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General Santos, Philippines

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$800
Retiree Score
97.0
Safety Index
64.5
Healthcare
20 facilities

With a population of 722,059, General Santos is a bustling urban center, but don't be fooled - the bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the dry tropical climate takes some getting used to. The city's key industries are agribusiness and fishing, centered around the large Makar Wharf. While it boasts modern infrastructure and amenities, the constant traffic and occasional security concerns are the price of living in this regional commercial hub. General Santos may appeal to those seeking economic opportunity, but the challenges of daily life here are not to be underestimated.

Can I afford General Santos?

$

General Santos

You could save

2,200/mo

Savings Rate73%

Monthly Costs

Rent $350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
73/100
Retiree Score
(i)
97/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Philippines Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
65
Safety
20
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
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) *$4
Meal (Mid-range) $60
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $33
Mobile Plan (mo) $29
Gym (mo) *$18
Cinema Ticket $5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $350
1BR Outside (mo) *$186
3BR Center (mo) $750
3BR Outside (mo) *$363

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
City Heights, Lagao
Best For
retirees, business owners

Expat Life Notes

The Tuna Capital is affordable and friendly, but less developed for expats than Cebu or Davao.

Pros

  • ✓ Low cost of living
  • ✓ Native English proficiency
  • ✓ Great seafood

Cons

  • ✗ Limited western entertainment
  • ✗ Safety advisories for Mindanao
  • ✗ Poor public transport

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
22°C°C - 33°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1866 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about General Santos

Click any question to expand the answer.

General Santos has a population of approximately 722,059 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $875 per month in General Santos, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $350/month.

The nearest airport to General Santos is GES, approximately 11km away.

General Santos is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 64.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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