🇵🇭 10 Best Cities in the Philippines to Retire, Work Remotely, or Backpack in 2025
Thinking about retiring, working remotely, or backpacking in the Philippines? You’re not alone. In 2025, more Americans and digital nomads are quietly making the Philippines their next home base or extended travel destination—and for good reason.
From low cost of living to stunning natural beauty and welcoming communities, the Philippines offers some of the most attractive and underrated cities for those looking to escape the grind or simply enjoy life in a tropical paradise.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best cities in the Philippines to retire, work remotely, or backpack—perfect for expats, travelers, and nomads alike.
🌴 Why the Philippines Is the Ultimate Destination in 2025
The Philippines is increasingly popular among:
- ✅ Retirees seeking peaceful, affordable tropical living
- ✅ Digital nomads looking for reliable internet, budget-friendly accommodations, and coworking spaces
- ✅ Backpackers craving diverse landscapes, history, food, and friendly locals
With English as a widely spoken language, a low cost of living, and visa options like the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV), the Philippines is becoming the go-to Southeast Asian country for long-term travelers and expats.
🏝️ Top 10 Cities in the Philippines for Retirees, Digital Nomads & Backpackers
1. Iloilo City – The Sustainable Smart City
✅ Best for: Retirees, Nomads, Culture Lovers
🏞️ Known for its bike lanes, clean air, heritage mansions, and vibrant festivals like Dinagyang.
💻 Free WiFi zones and coworking spaces make it nomad-friendly.
Backpacker Tip: Visit the Iloilo River Esplanade for sunset views and street food.
2. Dumaguete City – The “City of Gentle People”
✅ Best for: Retirees, Solo Travelers, SCUBA Divers
💰 Affordable lifestyle, expat-friendly communities, and home to Silliman University.
🌊 Close to Apo Island—one of the top diving spots in the Philippines.
Backpacker Tip: Grab a motorbike and explore nearby waterfalls and mountain resorts.
3. Legazpi City (Albay) – Home of Mount Mayon
✅ Best for: Adventure Travelers, Nature Lovers
🏔️ Scenic views of Mayon Volcano, plus a new international airport.
📶 Expanding infrastructure supports remote work in cafés and accommodations.
Backpacker Tip: Hike Mount Mayon or ATV around its volcanic trails.
4. Lapu-Lapu City (Cebu) – Island City Vibes
✅ Best for: Digital Nomads, Beach Seekers
🚀 Close to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, with beaches and resorts perfect for work/life balance.
🏝️ Coastal living with modern infrastructure and coworking spaces.
Backpacker Tip: Island hop to nearby Olango and Nalusuan islands.
5. Zamboanga City – Cultural Crossroads
✅ Best for: Off-the-Beaten-Path Travelers
🏖️ Famous for Pink Sand Beaches and Chavacano language (Spanish-based Creole).
👣 Less touristy, ideal for cultural immersion.
Backpacker Tip: Explore the unique seafood markets and ferry routes to the Sulu archipelago.
6. Baguio City – The Summer Capital
✅ Best for: Cool Climate Lovers, Creative Nomads
🌲 Elevated at 5,000 ft, Baguio has spring-like weather all year.
🎨 Bursting with art hubs, cafés, and student energy.
Backpacker Tip: Visit Tam-awan Village and hike Mt. Kalugong.
7. Tagaytay City – Quick Escape Near Manila
✅ Best for: Weekend Travelers, Remote Workers
🌋 Views of Taal Volcano, trendy cafés, and cozy lodges.
🚗 Just 1.5–2 hours from Manila—ideal for digital nomads needing city access.
Backpacker Tip: Rent a bike and enjoy lakeside routes with volcano views.
8. Clark (Pampanga) – Business & Nomad Hub
✅ Best for: Long-term Nomads, Corporate Travelers
🛫 Served by Clark International Airport, fast-growing business parks and BPO hubs.
💻 Excellent internet and coworking culture.
Backpacker Tip: Explore food markets and hike Mt. Arayat.
9. Dasmariñas (Cavite) – Metro Escape with Suburban Comfort
✅ Best for: Retirees, Families
🏘️ Peaceful and budget-friendly alternative to Metro Manila with access to malls, hospitals, and transport.
🚆 Near Tagaytay and new infrastructure projects.
Backpacker Tip: Use it as a jump-off point to explore Cavite’s historical spots.
10. Davao City – Safety, Cleanliness, and Nature
✅ Best for: Long-Term Expats, Nature Enthusiasts
🛡️ Known as the safest city in the Philippines
🍃 Home to Mt. Apo, the country’s tallest mountain, and lush parks.
Backpacker Tip: Try river tubing and visit the Philippine Eagle Center.
💡 Why Digital Nomads and Retirees Love These Cities
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 💸 Cost of Living | Rent starts at $150/month outside Metro Manila |
| 🌐 Internet | Most cities have 50–100 Mbps in urban zones |
| 🏥 Healthcare | Access to public and private hospitals, especially in Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo |
| 🍲 Food Scene | Mix of local street food, seafood, and international cuisine |
| 🛂 Long-Stay Options | SRRV or tourist visa extensions up to 36 months |
🧳 Final Thoughts: Why the Philippines Should Be on Your 2025 Radar
Whether you’re looking for a place to settle down, build a remote work base, or explore the islands one backpack at a time—the Philippines offers it all. These 10 cities represent the country’s evolving charm: warm hospitality, exciting growth, and breathtaking beauty—all at an affordable cost.
