Cebu City, located in the heart of the Philippines, is a thriving hub that blends modern urban living with tropical island vibes. Known as the “Queen City of the South,” Cebu offers stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living for digital nomads in Cebu City.
1. Accommodation Costs in Cebu City
Cebu City offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly shared apartments to modern condos with city views.
- Co-Living Spaces: $200–$400/month
- Studio Apartments: $300–$600/month
- Mid-Range Apartments: $700–$1,200/month
- Luxury Apartments: $1,500–$2,500/month
Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:
- IT Park: A bustling area with coworking spaces and restaurants.
- Cebu Business Park: Ideal for professionals and near Ayala Center.
- Mactan Island: For those who prefer a more relaxed, beachside atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Use platforms like Lamudi or Rentpad to find rental options.
2. Food and Dining
Cebu is a food haven, offering everything from traditional Filipino fare to international cuisines.
- Street Food: $1–$3 per meal (e.g., lechon, puso)
- Local Restaurants: $3–$8 per meal
- Western Restaurants: $10–$20 per meal
- Groceries for a Month: $150–$250
Must-Try Foods: Cebu lechon (roast pig), ngohiong, and danggit (dried fish).
Pro Tip: For authentic local food, explore Larsian BBQ or Carbon Market.
3. Transportation
Transportation in Cebu City is affordable but can be time-consuming due to traffic.
- Jeepneys: $0.20–$0.50 per ride
- Ride-Hailing (Grab): $2–$8 per trip
- Car Rentals: $300–$500/month
- Scooter Rentals: $50–$100/month
Pro Tip: Grab is reliable for convenience, but jeepneys are the most budget-friendly option for short trips.
4. Co-Working Spaces and Internet
Cebu City is home to a growing number of coworking spaces with stable internet.
- Coworking Memberships: $100–$200/month
- Day Pass: $10–$20/day
- Home Internet: $30–$50/month
Top Co-Working Spaces:
- A Space Cebu
- The Company Cebu
- WorkLab
Pro Tip: IT Park is a hotspot for coworking spaces and cafes with good Wi-Fi.
5. Entertainment and Lifestyle
From island hopping to historical sites, Cebu City offers plenty of activities for nomads.
- Fitness Memberships: $30–$60/month
- Cultural Sites: $1–$5 (e.g., Magellan’s Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño)
- Island Hopping: $30–$100 (e.g., Malapascua, Bantayan)
- Nightlife: Drinks at bars start at $2–$5.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the Taoist Temple for panoramic city views.
- Take a ferry to Mactan Island for snorkeling and diving.
- Explore the Kawasan Falls.
6. Visa and Other Expenses
The Philippines offers flexible visa options for digital nomads.
- Tourist Visa: $30–$60 (valid for 30 days, extendable)
- Long-Stay Visa: $150–$300
- Health Insurance: $30–$60/month
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $50–$100/month
Pro Tip: Check out the Philippine Immigration Bureau for visa extensions and requirements.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Cebu City
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $300–$1,200 |
| Food and Dining | $150–$400 |
| Transportation | $50–$150 |
| Co-Working/Internet | $100–$250 |
| Entertainment/Lifestyle | $100–$300 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$150 |
| Total | $750–$2,450 |
Why Cebu City is a Great Choice for Digital Nomads
Cebu City’s affordability, tropical charm, and convenient access to beaches and islands make it a top destination for digital nomads. With a thriving expat community and a balance of work and leisure, Cebu City is a fantastic place to set up your digital base.
Want to see the cost of living in other cities in the Philippines? Go back to our guide to being a digital nomad in the Philippines and see the full list.
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