Data updated Oct 8, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 76)
Iloilo sits on the island of Panay in the Philippines, a city of 2.1 million people built barely above the water at an elevation of 2 m. Its tropical wet and dry climate keeps temperatures consistently warm, with a dry season running from January to May, so packing for heat and rain alike makes sense year round. The timezone is Asia/Manila. Expats tend to settle in Mandurriao and Jaro, two neighborhoods that balance access to the city with a quieter residential feel.
Living costs here land well below what most Westerners expect. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center runs $312/mo, dropping to $250/mo outside the center, while a three-bedroom in the center costs $1,199/mo and $430/mo farther out. Utilities come to $63/mo, internet $27/mo, and a mobile phone plan $10/mo. A monthly public transport pass costs $5/mo and a gym membership $10/mo. Eating out is cheap: an inexpensive restaurant meal is $3 per person, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $19, and a cappuccino is $2. A single adult can live on a budget tier of $367/mo including rent, step up to $509/mo mid-range, or settle into $612/mo comfortable, with monthly costs excluding rent at $425/mo for one person and $1,528/mo for a family of four. The average monthly net salary locally is $203/mo, and the cost of living index sits at 35/100 against New York City at 100.
Safety is moderate, with a safety index of 60/100 and a crime index of 40/100, where lower is safer. Air quality is reasonable at an index of 48, again lower being better. Healthcare quality is rated fair, and English proficiency is common in tourist areas, which eases everyday errands and medical visits for newcomers. Average internet speed reaches 18 Mbps, workable for most remote tasks though not blazing.
For longer stays, the Philippines SRRV Retirement Visa requires a minimum monthly income of $1,500/mo, and remote workers can look to the Philippines SEZ Remote Work Visa (PEZA Zone). The nearest airport is ILO, 27 km away. With an overall expat score of 76/100, a FIRE score of 78/100, a retiree score of 59/100, a digital nomad score of 59/100, and a medium expat community, Iloilo suits budget-conscious retirees and early retirees most, while digital nomads and working expats will find it comfortable if they can tolerate modest internet speeds and a smaller social scene.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Iloilo, Philippines. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Iloilo at the budget tier comes to about $467 a month for one adult, with $250 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $80.00 on groceries, $11.00 on dining out, $21.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $100 on utilities and connectivity and $5.00 on transport.
Rent
$250/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$80.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$11.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$21.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$100/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$5.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Iloilo at the mid-range tier comes to about $534 a month for one adult, with $250 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $107 on groceries, $28.00 on dining out, $44.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $100 on utilities and connectivity and $5.00 on transport.
Rent
$250/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$107/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$28.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$44.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$100/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$5.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Iloilo at the comfortable tier comes to about $711 a month for one adult, with $312 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $150 on groceries, $74.00 on dining out, $70.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $100 on utilities and connectivity and $5.00 on transport.
Rent
$312/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$150/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$74.00/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$70.00/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$100/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$5.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $312.16/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
See low-fee transfersWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Iloilo's cost of living compares with Roxas
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Iloilo is generally perceived as one of the Philippines' safer cities, with a relaxed provincial atmosphere that feels noticeably calmer than Manila or Cebu. Daytime walking is straightforward in commercial and residential areas; nighttime safety depends heavily on location. Most expats report feeling reasonably secure in established neighborhoods like Jaro and Mandurriao, though vigilance remains necessary—this isn't a risk-free environment.
Petty theft and pickpocketing occur, especially in markets, jeepneys, and crowded areas; secure valuables and avoid displaying expensive items. Scams targeting foreigners exist but are less aggressive than in tourist hotspots. Violent crime is uncommon but not absent. Solo female travelers should exercise standard precautions: avoid isolated areas after dark, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and be cautious in the port district. Robbery and home break-ins happen occasionally, particularly in less-developed barangays.
The Philippines' political environment is stable relative to regional peers, though corruption within police and local government is documented. Police reliability varies; serious crimes may be investigated, but minor incidents often go unresolved. Iloilo has not experienced significant protest activity or civil unrest recently. For Americans considering relocation, Iloilo offers a genuine safety advantage over larger Philippine cities—it's genuinely livable for expats willing to adopt sensible precautions, not a fortress but a reasonable choice for remote workers or retirees seeking affordability and community.
Iloilo has a safety index of 60/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
Compare travel insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Iloilo's healthcare compares with Roxas
Tropical wet and dry climate; consistently warm with a dry season from Jan to May.
Iloilo offers a picturesque setting with emerging digital facilities.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Regus Iloilo | A reliable international brand offering professional coworking spaces with various membership options. Located in the Iloilo Business Park, it provides a convenient and accessible workspace for expats. |
| Workplace Cafe | A popular local coworking cafe known for its affordable rates and unlimited coffee. Located in Jaro, Iloilo City, it's a great option for budget-conscious digital nomads looking for a casual and social atmosphere. |
| Kredo Coworking Space | Offers a comfortable and productive environment with essential amenities like fast internet and printing services. Situated in Iloilo City Proper, it's easily accessible and provides a focused workspace for remote professionals. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Iloilo long-term? Philippines SEZ Remote Work Visa (PEZA Zone) lets remote workers live legally.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Iloilo? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Iloilo's digital nomad life compares with Roxas
A clean, safe city with high English literacy; often rated as one of the most livable cities in the Philippines.
Areas of Iloilo that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Modern, commercial, convenient living
Mandurriao is a rapidly developing district with many condos, malls, and restaurants. It's popular with young professionals and expats due to its accessibility and modern amenities. While convenient, it can be busy and less traditionally Filipino.
Historic, charming, residential district
Molo is known for its beautiful church and historic mansions. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Mandurriao, with a mix of residential areas and local businesses. It's a good option for those seeking a quieter, more traditional Filipino experience, but transport is needed to reach major commercial areas.
Relaxed, coastal, seafood haven
Arevalo is located along the coast and is famous for its seafood restaurants and sunset views. It's a more affordable option with a slower pace of life. While charming, it's further from the city center and public transport options are more limited.
Bustling, historical, commercial center
The City Proper is the heart of Iloilo, with historical landmarks, government buildings, and a vibrant commercial scene. It's walkable and has good public transport, but can be crowded and noisy. Offers a mix of old and new, but may lack green spaces.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $312/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.
Compare health insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Earning over $1,500/mo? You may qualify for a Philippines visa.
Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Click any question to expand the answer.
Cost-of-living and visa updates for Iloilo and the rest of Philippines. Free with RA Postcards.
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to RA Postcards and special offers from Rewire Abroad and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.