The Philippines is quickly rising as one of the most attractive destinations to move to for expats, digital nomads, and early retirees in Southeast Asia. With its sprawling archipelago of over 7,500 islands, warm hospitality, and affordable lifestyle, it offers both adventure and comfort. If you are considering moving to the Philippines, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for life in this tropical paradise.
Things to Know about Moving to the Philippines
The Allure of the Philippines
The country’s geography alone is enough to entice newcomers. Imagine hopping from one pristine beach to another, exploring lush jungles, or diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Beyond its natural beauty, the Philippines is known for its welcoming communities, culture, and growing infrastructure, making it easy for foreigners to settle in. The only downside is that if you are leaving loved ones stateside, it may be harder to visit regularly, as the average one-way flight takes 20 hours.
Weather
The Philippines has a tropical climate, meaning hot summers and a pleasant dry season. However, being located in the Pacific’s Ring of Fire, the country is prone to natural events like typhoons, flooding, and occasional earthquakes. The dry season, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, runs from November to May. And the rainy season, a popular time to plan getaways and home visits, lasts from June to October.
Cost of Living
One of the biggest draws of moving to the Philippines is the low cost of living. With the average cost of living in the Philippines being roughly 76% less than in the United States, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
The biggest expense is housing, closely followed by utilities, the rates for which are the second-highest in Southeast Asia. Although a modern apartment with amenities in a nice neighborhood can set you back only around $750 per month, your utilities can add up to match over half of that without inverters.
Food and dining are affordable if you are not buying imported items and eating out at international venues regularly. With overall lower expenses, you’ll have more opportunities to explore activities, try new things, and travel, allowing for a livelier lifestyle.
Work Opportunities
The Philippines is an excellent destination for those who work online. With reliable internet access in major cities and a growing community of digital nomads, it’s easy to maintain your career while enjoying a tropical lifestyle. Just don’t get carried away in all the fun. Many expats choose to base themselves in Manila, Cebu, or Siargao, where coworking spaces and cafes cater to remote professionals.
If you are seeking company employment, there are opportunities in manufacturing, technology, and the booming business process outsourcing industry, which has made the Philippines a global leader in customer service and back-office operations. Whether you’re freelancing, running your own business, or looking for local work, the country has a range of options.
Housing
Finding a home for rent in the Philippines is straightforward and quick, involving minimal paperwork. There are apartments and houses available at competitive prices, most of which are found on Facebook. You can choose between fully furnished units, unfurnished units, or semi-furnished units that include essential appliances like a refrigerator and washing machine, but not furniture. Modern condominiums come with amenities such as gyms, pools, and coworking spaces. However, it’s worth noting that noise can be a factor in many neighborhoods. Taking time to visit properties in person can help you find a home that suits your lifestyle.
Transportation
The Philippines is very car-centric. Traffic congestion can be severe, especially in Manila. Public transport options include jeepneys, buses, and trains. Many expats tend to rely on ride-hailing apps like Grab, which is an affordable and convenient way to get around.
Healthcare
Access to good healthcare in the Philippines varies by location. Private hospitals in major cities are excellent and often more affordable than their Western counterparts. If you are a retiree or planning on moving to the Philippines with family, base yourself in a city where private hospitals are close by. Many expats invest in private health insurance to have access to top-tier facilities and specialists.
Education
If you are moving to the Philippines with kids, you will find international schools offering globally recognized curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British and American systems. These schools are concentrated in Manila and Cebu. Not only do these institutions provide a familiar education path to your children, but also high-quality education.
Language
Language is not a barrier for expats in the Philippines, unlike in other Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand. While Tagalog is the official language, it is just one of many dialects spoken across the archipelago. This is why English is the official language in business and political settings. Therefore, it’s easy for foreigners to communicate, even on topics that usually would require a translator in other countries. In fact, the Philippines is one of the largest English-speaking nations in Asia, which adds to its appeal.
Culture
Filipino culture is warm, hospitable, and family oriented. You will find the environment is kid-friendly. Social life in big cities revolves around malls. They serve as shopping, dining, and entertainment hubs, where you can escape the heat. Karaoke is a national pastime, so don’t be surprised if you hear singing here and there. If you love to travel, there are plenty of postcard-perfect islands within the country, and it’s easy to explore other parts of Asia.
A couple of areas that will require adjustment are timeliness and consistency. Time is viewed flexibly in the Philippines and punctuality is not strict. You’ll need to be patient and adapt to the laid-back lifestyle that comes with living in a tropical destination. For example, opening hours and conveniences such as ordering food may not always be consistent, particularly in smaller cities and islands. Internet stability can also be an issue in areas with weaker infrastructure.
Visas
For those who want to do a scouting trip and are not ready to commit, the Philippines has one of the most flexible tourist visas out there. It can be extended up to 36 months without leaving the country. Once you are ready to settle in, here are some residency options you can consider:
- Digital Nomad Visa: a legal long-stay pathway for remote workers able to show proof of income from employment outside the Philippines. The visa is valid for 12 months and can be renewed. Holders are not taxed on foreign income.
- Retirement Visa: administered to applicants who meet age requirements and can make a deposit, which can later be used for condo purchases or investments. The retirement visa comes with multiple entry privileges and zero tax on pensions.
- Investor Visa: available to those able to invest in Philippine businesses or real estate.
Places to Move to in the Philippines
Manila
The capital city offers convenience, amenities, and international schools. Within Manila, Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is the most popular area due to its walkability, amenities, and a strong sense of community.
Cebu
The sixth most populated city in the country, Cebu City, is the perfect middle ground between urban living and proximity to nature. It’s a great option for families and remote professionals.
Siargao
Known as a digital nomad hub, Siargao is the ideal destination for a laid-back island lifestyle, surf, and a community of like-minded people. If this is your end goal, we recommend starting in Manila or Cebu to acclimatize.
Are You Ready to Move to the Philippines?
Moving to the Philippines offers a combination of affordable living, adventure, and community. Whether you are a digital nomad seeking a tropical base, a retiree looking for a slower pace of life, or a family wanting to maximize their budget, the Philippines has something for everyone.
If you are ready to make the move to the Philippines, creating a plan to ship your household belongings is the next step. Read our resources and reach out to Arpin for a free quote and consultation.
