The Global Expat Hub
Philippines
English everywhere, a famously warm culture and the cheapest retirement visa in Asia.
Your plan for Philippines checklist · timeline · cost breakdown
Estimates for one adult before ongoing rent and living costs; couples and families scale up. Tap a plan for the full breakdown.
Top cities for expats in Philippines
Costs and character vary significantly within Philippines. Here are the cities our readers compare most.
The capital — full infrastructure, English everywhere and a large expat scene
Second city with beaches nearby — popular with retirees and remote workers
Safe, clean and affordable — the most livable city in the Philippines
University town and retiree favourite — small, friendly and very affordable
Philippines by the numbers editorial estimates in US dollars
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🌤️ Climate
Tropical; dry Dec–May, wet Jun–Nov. Typhoon season peaks Jul–Oct in the north; Mindanao is largely spared.
Mean temperatures for Manila.
🌧️ Rain & snow
Rainfall about 2,300 mm (91 in) a year.
Snow None.
⚖️ The law
Official legislationThe LawPhil Project (Arellano Law) ↗
OverviewLaw of Philippines on Wikipedia ↗
Driving On the right. Licence rules →
🏛️ Taxes
Property tax RPT 1–2% of assessed value (assessed well below market).
Local & regional income tax None; national 0–35%.
🎓 University
Public universities tuition-free for Filipinos; private $2–6k/yr.
📱 Phone & eSIM
Carriers Globe, Smart, DITO.
Average cost Local SIM or eSIM with generous data about $10/month; a 30-day travel eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Saily and similar) around $15 for 10 GB.
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🎁 Schemes to attract expats
- Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) from age 50
- Digital Nomad visa
- Tax-free foreign pensions
- English-speaking; US retirees welcomed
Figures are national averages for planning, not quotes; big cities run higher. Tax schemes change often and carry conditions. Verify before you rely on them.
Official sources for Philippines embassies, warnings, law and reference
Government, intergovernmental and reference sites only; no reviews or opinion. Links open in a new tab.
Ratings & warnings independent
Follows your Mid-range tier partner listings match your budget
Services & daily life one labelled partner per page
Life in Philippines faith, wellbeing, shopping and play
Holidays & festivalsNational holidays, closures and the festivals worth planning aroundSearch for jobs for free, or post a job — free.
Roles open to foreigners in Philippines: remote work you can do from Manila, and in-person jobs with employers who hire from abroad. Searching for and posting expat jobs is always free, for job seekers and employers alike. Every listing stays live for 60 days.
Latest listings. Example listings shown until the first real posts go live.
See all jobs in Philippines and post a job →
In the meantime, search these trusted remote job boards
Free to use. These are independent sites we like; opening in a new tab. Come back to post your own role here — posting is always free.
Frequently asked questions
Is Philippines safe for expats?
Philippines scores 54 out of 100 for safety on The Global Expat Hub, and 71 out of 100 for liveability — #15 of the 52 countries we cover. The full breakdown, including official warnings and regional differences, is on the safety page linked from this page.
What is the cost of living in Philippines?
The Global Expat Hub estimates a mid-range lifestyle in Philippines from around $1,400 per month. The figures are national averages for planning, not quotes — big cities run higher — and this page breaks costs down by tier and city.
Can I move to Philippines?
Yes. The routes and incentives The Global Expat Hub lists for Philippines include: Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) from age 50; digital Nomad visa; tax-free foreign pensions; english-speaking; US retirees welcomed. Step-by-step visa and residency detail is on the visa pages linked from this page.
What is the best city in Philippines for expats?
The top cities for expats in Philippines profiled on this page are Manila, Cebu City and Davao. Manila is the capital. Each city profile includes typical rent and character to help you compare.