🇵🇭 Southeast Asia
Cities & towns in Philippines
Where you land inside Philippines matters more than the country itself. Browse the most popular cities for American expats, or take a 60-second quiz to surface the top 5 that fit your lifestyle.
Find your city in Philippines
Answer 8 quick questions about pace, beaches, transit, and budget — we'll rank the top 5 cities.
Manila
Pop. ~13M metro
Sprawling, intense capital — best access to healthcare, jobs, and flights.
Walkability
4/10
Beach access
2/10
Expat community
8/10
Housing cost
4/10
Cebu City
Pop. ~960,000
Second city — easier than Manila, with beaches and diving close by.
Walkability
5/10
Beach access
7/10
Expat community
7/10
Housing cost
3/10
Dumaguete
Pop. ~135,000
Small university and retiree town on Negros Island — calm and affordable.
Walkability
7/10
Beach access
8/10
Expat community
8/10
Housing cost
2/10
Siargao
Pop. ~100,000
Surf island that became the country's top digital-nomad hub.
Walkability
5/10
Beach access
10/10
Expat community
8/10
Housing cost
3/10
Baguio
Pop. ~370,000
Mountain summer capital — cooler weather, university town vibe, walkable center.
Walkability
7/10
Beach access
1/10
Expat community
5/10
Housing cost
3/10