City Guide 2026
Philippines
Living in Davao
Everything you need to know about cost of living, visas, taxes, climate, and lifestyle in Davao, Philippines.
Monthly Cost (Solo)
$895
Rent + groceries + bills
Safety Score
71/100
Low crime
Avg Temperature
27°C
81°F average
Tourist Visa
30 days
DN visa available
Internet Speed
65 Mbps
Good
Cost of Living in Davao
Rent Prices (USD/month)
| Apartment | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $375 | $244 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,200 | $780 |
Source: Numbeo, crowd-sourced data.
Groceries
$200/month
Healthcare
$150/month
Utilities
$120/month
Transport
$50/month
Climate in Davao
Monthly Average Temperature (°C)
Jan
26.4°
Feb
26.6°
Mar
27.1°
Apr
27.6°
May
27.8°
Jun
27.4°
Jul
27.2°
Aug
27.3°
Sep
27.3°
Oct
27.2°
Nov
27°
Dec
26.7°
Air Quality (AQI)
42
Good
Avg Rain Days/mo
14
days per month
Beach Distance
0 km
to nearest coast
Mountains
0 km
to nearest range
Lifestyle in Davao
Walkability
60/100
Internet Speed
65 Mbps
Cultural Score
65/100
Nightlife
35/100
Outdoor Activities
48/100
English Proficiency
80/100
Expat Community
medium
Transit Quality
good
Coworking Spaces
3+
LGBTQ+ Friendly
moderate
Tax Overview in Philippines
Tax System
Worldwide (taxes global income)
Tax residency threshold: 183 days/year · Treaty network: excellent
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Capital Gains (Long-term) | 6% |
| Capital Gains (Short-term) | 15% |
| Dividend Tax | 6% |
| Interest Income | 6% |
| Wealth Tax | None |
| Crypto Gains | 0% (exempt) |
| Exit Tax | No |
| Estate Tax | No |
Special Regime: Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)
Tax rates are estimates. Consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Davao?
A comfortable solo lifestyle in Davao costs approximately $895-1,432/month for a single person or couple, covering housing in the city center, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and transport. Rent for a 1-bedroom in the center averages $375/month.
Is Davao safe for expats?
Davao has a safety index of 71/100 (higher is safer). Davao has moderate safety levels. Standard precautions are recommended, especially at night in less-trafficked areas. Healthcare quality is rated 85/100.
What is the weather like in Davao?
Davao has an average annual temperature of 27°C (81°F). The warmest months reach 27.8°C and the coolest drop to 26.4°C. Air quality is good with an average AQI of 42.
What is the internet speed in Davao?
Average internet speed in Davao is 65 Mbps, which is good enough for most remote work needs. There are 3+ coworking spaces available.
What taxes will I pay living in Philippines?
Philippines uses a worldwide tax system. Capital gains are taxed at 6% (long-term) and dividends at 6%. There is no wealth tax. Tax residency kicks in after 183 days/year. A special regime (Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV)) may offer reduced rates.
Can I get a digital nomad visa in Davao?
Yes, Philippines offers a digital nomad visa valid for 12 months. The residency pathway is: 1 year for 13a probationary; immediate for SIRV/SRRV after fund verification..
Is Davao good for digital nomads?
Davao has decent internet at 65 Mbps, a medium expat community, and 3+ coworking spaces. English proficiency is high at 80/100. The cost of living index is 22/100 (NYC = 100), making it very affordable for remote workers.
Can You Retire on $X in Davao?
Run the FIRE math for Davao against the most-searched portfolio milestones — honest yes/no/tight verdicts with the numbers behind them.
Compare Davao with other cities
See what your money actually buys across housing, food, healthcare, and more with our lifestyle purchasing power tool.