Dumaguete City, Philippines
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Dumaguete City, Philippines. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Dumaguete City?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Dumaguete City, they said:
"Expats considering retirement in Dumaguete City should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living is relatively low compared to Western countries, making it an attractive option for retirees. However, healthcare facilities may not be as advanced or readily available as in their home country, so it's important to have a comprehensive health insurance plan. The city is known for its friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and relaxed lifestyle, but it's also important to be aware of the cultural differences and respect local customs and traditions. English is widely spoken in Dumaguete City, which can make the transition easier for expats. The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year, and a rainy season from June to November. Expats should be prepared for this type of weather and take necessary precautions during the rainy season. The Philippines has a relatively high crime rate, although Dumaguete City is generally considered safe. Still, expats should take standard precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings. In terms of visa requirements, the Philippines offers a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) which allows unlimited stay and multiple entries, making it an ideal choice for retirees. Lastly, while Dumaguete City offers a range of amenities, it's not as developed as some other cities in the Philippines or Asia. Therefore, some Western comforts may not be available, and infrastructure such as roads and internet connectivity may not be as reliable," said one expat in Dumaguete City.

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What do I need to know before moving to Dumaguete City?
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 do I need to know before moving to Dumaguete City?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Dumaguete City?
- What is the average cost of housing in Dumaguete City?
- How do I meet people in Dumaguete City?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Dumaguete City?
- What should I pack when moving to Dumaguete City?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Dumaguete City?
- Will I be able to find a job in Dumaguete City?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Dumaguete City?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Dumaguete City?
- What is the social scene like in Dumaguete City?
- What advice to expats in Dumaguete City have about housing?
- What are medical services in Dumaguete City like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Dumaguete City?
- Is the cost of living in Dumaguete City high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Dumaguete City?
- Why do people move to Dumaguete City?