Davao, Philippines
Last updated on Jun 25, 2023
Summary: The approximate population of Davao, Philippines is 1.6 million people. People describe Davao as a vibrant and bustling city with a rich cultural heritage. Expats love living in Davao for its friendly locals, affordable cost of living, and its tropical climate. The weather in Davao is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit. The average cost of living in Davao for an expat is around $1,000 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400 USD per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month.
What do I need to know about living in Davao?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Davao, they said:
"Before retiring in Davao, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally lower than in other parts of the country. They should also research the local culture and customs, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local climate, which is generally hot and humid year-round. Finally, expats should research the local job market and the availability of recreational activities in the area," explained one expat living in Davao, Philippines.
"The best is to have some work over internet from outside the country. It is more an investment country over here than a job finding country," said one expat in Davao.

Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
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What do I need to know before moving to Davao?

Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
GET QUOTES
Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Davao
- Cost of Living in Davao
- Essential Guide to the Health System in Davao
- The Essential Guide to Davao, Philippines
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Philippines
- Best Places to Live in Philippines
- Real Estate in Philippines
- 10 Best Places to Live on the Coast in Philippines
- Pros and Cons of Living in Philippines 2023
- 2023 Guide to Moving to Philippines