and the Dubai Mall. One HUGE caution. Pricing here is just as expensive as those malls. You can certainly shop cheaper in the smaller stores and in the provinces off the mainland, such as Ozamis and La Nao Del Norte where I am visiting, but the options are much less, though fresh veggies are in abundance. Next caution, many provinces do not accept credit cards, even for hotel stays. No such problem in Manila (for the most part). Lastly, the green peas here are not tasty, no lima beans in sight, and recently due to a corruption scam at highest levels no onions were available for a month," remarked one expat in Philippines.

"Shopping can be done in malls or markets. They are located in practically all cities in Metropolitan Manila," wrote one expat living in Manila.

"There are large supermarkets dotted all around the city and there are numerous markets with fresh produce. Shopping malls, with all the latest gear, as well as nice affordable gear are found in most areas," commented one expat who moved to Angeles City.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Philippines?

"Most passports are given a three month visa on arrival and one can arrange longer stays through the many visa agents found in most hotels," mentioned one expat inAngeles City.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Philippines?

"There are a lot of health insurance choices on offer and it is highly recommended to go on one of them. To be without cash and medical insurance may become a death warrant for the "Unprepared"," remarked one expat living in Angeles City.

"We do not have health insurance, except for PhilHealth through my husband's work. It pays for hospital stays, but there are a lot of out-of-pocket costs. However, these are not high - we are fortunate in that we have not needed any kind of major medical treatments. Something like advanced-stage cancer would have to be handled in Manila and would cost us in the realm of USD 5000 - 10,000, I'd estimate. Primary health care, like bandaging of wounds, bronchitis, and the like is free to all comers," said one expat living in Bontoc.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Borocay Island, Philippines
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