Makati, Philippines
📊 Scores
Banking, finance, and multinational corporations drive Makati's economy, with the Philippine Stock Exchange and headquarters of major banks like BDO and Metrobank anchoring the central business district. The city hosts regional offices for companies like Procter & Gamble, Unilever, and Shell, creating white-collar jobs in finance, consulting, and corporate services. With the Philippines' highest GDP per capita at ₱1.78 million ($31,800), locals work primarily in banking, real estate, retail management, and professional services, though income inequality remains stark between corporate executives and service workers.
Expect to pay $950+ monthly for a decent 1BR in the city center, with luxury condos reaching $2,000+. The MRT connects you to other Metro Manila districts for ₱15-30 per ride, though rush hour crowds are brutal and trains break down regularly. Healthcare is solid with top-tier hospitals like Makati Medical Center, but consultations run $30-80. English is widely spoken in business districts, making daily life manageable, though government bureaucracy still requires patience and multiple trips for permits or visas.
Year-round heat and humidity hit 32°C+ with heavy monsoon rains June through November that flood streets regularly. The food scene spans from ₱50 street food to high-end restaurants in Greenbelt and Glorietta malls, while rooftop bars and clubs cater to the expat finance crowd. Weekends mean mall-hopping, island day trips to Batangas, or escaping to Tagaytay's cooler mountains. This city works best for corporate professionals who prioritize career opportunities over cost savings and don't mind trading tropical charm for urban convenience.
🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
Grocery Basket
Eating Out
Utilities & Lifestyle
Housing
💰 Real Spend Reports
🛡️ Safety & Crime
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
Makati is the safest major district in Metro Manila and feels noticeably secure compared to surrounding areas. Well-lit streets, heavy security presence, and affluent neighborhoods create a comfortable day-to-day environment. Night walking is generally safe in central business and residential zones, though most expats use ride-sharing apps after dark as a precaution rather than necessity. The city's reputation as a financial hub attracts professional expats who report feeling at ease.
Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded areas and public transport, particularly targeting tourists and visibly wealthy individuals. Scams involving fake taxis, overpriced services, and online fraud targeting expats are documented. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics. Solo female travelers report feeling safer here than in other Philippine cities, though standard urban caution applies. Certain peripheral areas and informal settlements warrant avoidance, but main expat zones (Makati CBD, Salcedo Village, Legaspi Village) are well-patrolled.
The Philippines has low political instability compared to regional peers, and Makati specifically benefits from strong corporate security infrastructure and police presence. Corruption exists but rarely affects expat daily life directly. Police are generally responsive in this district. The main risk is petty crime rather than systemic danger. For Americans aged 30–65 considering relocation, Makati ranks among the Philippines' most livable and secure options, suitable for remote work and retirement with standard urban precautions.
🏥 Healthcare
🌤️ Climate
Best Months
Climate Notes
Makati has a tropical climate with hot, humid conditions year-round, a wet monsoon season from June to October, and a drier season from November to May.
💻 Digital Nomad
Community Notes
| Name | Price/mo | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clock In | $150 | Clock In offers a modern and professional coworking environment in Makati. With multiple locations, it provides flexible workspace solutions, high-speed internet, and meeting rooms, making it ideal for digital nomads seeking a productive workspace. |
| WeWork RCBC Plaza | $300 | Located in the heart of Makati's business district, WeWork RCBC Plaza provides a premium coworking experience. It features stylish workspaces, networking opportunities, and a vibrant community, perfect for expats looking to connect with other professionals. |
| Acceler8 | $200 | Acceler8 offers a sophisticated coworking space in Makati, designed to foster collaboration and innovation. With ergonomic furniture, high-speed internet, and a central location, it's a great option for remote workers seeking a professional and comfortable environment. |
| The Office Project | $180 | The Office Project provides a creative and collaborative coworking space in Salcedo Village, Makati. It offers flexible workspace options, meeting rooms, and a supportive community, making it suitable for digital nomads looking for a vibrant and inspiring workspace. |
🧳 Expat Life
Expat Life Notes
The primary corporate and expat hub of the Philippines, offering a highly developed lifestyle and world-class dining.
Pros
- ✓ Native-level English prevalence
- ✓ Modern skyline and amenities
- ✓ Vibrant expat social circles
Cons
- ✗ High traffic congestion
- ✗ Expensive housing
- ✗ High urban density
Could living/working in Makati cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $760/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.