You are 100 percent correct in your video. My wife and I loved living across the street from Ayala Mall and had expenses less than $2000 per month. We loved Landers (Costco for Americans) and went there every month. Being over 60 I was treated like a king. We had to go back to Vietnam, because her mom got sick again (Family First). If that had not happened we would still be in Avalon Condominiums today. I love Cebu. Another bonus you can mention is the USA Social Security Administration for Asia is in the Philippines. For a deposit of less than $12,000 in BPI you can live in the Philippines forever. I love CEBU, and the Cebu Business Park (w/Ayala Mall and Landers) most of all.
No doubt Reginald. I think living on less than $2,000 per month is definitely doable for most expats, but 2k provides a very high quality lifestyle. Good to hear that you guys shop at Landers, it's a nice warehouse store. Do they have S & R grocery store there? That's where we typically shop.
Cebu and Manila both have some major league prices . I think most people think they're going to live in Shangri-La over there for peanuts, it's not that way. I bought a condo in Manila and I have a house on the province but for a lot of people watching these videos, Cebu and Manila are not really -- Bargains if you want to live a good exciting life. That being said it is what it is and you can live better there than you can America for a lot less money. Your videos are top-notch and you obviously do a lot of research and work, fantastic.
I think you are wrong about Cebu and Manila not offering rent etc for peanuts. First the comp for Cebu and Manila if you're trying to compare their prices to the US prices wouldn't be Athens Georgia or some mid tier US city....It would be NYC or San Francisco. Once you go in with that mind frame you will see that to stay in the best most expensive neighborhoods in those cities you're paying $3000 monthly for a studio up to $10,000+ per month for a 2 bedroom with similar views. Where in the US can you rent and apartment in the heart of one of Silicon Valley or the big apple for less then $2000 per month. To live a similar big city exciting lifestyle Cebu and Manila are still huge bargains. I could live that lifestyle in Cebu for $3500 - $5000 per month total (rent included). That would be just my rent in NYC or San Francisco.
This a very together young man with bearing and a great demeanor. A top-notch vid with TONS of facts, figures, great information and attractive visuals. Excellent vid,excellent job!
I love living minimalistic and am happy with small things. This makes me move there more comfortable! :-) I can afford this average, but living small and humble makes me save more money! Thank you for your videos!
It's worth noting that the developments in Cebu is about to snowball soon if you're paying close attention. So the time to invest is now. Because the market value in real estate is about to skyrocket within the next 5 to 10 years as the infrastructure catches up. Cost of living will too. Cebu is the country's center hub for tourism, businesses will boom in the years to come. If you're thinking about investing big, now's the time.
Your video and information is very timely for me. I am one of those Americans approaching retirement with a since of horror. Because of previous jobs in technology, I have contacts in the Cebu "Technology Scene". (Actually, I was laid off and my position went to a talented coworker in Cebu) My first trip to Cebu is in two weeks, Jul 2. My excitement level is growing as I will actually communicate face to face, opposed to video calls, with former colleagues. Your information is broadening the scope of my visit to include research day to day life in Cebu. It's a long flight from Atlanta to Cebu. I look forward to my time in Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and Manila. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Good video. My current plan is to stay in Cebu for a while. I expect that some areas may be under water in the next decade or two. Condos are mostly safe during hurricanes, but not so much during earthquakes. On the plus side, they offer good security and usually have a backup generator on site and are typically centrally-located for food, shopping and entertainment. Some condos even have restaurants, shops and malls etc. on the lower levels, as well as a gym and play area for kiddos. On the down-side, you may end up with out-of-service elevators often, depending on where you are staying, as well as congested traffic when trying to get around the city. Some places may not offer parking, so that is another consideration for potential costs. Many considerations, some subjective; pros and cons to every place, of course.
Great points. Cebu is a disaster prone area which I find to be one of the major downsides. Aside from that, Cebu City is an ideal place to live for many expats. Thanks for sharing.
@@TheSavvyExpat For sure. Maybe difficult to avoid completely since the Phils is basically along the ring of fire. Every place has its pros and cons and would be weighed differently, depending on who you are talking to. I am not sure if I would choose Cebu as my top preference, but it is a good, pragmatic choice for now. Thanks for replying.
I’m here in Cebu… not so impressive ! I like that there is a direct flight to Bangkok at least. Plus nearby provinces with epic islands such as Camuiguen
I haven't been to Cebu in like 5 years. Cebu seems to be turning into Manila as another place where many would like to live and to have as many places and tourist attractions to visit lots to see and do in Cebu
Thinking I'm priced out of moving there now... Only got $1000/month... Really wanna go but my life in Chiang Mai is very comfortable on $1000/month ... Cebu I might struggle. *Crap Game*
Thank you so much for this (and all of your other) videos. Most of my pinay friends tell me Cebu is where I should live. But what part of the city would be "best" for someone who likes being close to wet markets and modern malls, but without the big-city chaos a la Bangkok? Backstory: Me and my girlfriend are relocating from Thailand to the Philippines in November. We have never been there and are going to explore the country and see if 1. We like it there and 2. What part of the country we like the most. Cebu is number one on my list to see and explore and your videos are very helpful!
Definitely Cebu. I’m from the US and been living here in talamban cebu for almost 10 yrs now. It’s very close to malls, schools and wet market with a good mountain view. I even walk every morning to shop fresh produced. I love it here. What’s surprised me the most is the prices are hella wayyy cheap compared to the farmer’s market in the US. We live off a thousand dollar a month as a family of 4 and i save up so much money by just working as a freelancer for a US based tech comp. Beaches and tourist spots is just a few miles away so we enjoy it so much every weekend. Well it’s kinda traffic tho but not really that bad compared to manila traffic and not really chaotic compared to Bangkok.
Good job, Evan. Personally I don't care for apt/condo living. I prefer a house with a yard, etc. Even better, a place in the country but close to the city so you can take advantage of the things available there. Peaceful country living is preferable for me. But hey, everyone likes different things. Keep up the good work.
Spent my vacation in Cebu from 8 April 1995 to October 1995.mostly around Fuente Avenue , around d city . Lots of fun then . Since then have been der another 3x 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
For the majority of expats these seem to be on the high side of what they are expecting as most discussions involve budgets of $1000 to 1500 so these are way out of reach. I have noticed you don't seem to realize most will be living on retirement as they will not be working.
Great Videos, Do you have or plan to have any videos on furnished gated communities/ Apartments/ houses for rent in Cebu? Safest neighborhoods in /near Cebu. Thank You.
I live in Seoul, having a small 33m^2 condominium with my partner. We spend also around 2500 usd per month. We traveled to Cebu last summer and found it a lovely city. I didn’t realize it is really not cheap 😮
Best COL I have seen especially how you gave so many choices, and examples and visuals of typical spots. Are these furnished and is a one year rental required? Thanks and really professional work by you.
i I've lived in the Philippines for 25 years. Cebu city is not a cheap city to live in, here on the Philippines. Its a great city to live in. .II you can afford it. Eye candy galore. I lived there for 10 years.
Yea on average if you want to live better and being on the high side is o.k. I will want to live on the high side definitely, but dont think buying a condo is for me because I like moving around too much, so like living there in Cebu for a few select months then going to BGC or Makati... basically just traveling around the entire country. Just possibly staying a month or more at any given location. Then when I meet my Filipina it will be for 2 people.😁. Living like a Rockstar 🤩.
@@rephillips56 Agreed. Even if staying in the Phils permanently, I would not opt to buy a condo. The maintenance is not kept up well on them and the long-term valuations will likely depreciate as newer condos pop up, perpetually offering better options. I could be wrong, but land ownership would be a better long-term investment, assuming that it is an option for you.
Thanks for the breakdown. I would be curious how much it would cost to live in Dumaguete. There seems to be a large expat community in Dumaguete and up in Valencia.
I come from Bacolod and work here in the US and come back for a vacation for a month or two twice a year. 2000$ is enough for me to hop hotels the whole time and still bring my family out to eat somewhere 4x a week. On an average day to day cost basis for essentials and having someplace to live, you would do much better than I would with apartments or condos since hotels are the most expensive you can pay for housing. Went to vacation in Dumaguete as well and noticed its not a lot different from Bacolod besides proximity to Cebu.
Great information. I'm looking to retire at the end of the year and Cebu area is on my list of possible places to settle down. I might lean toward the IT Park area, being a geek myself, but it looks like even the Business Park area is well within my means as well. I was looking forward to the Star Link services being available around the end of the year, so that would take care of my biggest concern of Internet. The hospital information was particularly good to know as my health insurance does cover me while in the Philippines. Still might look into Pacific Cross as they have that medical debit card option to address the 'pay as you get treated' services.
Thanks for your vid, but these prices are crazy, as are the sales prices for condos, and doesn’t reflect what a middle class professional (eg doctor etc) earns
True, but if you are not looking to save money but get a better quality of life, Cebu is heaven for an American Expat. $6000 a month goes a long way in Cebu.
Understandable Toby. Living a high quality western/urban lifestyle in the Philippines is naturally going to cost you more. That's just the truth being how rare it is in this country. I'm talking clean streets, high safety, and a quality lifestyle in paradise. Yes, you can live on less than $2k here for sure, but the more you're willing to spend, the more you'll live like a king there.
Entertaining/informative video ... the housing pricing got a bit long (had to skip ahead). Lived in Taipei 25 years ago (for a year), not cheap even then, but usually ate locally and didn't really get the Western food craving ($$) unless a holiday [T-day; Christmas; Easter; ...].
10usd for a movie? In many ways cebu seems cheaper than Cambodia or Vietnam but that's a lot for the cinema. I go a few times a week to dodge the midday heat in Asia so its definitely something I'd think about
I love cebu it’s not cheap there and comparable to Manila prices it has great food and people and it’s more laid back than the metropolitan city Manila.
@@jonoda894 Most golfers are at the course at 6am, have a leisurely breakfast then Tee off by 7am. 18 holes complete by 10am. This includes snacks and drinks every four holes. Golf carts and caddies make the game a lot more relaxing. A nice one hour massage in an air-conditioned lemon grass smelling room caps off the morning. I've never had an issue with the heat playing in the morning. It's the same routine in Thailand, China, HK, etc
If you know someone with a membership, course fee that I paid was 1,500 pesos. Add around 1K to 1.5K pesos for the golf cart and caddie fee. If you don't know a member expect to pay 3K to 7K pesos for the course fee if the resort accepts non-members. A lot of hotels will happily arrange transport and reservations for you. The figures I mentioned are pre-Covid
instead of people saying how much it cost to live in the filipines...they should say THE COST OF THEIR LIFESTYLE...this takes into consideration location, type of living quarter (house/apt/condo, etc...), food (grocery/takeout/dining), transportation, basic needs (rent cost, water/electric bill/internet/mobile phone, etc)...etc...everyone has a different lifestyle, needs, and wants...telling us what ur lifestyle is, im able to select those lifestyle that is similar to mines, and i'll have a more complete idea of how much i will need...i dont need to know someones lifestyle cost that is nowhere near my lifestyle cost.
I wish you could tell me are advise me. About any Agency that could help me get my SRRV. I want to come visit the Philippine. First but while I am there. I want to put in for a STRV. Help my friend you are the best. I love watching your videos. Take care always
@@TheSavvyExpat thank you my friend. You got to be one of the best I have every meant. You do a great job on your video. Keep up the good work. I hope to meet you one day for coffee or lunch. It’s all on me my friend
I beg to disagree cebu now is very expensive comparable to quezon city, in terms of per kilowatt hour of electricity, water bill, foods and rent. I live here btw. I also experience living in manila...
I think Cebu's only advantage over Manila right now is property price as they're about 25% below the top end price of luxury properties in CBDs in Metro Manila which range from 385K to 420K psm
Aloha, I hope you’re well. I’ll be staying for a month in a hotel in Cebu, while searching for a long term stay condo. Does anyone here has information about how to get the local rate at the hotels in Cebu? I’m still in USA and will travel to move on December this year, Thanks, 🙏🏽
For those on a budget Vagabond Awake just put out a video called $962 Month Cost of Living Cebu in Philippines. He is spending 6 months there. I would like to hear your critique of his claims.
While it’s most definitely possible to live on $1k per month in cebu, you’re by no means going to be living like a “king.” I wouldn’t even say that’s living.
I spend there 3 weeks and it cost me 3 K ,but I did have great time ,so Vagabound guy is full of shit .No westerner can live like a local in Cebu . His whole game is to get a views and subscribers so he tells them exactly what they want to hear . In other words he is "selling the dream" reality however is different .So I believe that in Phillipines is better to live in province or smaller city than chaotic big city like Cebu .
@@rephillips56 That's why I recommend most foreigners to shop at established places i.e malls, landers, S & R, etc. I think many foreigners get charged the "skin tax" at wet markets.
In most cases, foreigners can have their partner or a local employee purchase and negotiate. No involvement required and the cost-savings could be enough to cover the cost of having a maid (or whatever) in the first place.
"I think living on less than $2,000 per month is definitely doable for most expats" the average minimun wage in spain is less than $800 after taxes, you must have a good tech job, own business back in the west to retire to PH, or a good pension i have no idea how people can survive there with average wage of $300, most of the time not even $150
Its nicer to live in the provinces and not in big cities in the philippines......provinces has cities and countryside lifestyles.......you can live there comfortably with just $1,000 a month . You can get a mortgage and car loans with that small incone.I grew up in a province and everything youll need is there...
Hi Rick, I'm currently getting connected to agents, real estate brokers, you name it. The Savvy Expat will be a one stop shop for all expats moving to PH, just sit tight. In the meantime, my email is evan@thesavvyexpat.com so if you want to contact me personally, I can try to make a few recommendations
Mandani Bay is in North Reclamation Area in Mandaue City, which is a bit outside Cebu City. While a bit far from the Cebu City center, it's still near malls (SM City and Parkmall) and the port area, and Mandaue is not bad in terms of cost of living. Although transportation may be an issue as public transport is pretty far and in between.
So rent is not that cheap. As I’m by myself I’d have to live in a tiny hovel by the looks of it. That first condo looks awful with the bathroom opening on to the kitchen. No thanks
Used to live back of Rose Pharmacy Fuente Branch. Left Cebu City for Australia August 18, 1980. Too congested now. Concrete jungle everywhere. No more peace and quiet and open air. 😉
@@robocop581 CORRECTION!!!!! Left Cebu August 17 ... temperature was hot and humid (I think) ... arrived Manila in the afternoon. Plane was delayed. Left Manila following day during the wee hours of the morning. Arrived Melbourne for a stopover ... then, Sydney in the afternoon of August 18, 1980. Should have taken the Qantas. But heard that food was better with PAL. Yeah, I took the PAL plane Reminds me of the acronym PAL, Inc. Stands for Plane Always Late, If Not Cancelled. 😂🤣😀😅😁😁😃😃 I was still a bachelor. 🤣
@@tanaltricio7832 you are wrong about "concrete jungle everywhere" and "no more peace and quiet and open air" in Cebu City my friend. Cebu City is 80% mountains and 20% urban. You can go up in the mountains if you want to. There's a lot of tourist spots in the mountains of Cebu City like flower gardens, mountain resorts, rivers, waterfalls, restaurants and cafe with overlooking views of the mountains and the city. If you want to relax and unwind go up in the highlands of Cebu City.
Good video but all the prices are high end. Of course if you want to spend a lot of money it's definitely possible just like anywhere else but I just moved out of a new studio condo in IT Park and was paying month to month $300. A long term lease would have been much cheaper. My family of 3 living in or near Cebu IT Park with the modern conveniences but not extravagant was under $1k per month.
You are 100 percent correct in your video. My wife and I loved living across the street from Ayala Mall and had expenses less than $2000 per month. We loved Landers (Costco for Americans) and went there every month. Being over 60 I was treated like a king. We had to go back to Vietnam, because her mom got sick again (Family First). If that had not happened we would still be in Avalon Condominiums today. I love Cebu. Another bonus you can mention is the USA Social Security Administration for Asia is in the Philippines. For a deposit of less than $12,000 in BPI you can live in the Philippines forever. I love CEBU, and the Cebu Business Park (w/Ayala Mall and Landers) most of all.
No doubt Reginald. I think living on less than $2,000 per month is definitely doable for most expats, but 2k provides a very high quality lifestyle. Good to hear that you guys shop at Landers, it's a nice warehouse store. Do they have S & R grocery store there? That's where we typically shop.
@@TheSavvyExpat yes, and it’s similar to Landers. We were close to landers so, it became our go to store for western stuff.
@@TheSavvyExpat
Depending on her lifestyle. If she's a mahjongera ....
😆😆😃😃😄😀😀🤣
What is BPI??
@@CasaBlanca8564 Bank of the Philippine Islands
Cebu and Manila both have some major league prices . I think most people think they're going to live in Shangri-La over there for peanuts, it's not that way. I bought a condo in Manila and I have a house on the province but for a lot of people watching these videos, Cebu and Manila are not really -- Bargains if you want to live a good exciting life. That being said it is what it is and you can live better there than you can America for a lot less money. Your videos are top-notch and you obviously do a lot of research and work, fantastic.
Well said Tommy. No one should expect to live like a baller on $1k a month.
I think you are wrong about Cebu and Manila not offering rent etc for peanuts. First the comp for Cebu and Manila if you're trying to compare their prices to the US prices wouldn't be Athens Georgia or some mid tier US city....It would be NYC or San Francisco. Once you go in with that mind frame you will see that to stay in the best most expensive neighborhoods in those cities you're paying $3000 monthly for a studio up to $10,000+ per month for a 2 bedroom with similar views.
Where in the US can you rent and apartment in the heart of one of Silicon Valley or the big apple for less then $2000 per month. To live a similar big city exciting lifestyle Cebu and Manila are still huge bargains. I could live that lifestyle in Cebu for $3500 - $5000 per month total (rent included). That would be just my rent in NYC or San Francisco.
@@ariefraiser140 a bargain compared to Hawaii
I heard the Philippines doesn't have real milk :(
This a very together young man with bearing and a great demeanor. A top-notch vid with TONS of facts, figures, great information and attractive visuals. Excellent vid,excellent job!
Very informative video for aspiring retired expats who would want to settle in Cebu City.
I love living minimalistic and am happy with small things. This makes me move there more comfortable! :-) I can afford this average, but living small and humble makes me save more money! Thank you for your videos!
Even better! Glad you enjoy the videos
Again, great breakdown. Good job of showing the range of options in a concise format. Cebu is definitely on my short list to check out when I retire.
Right on. It'd be good to hop around the Philippines and check out Cebu for a couple weeks
This is super helpful. Thank you! I am researching Cebu now as a new home after living in Thailand for the last 5 years.
Sir true your message cebu is beautiful
How was it in Thailand?
Love everything about this video, lots of good information, nice and clear visual presentation and above all your cute accent. 😀
It's worth noting that the developments in Cebu is about to snowball soon if you're paying close attention. So the time to invest is now.
Because the market value in real estate is about to skyrocket within the next 5 to 10 years as the infrastructure catches up. Cost of living will too.
Cebu is the country's center hub for tourism, businesses will boom in the years to come. If you're thinking about investing big, now's the time.
This well crafted video and explains each point properly, you earned my like!
big ups! appreciate you
Your video and information is very timely for me. I am one of those Americans approaching retirement with a since of horror. Because of previous jobs in technology, I have contacts in the Cebu "Technology Scene". (Actually, I was laid off and my position went to a talented coworker in Cebu)
My first trip to Cebu is in two weeks, Jul 2. My excitement level is growing as I will actually communicate face to face, opposed to video calls, with former colleagues. Your information is broadening the scope of my visit to include research day to day life in Cebu. It's a long flight from Atlanta to Cebu. I look forward to my time in Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and Manila.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Good video. My current plan is to stay in Cebu for a while. I expect that some areas may be under water in the next decade or two. Condos are mostly safe during hurricanes, but not so much during earthquakes. On the plus side, they offer good security and usually have a backup generator on site and are typically centrally-located for food, shopping and entertainment. Some condos even have restaurants, shops and malls etc. on the lower levels, as well as a gym and play area for kiddos. On the down-side, you may end up with out-of-service elevators often, depending on where you are staying, as well as congested traffic when trying to get around the city. Some places may not offer parking, so that is another consideration for potential costs. Many considerations, some subjective; pros and cons to every place, of course.
Great points. Cebu is a disaster prone area which I find to be one of the major downsides. Aside from that, Cebu City is an ideal place to live for many expats. Thanks for sharing.
I lived in Avalon condos and it would be great in bad situations because Ayala Mall is right across the street ✅
@@rephillips56 Absolutely. Read your other comments, too. Good info. Thanks for sharing.
@@TheSavvyExpat For sure. Maybe difficult to avoid completely since the Phils is basically along the ring of fire. Every place has its pros and cons and would be weighed differently, depending on who you are talking to. I am not sure if I would choose Cebu as my top preference, but it is a good, pragmatic choice for now. Thanks for replying.
Ahhh I miss cebu! Born and raised there. I live in California where everything is expensive af lol
Why go to stupid cali im thinkin on leavin l.a for either cebu or tijuana😊
I’m here in Cebu… not so impressive ! I like that there is a direct flight to Bangkok at least. Plus nearby provinces with epic islands such as Camuiguen
I haven't been to Cebu in like 5 years. Cebu seems to be turning into Manila as another place where many would like to live and to have as many places and tourist attractions to visit lots to see and do in Cebu
100% it's grown a lot in recent years
Thinking I'm priced out of moving there now... Only got $1000/month... Really wanna go but my life in Chiang Mai is very comfortable on $1000/month ... Cebu I might struggle.
*Crap Game*
Your videos are great. They have helped me learn a lot about the Philippines, the culture and the beauty of the land.
Glad to hear that Jeremy 🙌
Thank you so much for this (and all of your other) videos. Most of my pinay friends tell me Cebu is where I should live. But what part of the city would be "best" for someone who likes being close to wet markets and modern malls, but without the big-city chaos a la Bangkok?
Backstory: Me and my girlfriend are relocating from Thailand to the Philippines in November. We have never been there and are going to explore the country and see if 1. We like it there and 2. What part of the country we like the most. Cebu is number one on my list to see and explore and your videos are very helpful!
Definitely Cebu. I’m from the US and been living here in talamban cebu for almost 10 yrs now. It’s very close to malls, schools and wet market with a good mountain view. I even walk every morning to shop fresh produced. I love it here. What’s surprised me the most is the prices are hella wayyy cheap compared to the farmer’s market in the US. We live off a thousand dollar a month as a family of 4 and i save up so much money by just working as a freelancer for a US based tech comp. Beaches and tourist spots is just a few miles away so we enjoy it so much every weekend. Well it’s kinda traffic tho but not really that bad compared to manila traffic and not really chaotic compared to Bangkok.
Good job, Evan. Personally I don't care for apt/condo living. I prefer a house with a yard, etc. Even better, a place in the country but close to the city so you can take advantage of the things available there. Peaceful country living is preferable for me. But hey, everyone likes different things. Keep up the good work.
Mactan Newtown? Lapu Lapu, kind of connected with Cebu City. Close to the airport, hospitals and beaches. App. $400,-
Lapu2x is ghetto to me
We plan to visit cebu next year! Looking forward to it! We met a few cebuanas while on our trip and we love how they speak english so well! LOL
100%... Every Cebuano I've met speaks good english. Did you guys go back to the U.S?
]
@@TheSavvyExpat no. We got back from el nido a few days ago. We r in bgc in seda hotel
@@MultiPasswordman cool, I have a few friends staying there right now. Just gave you an email.
@@TheSavvyExpat cool. I’ll respond to you tonight. We are going to the spa rn
Spent my vacation in Cebu from 8 April 1995 to October 1995.mostly around Fuente Avenue , around d city . Lots of fun then . Since then have been der another 3x 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
You really get around Pat. Good for you!
@@TheSavvyExpat that's life live to d fullest while u can😎🤣
For the majority of expats these seem to be on the high side of what they are expecting as most discussions involve budgets of $1000 to 1500 so these are way out of reach. I have noticed you don't seem to realize most will be living on retirement as they will not be working.
Well said...plus if you are retiring why would you want to live in a business park?
A great video showing the cost of living for Expats looking to live in cebu.
I enjoy visiting there especially IT park.
If you just go off of the websites for rent prices you will only find the expensive ones, you must search on the ground to get the real values.
This is true
Nice work. Thank you!
Pleasures all mine!
Another great one Evan!!!
Thanks Gary!
I love the pacing of your content. Superior work sir!👍
Much appreciated Mark!
Thank you for the great video and the great information. Another great job my friend!
Great Videos, Do you have or plan to have any videos on furnished gated communities/ Apartments/ houses for rent in Cebu? Safest neighborhoods in /near Cebu. Thank You.
“Amazing philippines” Rod has a great channel based in cebu
I live in Seoul, having a small 33m^2 condominium with my partner. We spend also around 2500 usd per month. We traveled to Cebu last summer and found it a lovely city. I didn’t realize it is really not cheap 😮
Great video. Very helpful. 🙏
Your cost of living analysis is probably the most realistic one amongst all others. Would you do a cost of living in Baguio City pls?
Excellent video, very helpful
Cebu Phils is the best for living. Safe place and you can stay easier compare to Manila. Good luck and God bless host! Stay connected
very good video in details perfict
That was wonderful. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it Reynold!
Wonderful video. I enjoyed my many trips to Cebu. I sponsored many seminary students in Cebu.
Thank you for sharing.
Great video man
Great video!
Best COL I have seen especially how you gave so many choices, and examples and visuals of typical spots. Are these furnished and is a one year rental required? Thanks and really professional work by you.
We Love your videos! Very informative! $
Good commentary and realistic in your budget summary. I’m looking at around 4K in pensions so I should be fine 👍
Ty that’s awesome reviews I would like to see a review on Palawan
Thank you so much for sharing information. How about Baguio po, I hope you'll also discuss the cost of living there po.
Good idea.
Hi, planing to move to Cebu & wondering if you could provide me with website that furnished apartments are available?
Salamat
Same here
i
I've lived in the Philippines for 25 years.
Cebu city is not a cheap city to live in, here on the Philippines. Its a great city to live in. .II you can afford it. Eye candy galore. I lived there for 10 years.
very informative excellent video
very nice - thank you
You bet!
Yea on average if you want to live better and being on the high side is o.k. I will want to live on the high side definitely, but dont think buying a condo is for me because I like moving around too much, so like living there in Cebu for a few select months then going to BGC or Makati... basically just traveling around the entire country. Just possibly staying a month or more at any given location. Then when I meet my Filipina it will be for 2 people.😁. Living like a Rockstar 🤩.
I love that Maclovio. Living the high life my friend.
Rent, don’t buy, unless you plan to live in that place forever. The economics don’t work unless you stay for the rest of your life.
@@rephillips56 Agreed. Even if staying in the Phils permanently, I would not opt to buy a condo. The maintenance is not kept up well on them and the long-term valuations will likely depreciate as newer condos pop up, perpetually offering better options. I could be wrong, but land ownership would be a better long-term investment, assuming that it is an option for you.
@@NSAKEY Property ownership is the same everywhere. The location and quality of the developer is what boosts or maintains the value of a condo.
@@NSAKEY depends where and what condo but only the poor people say to rent.
Thanks for the breakdown. I would be curious how much it would cost to live in Dumaguete. There seems to be a large expat community in Dumaguete and up in Valencia.
I come from Bacolod and work here in the US and come back for a vacation for a month or two twice a year. 2000$ is enough for me to hop hotels the whole time and still bring my family out to eat somewhere 4x a week. On an average day to day cost basis for essentials and having someplace to live, you would do much better than I would with apartments or condos since hotels are the most expensive you can pay for housing.
Went to vacation in Dumaguete as well and noticed its not a lot different from Bacolod besides proximity to Cebu.
Noted Darrell. Duma is a huge hot spot for expats and I think the cost of living plays a big role in that.
How about a breakdown of duma please @@TheSavvyExpat
Great information. I'm looking to retire at the end of the year and Cebu area is on my list of possible places to settle down. I might lean toward the IT Park area, being a geek myself, but it looks like even the Business Park area is well within my means as well. I was looking forward to the Star Link services being available around the end of the year, so that would take care of my biggest concern of Internet. The hospital information was particularly good to know as my health insurance does cover me while in the Philippines. Still might look into Pacific Cross as they have that medical debit card option to address the 'pay as you get treated' services.
Just go with local pldt 50 usd is about 150 mbps download and upload.
IT park has a very good internet. No need for Star link.
Yeah $2k USD/month in Cebu is a solid lifestyle. Love the value in SE Asia
For an expat that is not young, the average healthcare insurance is at least 200 USD a month.
Video should be titled 'cost of living in the MOST EXPENSIVE areas in Cebu'.
Good video👍🏴
Thanks for your vid, but these prices are crazy, as are the sales prices for condos, and doesn’t reflect what a middle class professional (eg doctor etc) earns
Hurts hearing Doctors are middle class professionals
True, but if you are not looking to save money but get a better quality of life, Cebu is heaven for an American Expat. $6000 a month goes a long way in Cebu.
Understandable Toby. Living a high quality western/urban lifestyle in the Philippines is naturally going to cost you more. That's just the truth being how rare it is in this country. I'm talking clean streets, high safety, and a quality lifestyle in paradise. Yes, you can live on less than $2k here for sure, but the more you're willing to spend, the more you'll live like a king there.
@@heyitsgerardFair point sir, no offence meant :)
@@rephillips56 $6K a month goes a long way in London where I live!
Entertaining/informative video ... the housing pricing got a bit long (had to skip ahead). Lived in Taipei 25 years ago (for a year), not cheap even then, but usually ate locally and didn't really get the Western food craving ($$) unless a holiday [T-day; Christmas; Easter; ...].
if date of retiring in Philippines is 3-5 years away, going for pre-selling condos would be a good option, and just stick to reputable developers.
How would you compare the same kind of lifestyle in a place like Makati and BGC? What would be the cost in those
What about association dues?...
Are there any golf courses in or around Cebu , how many and how far from city center
Evan please tell me what the website was that you were looking at
Do all these places have hot water available in the showers?
10usd for a movie? In many ways cebu seems cheaper than Cambodia or Vietnam but that's a lot for the cinema. I go a few times a week to dodge the midday heat in Asia so its definitely something I'd think about
how much are utilities like electric and water and is furniture expensive?
I love cebu it’s not cheap there and comparable to Manila prices it has great food and people and it’s more laid back than the metropolitan city Manila.
when you go outside of Cebu City yes it’s laid back when when you talk of Cebu City, it is as cosmopolitan as Manila
I know better than that I lived here 10 year's. You can find house for 6k $120 dollars.
Yes
For locals like me living here in Cebu City. It is an expensive city. But for foreigners you can afford it.
Can you do international schools i want to come with my family?
What does it cost to play golf in Philippines? How much are memberships?
@@jonoda894 Most golfers are at the course at 6am, have a leisurely breakfast then Tee off by 7am. 18 holes complete by 10am. This includes snacks and drinks every four holes. Golf carts and caddies make the game a lot more relaxing. A nice one hour massage in an air-conditioned lemon grass smelling room caps off the morning. I've never had an issue with the heat playing in the morning. It's the same routine in Thailand, China, HK, etc
If you know someone with a membership, course fee that I paid was 1,500 pesos. Add around 1K to 1.5K pesos for the golf cart and caddie fee. If you don't know a member expect to pay 3K to 7K pesos for the course fee if the resort accepts non-members. A lot of hotels will happily arrange transport and reservations for you. The figures I mentioned are pre-Covid
I agree with that video but if u spend that much $2.6k or P130k per month u should be able to buy ur own house.
retiring ssi 1700 a month looking to rent on beach is that possible
Can you please post places where diabetes people can buy their low carb, sugar free food? Looking forward to watch it . Thank you😊🙏
Noted ✅️
@@TheSavvyExpat thank you so much😊very much appreciated 🥰
There's a store called Healthy Options. They're in most major malls in Metro Manila
@@robocop581 thank you for the info😊🙏
how is newton and lapu lapu?
instead of people saying how much it cost to live in the filipines...they should say THE COST OF THEIR LIFESTYLE...this takes into consideration location, type of living quarter (house/apt/condo, etc...), food (grocery/takeout/dining), transportation, basic needs (rent cost, water/electric bill/internet/mobile phone, etc)...etc...everyone has a different lifestyle, needs, and wants...telling us what ur lifestyle is, im able to select those lifestyle that is similar to mines, and i'll have a more complete idea of how much i will need...i dont need to know someones lifestyle cost that is nowhere near my lifestyle cost.
can someone tell me what it this page he is looking for apartamts pleaseeeeeeeeeeeee
I wish you could tell me are advise me. About any Agency that could help me get my SRRV. I want to come visit the Philippine. First but while I am there. I want to put in for a STRV. Help my friend you are the best. I love watching your videos. Take care always
Appreciate the support Rick. I'll make a video soon on SRRV visas and I'll add in some agencies to help you out. Stay on the look out for that!
@@TheSavvyExpat thank you my friend. You got to be one of the best I have every meant. You do a great job on your video. Keep up the good work. I hope to meet you one day for coffee or lunch. It’s all on me my friend
In Cebu it is JR Visa Consultants. ua-cam.com/video/D6EnW7AP0Ck/v-deo.html
@@rickmccarroll9993 Likewise Rick. Hope to bump into some time!
I beg to disagree cebu now is very expensive comparable to quezon city, in terms of per kilowatt hour of electricity, water bill, foods and rent. I live here btw. I also experience living in manila...
I think Cebu's only advantage over Manila right now is property price as they're about 25% below the top end price of luxury properties in CBDs in Metro Manila which range from 385K to 420K psm
@@robocop581 yes. But condos in cebu is almost the same in makati price range.
@Love Go look at price of a PH condo at Shangri-La BGC. Can you find a condo in Cebu that's worth 450 million pesos?
Are we talking American dollars? From Australia 🇦🇺 here
Aloha,
I hope you’re well.
I’ll be staying for a month in a hotel in Cebu, while searching for a long term stay condo.
Does anyone here has information about how to get the local rate at the hotels in Cebu?
I’m still in USA and will travel to move on December this year,
Thanks, 🙏🏽
For those on a budget Vagabond Awake just put out a video called $962 Month Cost of Living Cebu in Philippines. He is spending 6 months there. I would like to hear your critique of his claims.
While it’s most definitely possible to live on $1k per month in cebu, you’re by no means going to be living like a “king.” I wouldn’t even say that’s living.
I spend there 3 weeks and it cost me 3 K ,but I did have great time ,so Vagabound guy is full of shit .No westerner can live like a local in Cebu . His whole game is to get a views and subscribers so he tells them exactly what they want to hear . In other words he is "selling the dream" reality however is different .So I believe that in Phillipines is better to live in province or smaller city than chaotic big city like Cebu .
@@TheSavvyExpatThat is surviving in Cebu ...
They charge more to expats plus I live In NYC so I know
I did not experience "the foreigner price" where I shopped. The stores in Ayala Mall and Landers had the same price for all.
@@rephillips56 That's why I recommend most foreigners to shop at established places i.e malls, landers, S & R, etc. I think many foreigners get charged the "skin tax" at wet markets.
In most cases, foreigners can have their partner or a local employee purchase and negotiate. No involvement required and the cost-savings could be enough to cover the cost of having a maid (or whatever) in the first place.
Wow that’s more than I pay back home
Is Iloilo cheaper cost of living then Cebu City!?
Yes
"I think living on less than $2,000 per month is definitely doable for most expats"
the average minimun wage in spain is less than $800 after taxes, you must have a good tech job, own business back in the west to retire to PH, or a good pension
i have no idea how people can survive there with average wage of $300, most of the time not even $150
New sub pride philippines
Rent can go as low as $100 in Cebu city proper.
Can go below that if you go outside such as Mandaue or Talisay
true but you get what you pay for
@@TheSavvyExpat most Filipinos live on less than $300 a month.
Its nicer to live in the provinces and not in big cities in the philippines......provinces has cities and countryside lifestyles.......you can live there comfortably with just $1,000 a month . You can get a mortgage and car loans with that small incone.I grew up in a province and everything youll need is there...
Can you help me find a agent in the Philippine. To help me get my SSRV. I really want to move there my friend you are great. Take care always
Hi Rick, I'm currently getting connected to agents, real estate brokers, you name it. The Savvy Expat will be a one stop shop for all expats moving to PH, just sit tight. In the meantime, my email is evan@thesavvyexpat.com so if you want to contact me personally, I can try to make a few recommendations
Here is the best person I know: ua-cam.com/video/D6EnW7AP0Ck/v-deo.html
I'm moving to cebu in Mandani Bay. What about that place for renting? Even though I'm buying a condo there.
Mandani Bay is in North Reclamation Area in Mandaue City, which is a bit outside Cebu City. While a bit far from the Cebu City center, it's still near malls (SM City and Parkmall) and the port area, and Mandaue is not bad in terms of cost of living. Although transportation may be an issue as public transport is pretty far and in between.
@@KennethPorio when you’re talking of someone outside of the Philippines, that distance is not considered far.
So rent is not that cheap. As I’m by myself I’d have to live in a tiny hovel by the looks of it. That first condo looks awful with the bathroom opening on to the kitchen. No thanks
How about mindanao
Not as cheap as I thought. Thailand may be cheaper
Used to live back of Rose Pharmacy Fuente Branch.
Left Cebu City for Australia August 18, 1980.
Too congested now. Concrete jungle everywhere.
No more peace and quiet and open air.
😉
What time did you leave Cebu on August 18, 1980 and what was the temperature on that day?
@@robocop581
CORRECTION!!!!!
Left Cebu August 17 ... temperature was hot and humid (I think) ... arrived Manila in the afternoon. Plane was delayed. Left Manila following day during the wee hours of the morning. Arrived Melbourne for a stopover ... then, Sydney in the afternoon of August 18, 1980.
Should have taken the Qantas. But heard that food was better with PAL.
Yeah, I took the PAL plane Reminds me of the acronym PAL, Inc. Stands for Plane Always Late, If Not Cancelled.
😂🤣😀😅😁😁😃😃
I was still a bachelor.
🤣
@@tanaltricio7832 you are wrong about "concrete jungle everywhere" and "no more peace and quiet and open air" in Cebu City my friend.
Cebu City is 80% mountains and 20% urban. You can go up in the mountains if you want to. There's a lot of tourist spots in the mountains of Cebu City like flower gardens, mountain resorts, rivers, waterfalls, restaurants and cafe with overlooking views of the mountains and the city. If you want to relax and unwind go up in the highlands of Cebu City.
Good video but all the prices are high end. Of course if you want to spend a lot of money it's definitely possible just like anywhere else but I just moved out of a new studio condo in IT Park and was paying month to month $300. A long term lease would have been much cheaper. My family of 3 living in or near Cebu IT Park with the modern conveniences but not extravagant was under $1k per month.
Angeles City please.
Palawan break down on expenses please
I need to know Palawan too🤔
CEBUUUU