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Bacolod City, Philippines

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 02, 2023

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Bacolod City, Philippines. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.

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What do I need to know about living in Bacolod City?

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

"Expats considering retirement in Bacolod 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 official language is Filipino, but English is widely spoken, making communication easier for expats. The city is known for its friendly locals, vibrant festivals, and delicious food, offering a rich cultural experience. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from June to November, and a dry season from December to May. Expats should be prepared for high humidity and occasional typhoons. Bacolod City has a slower pace of life compared to other major cities in the Philippines, which can be a positive or negative depending on personal preference. Public transportation is readily available, but traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Safety is a concern in any city, and while Bacolod City is generally safe, expats should still exercise caution, especially at night. Finally, it's important to understand the visa requirements for retiring in the Philippines. The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) is a popular option for many expats, but it requires a deposit and has certain age and income requirements," commented one expat who made the move to Bacolod City.

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Get a free international health insurance quote from our partner, Allianz Care, whose plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Allianz's flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
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What do I need to know before moving to Bacolod City?

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.

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Allianz Care Health Insurance

Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
GET A QUOTE

Allianz Care International Health InsuranceAllianz Care Health Insurance

Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
GET A QUOTE

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