BAGUIO CITY. Now, if you are looking for a cooler climate, Baguio City offers a refreshing environment away from the sweltering heat of the lowlands. It enjoys a prime location in the highlands, modern conveniences as well as key tourist destinations. The cost of living here is decidedly much lower than in the metropolitan area.
Overall, living in Baguio City gives you the opportunity to live in a cooler environment, while enjoying pleasurable activities like strolling in Burnham Park and other interesting sites. You can take advantage of affordable housing, modern facilities, and amazing views.
TAGAYTAY CITY. If you want a distinct cool climate, yet still have convenient access to Metro Manila, Tagaytay City is the best option for you. Like Baguio City, it offers a more cost-effective way of living while still enjoying a comfortable climate. It is an urbanized locality that has retained its countryside appeal.
There are also other places in the CALABARZON region, where Tagaytay City is located, that offers an alternative retirement option. Some places in the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon are fast becoming a favorite among retirees. The reasons for these include: close proximity to Metro Manila, diverse topography, and presence of various attractions.
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY. If you are looking for a place away from the noise and pollution of the city, Puerto Princesa is the ideal choice. Lauded as the cleanest and greenest city in the country, this offers a relaxing and idyllic ambiance. The splendid blue waters and natural diversity found in the area plus in its neighboring towns will definitely appeal to expats.
Although the area may seem remote to some, modern facilities and amenities are available here. All your basic needs can be acquired.
Indeed, these are just some of the appealing retirement places to choose from in the Luzon area. Other provinces like Pampanga, Zambales, Isabela, Aurora, and the Ilocos Region are emerging as budding retirement destinations. They are already rich in natural attractions. The creation of more retiree friendly facilities and infrastructures will further enhance their potential.
VISAYAS: Home to the 2012 Best Island in the World
They say the best things come in small packages, and this is undoubtedly true for the smallest island group in the Philippines. Offering a variety of retirement options for retirees, Visayas has gained a reputation for being the next big retirement destination in the country.
CEBU. Gaining much attention as the next best option after Metro Manila is the “Queen City of the South.” Those who appreciate city living without the pricey tag will enjoy residing in the vibrant province of Cebu.
Retirees who are really looking for a tranquil environment and still be near modern city conveniences, they will come to the right place. Although it features highly urbanized areas, the way of life here is definitely more stress-free and slow-paced. The prices here are also lower relative to Metro Manila. You could buy a 2-bedroom house here at a price of a 1-bedroom condo unit in a high rise building in Makati.
The city center is indeed very busy with activities, but once you go to more rural areas, you will be delighted by the idyllic countryside. There are several lovely beaches and clean environment that retirees will find relaxing. The combination of provincial charm and urban sophistication makes Cebu an enchanting place for retirement.
August 14, 2013 at 3:59 am
Your analysis was accurate except for one point,… The Air Pollution is really getting bad in Baguio these days and the infrastructure is not keeping up especially the roads for vehicles,… The streets are often very crowded and the air quality is often worse than Manila,… The burning restrictions are not enforced either adding to the air pollution. It was my expat home for nearly 6 years. I love the city but it is hard on your lungs and sinus. Just saying!
September 11, 2013 at 4:58 pm
The Philippines is too far as a retirement destination to attract independent seniors from the United States. Besides, the country lacks the supporting infrastructure. The future is assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care facilities. The competitive advantage is an overabundance of healthcare workers estimated at 400,000 unemployed and underemployed nurses.
January 22, 2020 at 12:33 pm
Sadly you have no idea….Those same unemployed healthcare workers can live in/out ….In @ a cost = $300-$500 USD….Out/ $200-400 usd
December 8, 2013 at 7:03 pm
Any reference on how a retired Californian can pay for medical care if retired in the Philippines? Does medical or medicaid support retirees in the Philippines? Thank you.
December 9, 2013 at 4:07 am
Edwin as far as I can tell neither Medicare nor Medicaid will pay for services in the Philippines.
December 30, 2013 at 2:33 pm
How about law and order in these areas? Retiree wants to know the crime rate and break ins to elderly apartment and/or house. Thanks, Freddie
June 17, 2014 at 8:48 am
hi – thinking of retiring with my husband in about 5 years time – coming from edinburgh scotland. would like to make friends/advice before then. Is there anyone who would like to chat maybe on facebook or skype? lyn
July 13, 2014 at 5:02 am
Wanting to retire here within the next few years as well. Need advice. Looking for a quiet little 2-3.bedroom house on or next to ocean, beautiful scenery. We are in our 40s and 50. Want to rent for 500 a month usd is that possible?
July 30, 2014 at 9:14 pm
Hello Lyn, Hello Amy. My name is Louise, a former Filipina journalist married to a Belgian journalist, living in Belgium. I go home on a regular basis (almost every year). We own a small island, and have began talking to people who are considering retiring in the Philippines. We also help people choose itineraries when they want to visit the Philippines as tourists. I wonder if you have already visited the Philippines and why do you think that this might be the best country for you. If you want to have a chat, do not hesitate to get in touch. I’m on facebook (Louise Baterna) or via email, hubertbaternalouise@gmail.com.
August 21, 2014 at 7:32 am
Hi, Amy & Lyn! I am licensed real estate broker here who can offer you the type of property you want, from farm to luxury condominiums. It will be my pleasure to help you settle here. My email address is celocampo_realty@yahoo.com. Thank you!
October 17, 2014 at 11:14 pm
too far from the USA ???? 300,000 us citizens already call the Philippines home….it must be well worth it to make the travel…how many of us will drive across town for our favourite hamburger bypassing other hamburger joints on the way ? same for retirement
March 9, 2015 at 5:45 am
Choosing between Cebu or Metro Manila as one of the best places to retire in the Philippines I’ll probably choose Cebu. Living in Cebu will give you a balance of having facilities without enduring dirty pollution of Metro Manila.
July 10, 2022 at 2:15 am
One of the more positive outcomes of the pandemic’s e-commerce boom has been a significant increase in warehouse demand in the Philippines. Imposed lockdowns and widespread mobility restrictions accelerated the country’s rapid rise in online shopping.
The e-commerce industry’s revenue is expected to reach $5.9 million by the end of 2021, representing a 14.64 percent annual growth rate compared to pre-pandemic years.
investing in philippines warehouse!