Moving to Davao, Philippines
Last updated on Jun 25, 2023
Summary: Many expats are attracted to Davao, Philippines for its low cost of living, friendly locals, and beautiful natural scenery. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse culture, and excellent healthcare system. Before moving to Davao, it is important to research the local laws and customs, as well as the cost of living and job opportunities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with living in a large city, such as crime and traffic. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local climate and weather patterns, as well as the availability of public transportation.
What do I need to know before moving to Davao?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Davao, they said:
"Davao is a vibrant city located in the southern Philippines. It is known for its friendly locals, diverse culture, and beautiful scenery. Before moving to Davao, expats should research the cost of living, as it is generally lower than in other parts of the country. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and customs, as well as the language barrier. It is also important to be aware of the local climate, as Davao experiences both wet and dry seasons. Finally, expats should make sure to have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order before their move," said one expat in Davao.
"You can view homes on line! Contracts are usually in English, Most people are polite here. So be polite. Put yourself in their place. They are trying to make a living, too. Choose a place with security. When you find a side of town you prefer, drive around the neighborhood. Our first year everyone on our street had dogs and chickens. Very noisy at night. Subdivisions and condos have animal laws so you can get some sleep," remarked one expat who made the move to Davao .
How do I find a place to live in Davao?
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About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Davao?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Davao?
- Will I be able to find a job in Davao?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Davao appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Davao?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Davao accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Davao like?
- How are healthcare services in Davao?
- What are medical services in Davao like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Davao?
- What are emergency services like in Davao?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Davao?
- How are local medical facilities in Davao?
- As a foreigner living in Davao, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?