Living in Iloilo: the ultimate expat guide

Iloilo City has emerged as a significant economic hub in Western Visayas, with a gross domestic product of ₱171.57 billion (2024). The city offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple sectors, making it increasingly attractive to professionals seeking career growth outside Metro Manila.

Key Employment Sectors

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry dominates Iloilo's job market, with major companies like TTEC, Teleperformance, Concentrix, and Alorica operating large facilities. The sector accounts for over 3,700 local jobs according to the city's Public Employment Service Office. Other key industries include port management, telecommunications, banking, retail, real estate, healthcare, and education. The city's high literacy rate and numerous university graduates make it attractive to employers seeking skilled English-speaking workers.

Work Permits for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines must obtain an Alien Employment Permit (AEP) from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Additionally, a 9(g) Pre-arranged Employment Visa is required for long-term work assignments. Some visa categories, including the SRRV retirement visa, permit holders to work provided they secure an AEP.

Sources: Numbeo 2025, Philippine News Agency

Iloilo City is recognized as an education hub in Western Visayas, home to some of the Philippines' most respected universities. The city produces thousands of graduates annually, many achieving high board examination passing rates in medicine, nursing, engineering, and education.

Top Universities

University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) is the region's premier public institution, part of the national UP system. It excels in marine science, fisheries, biology, and environmental studies. Filipino students benefit from free tuition under Republic Act 10931, while international students pay approximately USD 2,500 per year. The main campus is located in Miagao (about 40 km from the city), with a smaller campus in Iloilo City proper.

Central Philippine University (CPU) is a private Christian university with one of the largest and most beautiful campuses in Iloilo. It offers strong programs in health sciences, engineering, agriculture, and business, with international linkages and hospital partnerships.

University of San Agustin (USA) is among the oldest institutions in Western Visayas, known for programs in nursing, pharmacy, architecture, engineering, and liberal arts. West Visayas State University (WVSU) is a respected public university offering affordable quality education across multiple disciplines.

Admission for International Students

International students must submit authenticated academic records, proof of English proficiency, and a student visa. Tuition for foreigners typically ranges from USD 2,500 to USD 4,000 annually depending on the institution and program. Application deadlines vary, so early inquiry is recommended.

Sources: University of the Philippines Visayas, Central Philippine University

The Philippines is one of Asia's most popular retirement destinations, and Iloilo City offers retirees an excellent combination of affordable living, quality healthcare, warm climate, and welcoming community. The country's Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) program provides a straightforward path to long-term residence.

SRRV Retirement Visa Options

The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) offers several SRRV categories for foreign nationals aged 50 and above (35+ for former Filipino citizens). The most common options include:

1. SRRV Smile – USD 20,000 deposit for those 50+ without pension (non-convertible to investment)
2. SRRV Classic – USD 10,000 deposit for those 50+ with pension of at least USD 800/month (single) or USD 1,000/month (couple); deposit convertible to real estate investment
3. SRRV Courtesy – USD 1,500 deposit for former Filipino citizens and retired diplomats/military

Benefits include indefinite stay with multiple entry privileges, exemption from exit clearance and travel tax (for stays under one year), tax-free pension remittances, and duty-free importation of household goods up to USD 7,000.

Healthcare for Retirees

Iloilo offers quality healthcare facilities including The Medical City Iloilo (cardiac and wellness programs), Iloilo Doctors' Hospital (300-bed Level 3 teaching hospital), Healthway QualiMed, and Metro Iloilo Hospital. Private health insurance valid in the Philippines is required for SRRV applications. Many expats maintain comprehensive international health coverage while using local facilities for routine care.

Sources: Philippine Retirement Authority, The Medical City Iloilo

Iloilo City offers a growing selection of quality schools for expatriate families, including international schools with globally recognized curricula and well-established local institutions. While the city has fewer international school options than Manila or Cebu, the available choices provide excellent education standards.

International and Bilingual Schools

Stonyhurst Southville International School – Iloilo (SSISM) is the city's leading international school, offering a K-12 program with International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Located in Balabag, Pavia (about 15 minutes from the city center), it provides state-of-the-art facilities, multicultural environment, and extensive extracurricular activities. Annual tuition ranges from ₱150,000 to ₱300,000 depending on grade level.

Ateneo de Iloilo – Santa Maria Catholic School is a Jesuit institution offering quality education grounded in Christian values, with a Chinese language program as part of its bilingual offerings. Hua Siong College of Iloilo is one of the region's oldest Chinese schools, providing bilingual education in English and Mandarin with strong mathematics and science programs.

Local Quality Schools

Philippine Science High School – Western Visayas Campus offers an advanced science and mathematics curriculum for gifted students, with admission through competitive national examination. Assumption Iloilo and Iloilo Scholastic Academy are respected private schools offering quality K-12 education with English-medium instruction.

The Philippine school year runs from August to June. Enrollment typically requires birth certificate, previous school records, and proof of residence. International families should contact schools directly for specific admission requirements and available spaces.

Sources: Stonyhurst Southville International School, Assumption Iloilo

Iloilo City offers diverse housing options at prices significantly lower than Manila or Cebu. From modern condominiums in the business district to houses in quiet residential subdivisions, newcomers can find accommodation to suit various budgets and lifestyles.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Mandurriao District is the city's most modern area, home to Iloilo Business Park (Megaworld), Smallville Complex, and SM City. It offers easy access to restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and modern condominium living. Jaro District is a historic area where prominent Ilonggo families reside, featuring heritage mansions, the iconic Jaro Cathedral, and good access to universities like CPU. La Paz District is elevated and residential, known for commercial establishments and the famous La Paz Batchoy. Molo District offers old-world charm with Chinese temples, heritage mansions, and the historic Molo Church.

Rental Prices and Procedures

Rental costs vary by location and property type. The standard lease requires one to two months' security deposit plus one month advance rent. Some landlords request post-dated checks for the lease term. Lease agreements should be notarized for legal protection.

Sources: Numbeo 2025, Dot Property Philippines

Iloilo City offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, historic sites, culinary adventures, and outdoor activities. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and home to one of the Philippines' grandest festivals, the city provides endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

Cultural Attractions and Heritage Sites

The Dinagyang Festival (fourth weekend of January) is Iloilo's most spectacular event—a religious and cultural celebration featuring elaborate tribal dance competitions, street parades, and food festivals honoring the Santo Niño. Miagao Church (40 km from the city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing unique baroque architecture. Within the city, Jaro Cathedral houses the first Marian image in Asia crowned by a pope, while Molo Church is known as the "feminist church" for its all-female saints.

Heritage enthusiasts can explore Calle Real, the historic commercial street featuring Spanish-era buildings, and visit ancestral houses like Camiña Balay nga Bato and Casa Mariquit. The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) showcases local and international artists in a beautifully restored heritage building.

Food, Nightlife, and Recreation

As a gastronomy city, Iloilo is famous for La Paz Batchoy (savory noodle soup), Pancit Molo (dumpling soup), Kadyos-Baboy-Langka (KBL), and fresh oysters and scallops. The Smallville Complex in Mandurriao is the main nightlife hub with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Iloilo River Esplanade offers scenic evening walks, while day trips to Guimaras Island (for the world's sweetest mangoes) and Islas de Gigantes (for island-hopping) are easily accessible.

Sources: Iloilo City Government, Dinagyang Festival

Daily life in Iloilo City combines urban convenience with a relaxed provincial pace. English is widely spoken and understood, making communication easy for newcomers. The local language, Hiligaynon (Ilonggo), is known for its soft, melodic quality, and learning basic phrases will enhance your experience.

Getting Around the City

Iloilo has a comprehensive 25-route jeepney network covering all major districts. Jeepneys remain the most affordable transport option at ₱13.50 per ride. Modern alternatives include Grab (ride-hailing service) launched in 2023, metered taxis, and tricycles for short distances. The city has introduced electric public transport vehicles as part of sustainability initiatives.

Iloilo International Airport is located in Santa Barbara, approximately 20 km from the city center. Airport transfers cost around ₱350–₱500 by taxi or can be done via shuttle van to SM City (₱100–₱150) plus jeepney. Direct flights connect Iloilo to Manila, Cebu, Davao, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Climate and Lifestyle

Iloilo has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 32°C year-round. The dry season (November to May) is ideal for outdoor activities, while the wet season (June to October) brings occasional heavy rainfall and typhoon risk. The city's Iloilo River Esplanade is popular for evening walks, jogging, and cycling, recognized as a model for sustainable urban development by UN-Habitat.

Shopping options include SM City Iloilo, Festive Walk Mall, Robinsons Place, and local markets. The city maintains a relatively low crime rate, though standard safety precautions are advised.

Sources: Iloilo City Government, Grab Philippines

Iloilo City offers one of the most affordable costs of living among major Philippine cities. Compared to Manila, you would need approximately 30% less income to maintain a similar lifestyle. This makes it particularly attractive for retirees, remote workers, and families seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo 2025