Davao City, Philippines

Retire in Davao, Philippines

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 16, 2025

Summary: Davao, Philippines City in the Philippines is a popular destination for retirees due to its low cost of living, friendly locals, and beautiful scenery. The weather in Davao is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 73°F (23°C) to an average high of 91°F (33°C). There are several retirement communities in Davao, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Davao is typically around $50,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $70,000 USD.

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What is it like to retire in Davao?

"Davao is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. The city is known for its friendly locals, beautiful beaches, and lush tropical forests. There is an active expat community in Davao, with many retirees from the United States, Europe, and other countries. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Davao Museum, the Philippine Eagle Center, and the Davao Crocodile Park. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as golfing, fishing, and hiking. For those looking for a nightlife, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore," commented one retiree living in Davao, Philippines.

"Recreation is great for me as I am a swimmer. Nightlife is mostly at Hot Legs bars which offer temptations which are not supportive of my fidelity to my wife. A night out is mostly people watching or a restaurant meal," explained one retiree living in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"The life here is somewhat chaotic and unorganized. I miss the clean streets and organized living of Canada. I find the poverty disturbing. The Filipino men can be abusive to their wives and drink way too much alcohol. Last week an out of town family group abandoned a little 4 year old girl where we sit at the beach. She didn't even have clothes. That bothers me," said a person in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Davao?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Davao is the cost of living. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation can be higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the city can be prone to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes, which can cause disruption and damage to property. Furthermore, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who are not fluent in Tagalog or Cebuano, the two main languages spoken in Davao. Finally, the city can be quite isolated, making it difficult to access medical care and other services," said a person in Davao.

"The lack of infrastructure, heat & humidity, stark grinding poverty, and the increase of price for Westerners," remarked one retiree in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Davao?

"An affordable 2 bedroom home 5 minute walk to the beach. Very minimal property tax. Cheap transportation and food costs. Friendly people. Loving wife. Not having cloudy, wet & cold weather. Not having to shovel snow and ice and pack firewood for my wood stove," remarked one retiree in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.

"Retiring in Davao offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its warm and friendly people, making it a great place to make new friends and build relationships. The cost of living is relatively low, allowing retirees to stretch their retirement savings further. The city is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to swimming and snorkeling. The city also offers a wide range of cultural attractions, from museums and galleries to traditional festivals and markets. Finally, the city is known for its excellent healthcare system, making it a great place to retire and stay healthy," said a retiree who moved to Davao, Philippines.

What are healthcare services like in Davao?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Davao. They wrote:

"Davao City in the Philippines offers a wide range of healthcare services. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical care. These facilities offer a variety of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. Additionally, Davao City has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide access to medications and medical supplies. The city also has a number of health centers that provide preventive care and health education," said one retiree in living in Davao, Philippines.

How do I meet people in Davao?

When we asked people living in Davao about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Diving, rotary, NGO like tree planting or animals or street children. Church groups," said one retiree in Davao.

"Visit high-end malls such as Abrezza or SM Lanang that are frequented by foreigners and wealthier Filipinos," commented one retiree living in Davao, Philippines.

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What is life like in Davao?

When we asked people living in Davao what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Socializing, eating, drinking, living a nice and happy life in and surrounded by nature," said one retiree in living in Davao, Philippines.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Davao is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its friendly locals, low cost of living, and abundance of outdoor activities. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. The city is also well-connected, with reliable internet access and plenty of coworking spaces. Additionally, the city is close to some of the country's most beautiful beaches, making it a great place to relax and unwind. All in all, Davao is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a comfortable and affordable place to live and work," explained a retiree in Davao.

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We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Davao?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Davao, they said:

"Before retiring in Davao, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally lower than in other parts of the country. They should also research the local culture and customs, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local climate, which is generally hot and humid year-round. Finally, expats should research the local job market and the availability of recreational activities in the area," explained a retiree in Davao.

"The best is to have some work over internet from outside the country. It is more an investment country over here than a job finding country," explained one retiree living in Davao.

What type of recreational activities are there in Davao?

"Davao City is home to a variety of recreational facilities, including the People's Park, which features a lagoon, a playground, and a mini-zoo. The Davao Crocodile Park is a popular destination for visitors, offering a variety of crocodile-related activities, such as feeding and watching shows. The Philippine Eagle Center is a conservation center dedicated to the preservation of the Philippine Eagle, the country's national bird. The Davao City Golf and Country Club is a popular spot for golfers, offering an 18-hole championship course. The Davao Museum of History and Ethnography is a great place to learn about the city's history and culture. For those looking for a more active experience, the Davao Adventure Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as zip-lining, rappelling, and rock climbing," said one person who retired in Davao.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Davao?

"Davao City is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular places to shop is Gaisano Mall, which offers a wide variety of items from clothing to electronics. Another popular shopping destination is SM City Davao, which is the largest mall in the city and offers a wide range of products from international brands. For those looking for a more local shopping experience, there are several markets in the city, such as the Bankerohan Public Market and the Aldevinco Shopping Center. For groceries, there are several supermarkets in the city, such as Robinsons Supermarket, Rustan's Supermarket, and South Seas Supermarket," remarked one retiree in Davao.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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