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What it's actually like here
If you're eyeing a genuinely affordable digital nomad base, this southern Philippine city is a strong contender. With 1-bedroom apartments in the city center around $300, and $220 outside, your rent won't break the bank. Meals are incredibly cheap too, with a local spot costing just $2. This makes it ideal for budget-conscious nomads or those looking to stretch their earnings further. Internet speeds are decent at 55 Mbps, and reliability is fair, though perhaps not rock-solid for constant video calls. The city boasts good air quality and high English proficiency, making daily life and settling in easier. A small but present nomad community and five coworking spaces mean you won’t be entirely alone. The honest caveat? While safety is good, walkability is only so-so, meaning you'll likely rely on Grab or other transport more than your feet.
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Who this suits
Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Davao.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Davao as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Davao averages around $300 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Philippines sits at 36 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Davao safe for digital nomads?+
Davao scores 70/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.
How fast is the internet in Davao?+
Headline average internet speed in Davao is around 55 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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