10 Best Places to Live In The Philippines

Are you looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to live in the Philippines? Then you're in luck! We've compiled a list of the 10 best places to live in the Philippines, so you can find the perfect place for your new home. From beach towns to mountain villages, these 10 locations have something special to offer, but there is one big problem. The country consists of 7,640 different islands. So how do you choose where to live? Read on to find out more!

1. Makati City, Manila

This city is the point where business, culture, and entertainment all come together with insane skyscrapers. This highly urbanized center is a must-have visit for every city lover. It has absolutely colossal shopping malls, and if you are a spendthrift, then you can shop till you drop. If you are a foodie, then Makati's street food and restaurant variety will wow you. Not to forget the nightlife is pretty exciting as well. All in all, it is a fantastic city, so this is an excellent option for ex-pats.

2. Cebu City

The best cities are the ones that have an outstanding balance of rural and urban attractions, and Cebu just happens to offer that as well. This particular city is highly urbanized and provides all the amenities that you could possibly need simultaneously. You are also close to the most. Jaw-dropping beaches such as Malapascua, Sibaltan, and Bantayan. If you end up in the city, do not forget to check out the absolutely breathtaking waterfalls and the diverse wildlife present. If you are into water sports, then diving is definitely worthwhile. 

3. Davao City

With low crime rates and strict law enforcement, this city is one of the safest places to live in the Philippines. On top of that, getting here is pretty easy too. You can reach the city by air or sea travel. Since it is so easy to travel here, it has automatically become an exceptional business hub with ever-developing infrastructure and utilities, shopping malls, hospitals, and anything else you could wish for you’d find here, so it is definitely a great city to live in. 

4. Iloilo City 

There are many reasons why Iloilo City, the city of love, is a great city to live in. It has such a rich history and all of that is beautifully compiled and displayed in museums. Another thing that makes Iloilo City so unique is the architecture. The buildings are heavily influenced by architecture from the Spanish colonial times. The food in the City of Iloilo has some amazing delicacies. This city is honestly so incredible that once you come here, you will never want to leave.

5. Bacolod City

Bacolod, also known as the City of Smiles, is a beautiful city with unique festivals, delicious cuisine, welcoming people, and stunning places. If you are into beachy places, then check out Lakawon Island and you will find the prettiest waterfall at Pulang Tubig Falls. The city is also famous for its MassKara Festival, so you should definitely check that out as well. All in all, this city offers a vibrant culture of history mixed with natural beauty. 

6. Dumaguete City

Dumaguete, also known as the City of Gentle People, offers an enjoyable experience to ex-pats. It is diverse and vibrant with various festivals. Exciting nightlife, shopping malls, decent healthcare, luxurious beach resorts, and many tourist spots. Not just that, you can also appease your adventurous spirit by trying all the various water sports. You can go swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving at any beach nearby.

7. Lipa City

Are you obsessed with different kinds of beaches? Well, then Lipa City will give you a fantastic variety. Here you get absolutely breathtaking beaches, some of them having white sands and others having rocky shores. You also get a range of beach resorts that you can check out, and it is honestly perfect for people who like some solitude. Not that, just that there are some fantastic mountain climbing sites as well, so you will not get bored in this amazing place.

8. Baguio City

If you get tired of the warm and humid weather in the Philippine lowlands, then definitely check out this city located in the Cordillera Central (Luzon) Mountains. You will get a chance to not just escape the heat, but you can also try a bunch of fun recreational activities. Since it is located in the mountains, you can go hiking while simultaneously exploring all the wildlife present in this beautiful city. It also has a super cool city market and you can do all your shopping at extremely reasonable prices. 

9. Subic Bay

Are you an adventure lover? Do you love exploring? Well, then you have to visit Subic. There are so many exciting activities to do in this super cool city. There are many excellent beaches. You should go island hopping and visit White Castle Island in Subic Bay. It is immaculate and well-ordered, but some ex-pats find the place a bit too sterile. So many choose to live in the nearby Olongapo City for a bit more excitement, and there is also a big ex-pat community. 


10. Puerto Princesa 

This highly urbanized city is honestly a fantastic place to live in. It is one of the greenest and cleanest cities in the entire Philippines and offers many enjoyable activities. If you want to live in Puerto Princesa, we can assure you, you simply will not get bored. Puerto Princesa is a beautiful coastal city with fantastic beach resorts and next-level seafood restaurants. If you are a fan of fresh fried fish, shrimp, crabs, prawns, and literally any other seafood, then this place will be heaven for you.


In conclusion, the Philippines is full of wonderful places to live, and these 10 cities have been chosen as the best places to call home. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to the laid-back charm of Baguio City, the Philippines has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a place to raise a family, a vibrant nightlife, or a place to relax and take in the beauty of the country, there is a city in the Philippines that will fit your needs. No matter where you choose, you are sure to be in good hands in the Philippines.

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