The Philippines has emerged as a rising star among digital nomad destinations, offering an enticing blend of affordable living costs, stunning natural scenery, rich culture and hospitality, and plenty of spots with reliable internet to get work done remotely.
With more than 7,000 tropical islands to choose from, picking the right destination in the Philippines can be overwhelming for digital nomads. This comprehensive guide explores the top spots across the archipelago that are ideal for digital nomads.
Introduction
The number of digital nomads choosing the Philippines as their next remote work destination has skyrocketed in recent years. The archipelago nation saw a 775% increase in digital nomad tourist arrivals from 2020 to 2021, according to the Philippines’ Department of Tourism.
What is spurring this rapid growth? The Philippines offers an optimal environment for location-independent professionals who want to combine work and wanderlust. Filipino cities and islands allow digital nomads to live affordably while delivering a culturally immersive experience with laidback island vibes. Nature lovers will also find paradise with pristine beaches, mountains, and some of the world’s best dive sites.
This blog provides a complete guide to the emerging hubs and hidden gem destinations across the Philippines for digital nomads. Whether you seek bustling metro hives like Manila and Cebu or surf havens like Siargao, there is a spot that will inspire productivity and adventure.
Best Places for Digital Nomads in the Philippines
Manila
As the bustling capital and economic center of the Philippines, Manila offers digital nomads a dynamic urban environment with modern conveniences and an emerging startup scene.
Key Highlights:
- Thriving co-working spaces like Co.Lab, Common Ground, and Accelerate provide reliable internet connections and networking opportunities.
- Districts like Makati and BGC (Bonifacio Global City) have co-living spaces, high-end malls, and a growing number of digital nomad-friendly cafes.
- Intramuros, the historic walled city, provides a glimpse of Manila’s Spanish colonial past.
- Situated on Manila Bay, the city provides easy access to domestic travel across Luzon.
Cost of Living:
$$$
Average Monthly Rent:
₱22,000 – ₱60,000
Coworking Space Average Monthly Rate:
₱6,000 – ₱15,000
Cebu
Known as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu offers digital nomads an affordable alternative to Manila with direct access to tropical beaches and mountains.
Key Highlights:
- An average internet speed of 20 Mbps supports remote work needs.
- Numerous coworking spaces can be found in the city center and suburban areas.
- Mango Avenue and IT Park are popular digital nomad hotspots.
- Nearby beach areas like Mactan Island provide a quick island escape.
Cost of Living:
$$
Average Monthly Rent:
₱15,000 – ₱45,000
Coworking Space Average Monthly Rate:
₱4,500 – ₱10,000
Palawan
For digital nomads who dream of working with a view of limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, Palawan is paradise. Though internet reliability can be spotty, Palawan wows with sublime natural beauty.
Key Highlights:
- Puerto Princesa, Palawan’s capital, balances city conveniences like malls and universities with access to island adventures.
- El Nido and Coron offer stunning island- and beach-hopping with occasional coworking spaces and internet cafes.
- Underground River National Park features a UNESCO World Heritage Site navigable by boat.
Cost of Living:
$$$
Average Monthly Rent:
₱15,000 – ₱35,000
Coworking Space Average Monthly Rate:
₱5,000 – ₱8,000
Baguio
Situated in the mountains of northern Luzon, Baguio provides a comfortable climate that’s perfect for digital nomads who like a refreshing change from the tropical heat.
Key Highlights:
- Average daily temperature is 22°C, dropping to a chilly 16°C in January.
- Burnham Park offers picturesque lake views tucked into the city center.
- Local cafes like Cafe by the Ruins Dua provide remote workspaces.
- Close proximity to scenic mountain destinations like Sagada.
Cost of Living:
$$
Average Monthly Rent:
₱10,000 – ₱25,000
Coworking Space Average Monthly Rate:
₱3,500 – ₱6,000
Siargao
A remote work haven for digital nomads with a passion for surfing, Siargao offers a laidback vibe surrounded by coconut palms swaying over turquoise waves.
Key Highlights:
- Major surf spots like Cloud 9 and Jacking Horse appeal to wave-loving remote workers.
- Coworking hubs provide stable internet in General Luna and Santa Monica.
- Offshore island-hopping adventures like exploring Guyam Island allow digital nomads to unplug in nature.
Cost of Living:
$$
Average Monthly Rent:
₱8,000 – ₱18,000
Coworking Space Average Monthly Rate:
₱5,000 – ₱7,000
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Location
When selecting your ideal destination in the Philippines as a digital nomad, keep the following key factors in mind:
Internet Speed and Reliability
A fast and stable internet connection is essential for digital nomads to be productive remotely. In the Philippines, internet speed averages 10-20 Mbps in most urban areas but can be unreliable in remote islands.
Seek out locations with competitive broadband services or confirm your accommodation has strong Wifi. Coworking spaces typically have guaranteed high-speed internet.
Cost of Living
The Philippines offers affordable living overall, especially compared to western standards. But costs can vary significantly. Manila, Cebu, and Palawan are relatively more expensive while rural towns like Dumaguete have lower costs.
Check prices for housing and basic amenities when choosing where to base yourself. Proximity to beaches and tourist centers will inflate costs.
Amenities and Coworking Spaces
Look for cities or towns with coworking spaces that suit your needs or cafes conducive for remote work. Access to health services, fitness centers, and markets for groceries will facilitate living abroad.
Metro cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao have the most plentiful amenities tailored to digital nomads. However, options are increasing in smaller communities like Siargao and Tagaytay.
Safety and Cultural Considerations
The Philippines is generally safe, especially in established digital nomad centers. But use common sense, avoid petty crime areas, and steer clear of southern conflict zones.
Research local laws and cultural etiquette like dressing modestly when entering churches. For a rewarding experience, embrace the welcoming spirit of Filipinos.
Essential Tips for Digital Nomads in the Philippines
Follow these top tips for a fruitful and enjoyable digital nomad experience in the Philippines:
Obtain a Visa
Most nationalities can enter visa-free initially for 30 days. Extend your stay for up to 3 years with a Special Stay Stamp (SSS) visa. Or apply for traditional tourist or business visas.
Secure Accommodations
Book short-term housing with sites like Airbnb when scoping out neighborhoods. For longer stays of 1-6 months or more, renting an apartment can be more affordable.
Explore Local Cuisine
Savor the flavors of street food like isaw, adobo, and halo-halo. Don’t miss local specialties in each region like lechon in Cebu. An $8 USD daily food budget is doable if you live like the locals.
Embrace the Filipino Way of Life
Immerse yourself in the easygoing, community-oriented way of life. Learn basic phrases in Tagalog. Join local meetups and outings with expat groups.
Conclusion
With its inviting culture, natural wonders, low cost of living, and emerging WiFi infrastructure, the Philippines checks all the boxes for digital nomads. You’ll find your ideal work-life balance in bustling Manila, the outdoor playground of Siargao, or the tranquil beaches of Palawan.
Ready to start your location independent career in the Philippines? Let us know which destinations call to you and why in the comments! Share tips from your digital nomad experiences in this amazing country.
