Pros and Cons of Living in Manila, Philippines

Pros and Cons of Living in Manila

Last updated on Apr 20, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Manila, Philippines include its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and friendly people. The city is also home to a wide variety of attractions, from historical sites to modern shopping malls. Additionally, the cost of living in Manila is relatively low compared to other major cities in the region. On the other hand, the cons of living in Manila include its high levels of air pollution, traffic congestion, and crime. The city is also prone to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.

What are the pros and cons of living in Manila?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Manila responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the affordability of living in Manila. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in the region, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the city offers a wide variety of cultural experiences, from the vibrant nightlife to the unique cuisine. Expats and digital nomads also enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the traffic and pollution in Manila to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Tagalog," said one expat in Manila.

"One hour from Manila airport. Plenty of excellent supermarkets. And a few good restaurants," remarked one expat in Manila.

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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.