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Live in the Philippines: Advantages, disadvantages and costs
Learn what it means to live in Philippines as a foreigner, from advantages and disadvantages to healthcare, lifestyle, and daily life.
Wondering what it’s like to live in the Philippines as a foreigner? With more than 7,600 islands, the country is famous for its friendly people, affordable lifestyle, and growing digital scene. It is an attractive choice for digital nomads, long term travelers, and anyone dreaming of a tropical pace of life. And since English is an official language, settling in is much easier for people from all over the world.
This guide will walk you through what life in the Philippines is really like. We will cover quality of life, education, healthcare, work opportunities, and the main pros and cons for foreigners thinking about staying for a while or moving permanently.
Quality of life in the Philippines
Like any country, the Philippines has its own particular features when it comes to quality of life. It offers a diverse healthcare system and an education model based on K-12.
The Philippine healthcare system
The healthcare system in the Philippines is a mix of public and private services. Public coverage is provided through PhilHealth, the national health insurance program. As of January 2024, employees contribute 5% of their monthly base salary, according to PhilHealth Circular No. 2019-0009. Eligible foreign residents can also enroll in this program.
If you want top-notch medical care in cities like Manila or Cebu, private hospitals such as St. Luke’s Medical Center or Makati Medical Center are a good choice. They offer advanced services and shorter waiting times compared to public facilities.
The main recommendation for foreigners in the Philippines is to get international health insurance that covers specialized treatments and medical transfers if needed. Some rural areas still face challenges with healthcare access and limited emergency resources. To learn about the best international insurance options in Asia, check out our related article.
What is the security situation like in the Philippines?
Safety in the Philippines varies by region. Cities like Davao and Makati are generally considered safe, with safety indexes of 72.5 and 61.3 respectively, according to Numbeo. However, other areas, such as parts of Mindanao, come with travel warnings from foreign governments due to insurgent activity.
Across the country, the Philippines has a safety index of 57.2, indicating a moderate level of security. Residents and visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on valuables, using reliable transportation, and walking with others in less busy areas.
Education system in the Philippines
The Philippines follows a K-12 education system, extending basic schooling to 13 years. In August 2023, the Department of Education introduced the Matatag Curriculum, which streamlines the number of learning areas from seven to five and removes the mother tongue as a separate subject. The new curriculum will be gradually implemented between 2024 and 2028.
For families moving with children, cities like Manila, Quezon City, and Taguig offer a wide selection of private and international schools teaching in English, with American, British, or International Baccalaureate curricula. In addition, the University of the Philippines ranks among the top 100 universities in Asia, according to the QS Asia 2024 rankings.
Economy and cost of living in the Philippines
The Philippines has an emerging economy that grew by 5.6% in 2023 and is projected to reach 6.0% in 2025, according to the Asian Development Bank. However, wages remain low by Western standards, with the minimum monthly salary in Manila around 10,000 Philippine pesos, or roughly $180.
One of the biggest draws for foreigners is the low cost of living. Manila is around 56% cheaper than Madrid, according to Expatistan. A furnished one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between $325 and $540 per month, and expenses for food, transport, and utilities are much lower than in European cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Berlin.
Connectivity and internet
The Philippines has made significant improvements to its digital infrastructure in recent years. By early 2025, around 97.5 million people were online, accounting for 83.8% of the population. Major providers like Globe, Smart and DITO offer a range of affordable data plans.
If you work remotely, it’s best to have fiber optic internet at home or stay somewhere with a reliable connection. Digital payment apps like GCash and Maya have also become widely used, making daily transactions much simpler.
Stay connected in the Philippines with Holafly
To stay online as soon as you arrive, Holafly provides eSIMs for the Philippines with unlimited data for the duration you need. You can set it up at the airport, skipping roaming fees and the trouble of finding a local SIM.
If you plan to stay in the Philippines for a while and explore other Asian countries, Holafly’s monthly plans are a great choice. They keep you connected, let you share data with other devices, and eliminate worries about roaming, Wi-Fi, or mobile data wherever you are. Plus, you can use the same eSIM in over 170 destinations!
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
What are the advantages of living in the Philippines?
Living in the Philippines as a foreigner offers a unique mix of benefits, from the warmth of its people and job opportunities to stunning natural landscapes worth exploring. Let’s take a closer look at the main advantages of settling in this Asian archipelago.
1. Their hospitality and a community that welcomes foreigners
Filipinos are famously warm and welcoming, which helps foreigners settle in. The mix of Malay, Spanish, American, and other Asian influences creates a diverse and friendly environment. With English widely spoken, adapting and communicating is also much easier.
2. Its low cost of living
Compared with many Western countries, the cost to live in the Philippines is much lower. Housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are all more affordable. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in central Manila rents for $450 to $630 per month, while in cities like Cebu or Davao, prices usually range from $270 to $450.
Monthly food expenses for one person typically range from $145 to $220, including groceries and occasional meals out. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about $3.60, while a dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant can reach around $18.
Public transportation in the Philippines is affordable and efficient. Traditional jeepneys start at around $0.18 for a short ride, and monthly passes for public transit in Manila cost about $27.
3. Economic and employment opportunities in the Philippines
Economic growth in key sectors
In October 2024, foreign direct investment in the Philippines rose 50.2% compared with the previous year, reaching $1.02 billion. This growth was driven mainly by debt instruments (60.7%) and equity capital (34.1%) and reflects investor confidence in sectors like business process outsourcing, technology, and renewable energy.
Incentives for foreign investment
The Philippine government has introduced the CREATE Act (Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises), which lowers the corporate tax rate from 25% to 20% for companies registered with local investment agencies. Businesses in Special Economic Zones also benefit from an extra two years of tax breaks, making it easier to launch and expand operations.
4. Natural life and tropical climate
The Philippines, made up of over 7,000 islands, offers a stunning mix of landscapes, from pristine beaches and green mountains to colorful coral reefs. Its tropical climate makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities like diving, hiking, and surfing all year round, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
5. Active expat community
Cities like Manila and Cebu have active expat communities, offering social clubs, events, and support networks that make it easier for newcomers to settle in. These communities provide opportunities to build both personal and professional connections, enhancing your quality of life while living abroad.
Disadvantages of living in the Philippines as a foreigner
Now, let’s take a look at the key factors to consider when deciding whether the Philippines is a good place to live, either temporarily or permanently.
1. Concern about the risk of natural disasters
Due to its location, the Philippines is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions. The country sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a tectonic zone stretching along the Pacific Ocean coastline. This region is home to around 90% of the world’s earthquakes and 75% of both active and dormant volcanoes.
Previous natural disasters in the Philippines have claimed the lives of more than 6,000 people. One well-known example is Typhoon Haiyan in 2013.
2. Poor infrastructure and public services
In many areas, especially outside the major cities, infrastructure can be limited. This includes poorly maintained roads, frequent power outages, and irregular water supply. On top of that, traffic in cities like Manila can be heavy, which may affect daily life.
3. Air quality and increasing pollution
Air pollution is a major issue in urban areas, especially in Manila. Vehicle emissions and waste burning contribute to dangerous pollution levels, which can impact people’s respiratory health.
4. Unequal healthcare system
While major cities have high-quality hospitals, medical facilities in rural areas may lack resources and trained staff. Private healthcare can also be expensive for foreigners without adequate insurance.
Frequently asked questions about living in the Philippines
Safety varies by region. Cities like Manila and Cebu are generally considered safe, while some southern areas, such as parts of Mindanao, may pose risks due to criminal activity.
The cost of living in the Philippines is lower than in many Western countries. With $1,500, you can cover your basic expenses and still have some money left over.
There are several visa options for foreigners who wish to reside in the Philippines, including work visas, business visas, and digital nomad visas.
The healthcare system in the Philippines is a mix of public and private services. Private hospitals in major cities provide high-quality care, while public facilities can be crowded and under-resourced.
Filipinos are famously warm and welcoming to newcomers. Since English is widely spoken, getting around and connecting with locals is much easier.
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Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍
