Rewire Abroad Logo

Davao, Philippines
Capital City

Follows Philippines Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$950
Retiree Score
98.0
Safety Index
68.0
Healthcare
102 facilities

Davao may boast a population of 1.8 million, but the bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents. While the city touts itself as a regional economic hub, the heavy tax burden and occasional unrest make it a challenging environment for the uninitiated. The tropical climate, with its abundant rainfall, can also be a shock for newcomers. On the plus side, Davao's diverse culture, from its Chinese and Japanese influences to its indigenous tribes, offers a rich tapestry for those willing to navigate the city's complexities. Overall, Davao is best suited for seasoned expats or Filipinos seeking professional opportunities in Mindanao, but may be daunting for the casual visitor.

Can I afford Davao?

$

Davao

You could save

2,050/mo

Savings Rate68%

Monthly Costs

Rent $450
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$500

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
68/100
Retiree Score
(i)
98/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
40/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Philippines Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
68
Safety
102
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$0
Chicken (1kg) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $76
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $113
Mobile Plan (mo) $32
Gym (mo) *$39
Cinema Ticket $5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $450
1BR Outside (mo) *$186
3BR Center (mo) $900
3BR Outside (mo) *$363

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Damosa, Matina, Lanang
Best For
retirees

Expat Life Notes

A major hub in Mindanao known for its relative order and safety compared to other southern cities.

Pros

  • ✓ Affordable fresh produce
  • ✓ Vibrant fruit and food scene
  • ✓ Low crime rate

Cons

  • ✗ Limited nightlife options
  • ✗ Frequent traffic congestion
  • ✗ Strict local ordinances

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
23°C°C - 32°C°C
Annual Rainfall
—
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
—

Also Consider

Roxas, PhilippinesSan Pablo, PhilippinesAttractiveness Score: 82.8Curuçá, BrazilLiving in Curuçá, Brazil offers a quiet, rural lifestyle centered around fishing and nature. Best for those seeking isolation, not urban amenities.Slutsk, BelarusLiving in Slutsk offers a quiet, low-cost lifestyle in Belarus. Close to Minsk but far from the hustle, it’s ideal for those seeking simplicity and affordabilit

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Davao

Click any question to expand the answer.

Davao has a population of approximately 1,848,947 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,125 per month in Davao, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $450/month.

The nearest airport to Davao is DVO, approximately 8km away.

Davao is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 68.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

Share This Guide