Pros and cons of moving to the Philippines

The Philippines is well known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, with turquoise waters and lush green flora. The Philippines’s best feature, though, is its warm and welcoming people, who contribute to the country’s cultural richness.

If you are moving to the Philippines, you may be enticed by the wonderful quality of life, but just like any destination, there are some downsides to living in paradise.

Below is our list of pros and cons of moving to the Philippines.

Lifestyle in the Philippines

+ PRO: Beautiful natural scenery

With more than 7,000 islands and white sandy beaches, the Philippines’s striking natural landscape will leave you in awe. The country’s beaches consistently top the best beaches and islands lists, while the archipelago is also famous for its delicious exotic fruit.

+ PRO: Plenty of outdoor entertainment

Thanks to an abundance of beaches, rock formations, and mountains, the Philippines is a haven for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. You can look forward to a plethora of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, rock climbing, surfing, and sandboarding.

Safety in the Philippines

- CON: High crime rates

Safety in the Philippines is a major concern, with high crime rates and gang activity recorded in Manila. There are also scams targeting tourists and foreigners. You should avoid crowded public places and remain vigilant.

- CON: Increased incidence of natural disasters

The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Typhoons are known for leaving behind a trail of destruction during the wet season, while volcanic and seismic activity is also a common occurrence.

Safety in the Philippines

Cost of living in the Philippines

+ PRO: Inexpensive groceries and restaurants

The cost of living in the Philippines is generally low. Produce is cheap and fresh since the archipelago has a thriving agriculture industry. The Philippines also boasts fantastic cuisine and a vibrant restaurant scene, with options for every price point. Typically, eating out is highly affordable.

+ PRO: Public healthcare is free and private healthcare is low cost

If you are working in the Philippines, you will be entitled to receive free public healthcare under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). That said, standards in public hospitals vary, so most people choose private healthcare, which is low cost and largely exceptional.

Cost of Living in the Philippines
Working in the Philippines 
Healthcare in the Philippines

Accommodation in the Philippines

+ PRO: An abundance of housing options

If you are moving to the Philippines, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to both furnished and unfurnished housing. Accommodation in the Philippines comes in many forms, including apartments, freestanding houses, townhouses, duplexes, and luxury condos in gated communities.

Most expats prefer condos in Metro Manila or Cebu, where security, amenities, and maintenance services are top-notch. If you are looking for a more relaxed environment, renting a house in suburban areas like Alabang or Tagaytay provides a quieter lifestyle with more space.

Accommodation in the Philippines

Transport and driving in the Philippines

- CON: Driving can be chaotic and frustrating

Driving in the Philippines is not for the faint-hearted. Roads in major cities are often congested, and traffic rules are loosely enforced. Many drivers disregard lane discipline, and road conditions vary widely, especially when you travel to more rural areas.

Expats will often hire drivers to handle the hectic traffic, especially in Metro Manila. If you choose to drive, defensive driving is essential.

+ PRO: Extensive and reliable public transport system

The public transport system in the Philippines is as diverse as its population. The country has modern and traditional transport modes that support every budget and travel need.

Metro Manila’s LRT and MRT train networks provide a quick way to avoid the city’s notorious traffic, although they can be overcrowded. Jeepneys remain the most iconic and affordable option, covering almost every route, while buses and ride-hailing services like Grab offer more comfort and convenience.

In provincial areas, tricycles and habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are popular for short distances. Cebu and Davao also have reliable taxi services, with stricter regulations in place.

Public Transport and Driving in the Philippines