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Living in Davao: the ultimate expat guide

Living in Davao: the ultimate expat guide

Everything you need to know for a successful life in Davao.

Nicknamed the "Fruit Basket of the Philippines" due to the production and export of a range of fruits, Davao is one of the country's most vibrant and prosperous cities. Located on Mindanao Island, it is deemed to be a main hub for commercial exchange.

Davao is the ideal destination for expatriates looking forward to take a break and discover new cultures. Indeed, it is very welcoming towards expatriates.

Key figures

Population1.8 million
Expats30,000-40,000
Top nationalitiesChinese, American, Japanese, Korean, Indian
LanguagesFilipino, Cebuano, English
Monthly cost of living
1 person$900
Family of 4$2,400
Veedushi Bissessur
Guide updated by

A journalist, holder of the DALF C1 and C2 and a diploma from the University of Mauritius, I have nearly twenty years of writing experience. After six years in the Mauritian press, I joined Expat.com, where I have been working for over a decade, including five years as editorial assistant, and now as editorial manager.

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