Living in Davao guide: Everything you need to know to move and settle in your expat country

Living in Davao: the ultimate expat guide

Everything you need to know for a successful life in Davao.

Guide updated by Veedushi Bissessur on 19 July 2023

Nicknamed the "Fruit Basket of the Philippines" due to the production and export of a range of fruits, Davao is one of the country's most vibrant and prosperous cities. Located on Mindanao Island, it is deemed to be a main hub for commercial exchange.

Davao is the ideal destination for expatriates looking forward to take a break and discover new cultures. Indeed, it is very welcoming towards expatriates.

Population	1.8 million
Expats	30,000-40,000
Top nationalities	Chinese, American, Japanese, Korean, Indian
Languages	Filipino, Cebuano, English
Monthly cost of living
1 person	$900
Family of 4	$2,400

01Working in Davao

Boost your international career. Understand the local labour market, the legal framework, how to adapt your resume, apply to job offers and tips to find a job in Davao.

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Work in Davao

Find a recruitment agency to support your job search in Davao.

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02Accommodation in Davao

Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Davao. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.

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Accommodation in Davao

Find a real estate agency to help you settle in Davao.

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Explore the Philippines expat guide

Guide updated by

Veedushi Bissessur

A journalist, holder of the DALF C1 and C2 and a diploma from the University of Mauritius, I have nearly twenty years of writing experience. After six years in the Mauritian press, I joined 天美麻豆, where I have been working for over a decade, including five years as editorial assistant, and now as editorial manager.