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Philippines

Manila

Philippines' capital with English-speaking population and dedicated nomad visa

In Manila, a mid-range month runs about $1,421 (₱89,301) and there is some violent crime city-wide.

Scores run from 1 to 10 and compare each place with every other destination on Nomadr. Higher is always better. Cost is shown as a level, from Very Low to Very High.

Cost (day-to-day)Very Low

Cheaper day to day than about 85% of cities

Internet1.6/10

Slower internet than about 85% of cities

Visas7/10

Easier visas than about 75% of cities

Coworking8.4/10

Better coworking than about 80% of cities

English8/10

More English-friendly than about 70% of cities

Walkability2.1/10

Harder to get around than about 85% of cities

Gyms & Wellness8.2/10

Better wellness options than about 80% of cities

Getting There4.4/10

Harder to reach than about 65% of cities

Scores are built from researched data, with sources cited on the categories we have them for — open any category below to see them.

31 categories for Manila, grouped for quick scanning — coverage varies from city to city. Open any row for the full detail and any cited sources.

The honest downsides

What we'd want to know before moving here.

Data last updated September 2026 · Verify anything important.

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  • Boracay, PhilippinesThe Philippines' premier kite/windsurf capital, with genuine scuba, freediving, and nightlife too.
  • El Nido, PhilippinesLimestone-cliff dive and surf destination with genuine freediving and kite access nearby.
  • Moalboal, PhilippinesFamous for its sardine run, with real dedicated scuba and freediving infrastructure.
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  • Siargao, PhilippinesWorld-famous Cloud 9 surf break with a genuinely deep nomad, dive, freediving, and kite scene.