Moving to Manila, Philippines

Moving to Manila

Last updated on Feb 11, 2022

Summary: Many people move to Manila for its tropical climate and low-cost, urban lifestyle (it's one of the world's most densely populated cities). There's a lot to know before making the move and foreigners living in Manila have loads of advice for newcomers. Did you know that foreigners in the Philippines can only own condos?

Allianz Care International Health Insurance

What do I need to know before moving to Manila?

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

"Do your research and visit various areas before you commit. The laws here are very different so only Philipine people can own the ground with exception to condos. Look for schools, medical and grocery store locations that are fairly close to where you live," explained one expat living in Valenzuela City, Philippines.

"Don't be scared to move to Manila. It is not nearly as scary as people would have you believe. I am more scared wandering around deserted Sydney streets at night than in Manila. Of course be sensible. Dress modestly, don't wear expensive jewellery or watches etc. Look out for pickpockets on the trains - I got a wallet with a chain after my introduction to pickpockets on the LRT! You can't really live an insulated western life so try to fit in with the locals wherever you can. For example, jeepneys are often convenient, NOT scary and you really get to live the local life. Learning how to get around teaches you a lot which you will find valuable in your time here. Smile a lot! It really opens doors," said another expat in Manila.

How do I find a place to live in Manila?

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Some of Betsy's more popular articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Italy, 12 Things to Know Before Moving to The Dominican Republic and the Living in Panama Guide. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

International Health Insurance

Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote

International Health Insurance

Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote

Guide to Living in Manila, Philippines
Manila, Philippines: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Manila

Philippines Forum
Join our Philippines forum to meet other people living in Manila, Philippines.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Manila.

Healthcare in Manila, Philippines

Expats and global nomads in Manila share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Philippines, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.

Moving to Manila, Philippines

Expats offer advice about everything you need to know before moving to Manila: what to bring (and what to leave behind), how to find housing and more.

Pros and Cons of Living in Manila, Philippines

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats and digital nomads have to say about the pros and cons of living in Manila, Philippines.

Homes for Sale & Apartments for Rent in Manila

Real estate listings in Manila. Plus, advice about renting and buying real estate in Manila

Retiring in Manila

Retiring in Manila, Philippines.

Expats Talk about Living in Manila

Expats share their experiences living in Manila, Philippines and offer advice about meeting people, schools and more.

Expat Report: Moving to Valenzuela City

An expat in Valensuela City, Philippines says to do your research and visit various areas before you commit to one location. Look for schools, medical and grocery store locations that are fairly close to where you live.

12 Tips for Living in Manila, Philippines

An expat talks about living in Manila, Philippines. He explains that mainly move to Manila for the low cost of living, friendly people and warm climate.

Expat Report: Culture Shock in Metro Manila

A Dutch woman who moved to the Philippines 9 years ago. Initially, she worked as a housemother with 19 former street children in her care. She learned Tagalog. For her, the most challenging aspects of living in the Philippines are the heat, traffic and lack of privacy.

International Health Insurance

Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote

International Health Insurance

Get a quote for health insurance from our partner, Allianz Care.
Get a Quote

5 Tips For Living In Manila

Expats in Manila have reported many of the same themes since the inception of Expat Exchange. Read some basic facts and tips about this Philippine city (and metro area) on the island of Luzon.

6 Best Places to Live in The Philippines

With its low cost of living, beautiful beaches, bustling cities and hot climate, expats have been flocking to the Philippines for years. Here are six of the best places for expats to live in the Philippines.

5 Great Places to Retire in Asia

We asked expats and searched our forums for recommendations about where to retire in Asia. We pinpointed countries with affordable costs of living and have five great retirement locations. Please add your recommendations in the comments section!