Cost of Living in Davao City
A complete monthly cost breakdown for expats living in Davao City, Philippines. All prices in USD.
Last updated: 2026-03-15
Monthly budget estimates
Budget
$600/mo
Basic apartment, local food, minimal extras.
Moderate
$1,100/mo
Comfortable apartment, mix of dining, some travel.
Comfortable
$1,950/mo
Premium apartment, Western lifestyle, private healthcare.
Rent
avg $300/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment (city center) | $180 | $290 | $480 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $250 | $380 | $620 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | $150 | $240 | $380 | per month |
Food & Groceries
avg $170/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $1.5 | $2.5 | $4 | per meal |
| Western restaurant meal | $7 | $12 | $18 | per meal |
| Groceries (weekly) | $18 | $30 | $48 | per week |
Transport
avg $38/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeepney/bus monthly | $12 | $35 | $65 | per month |
| Grab/taxi (per ride) | $1.5 | $3 | $6 | per ride |
Utilities
avg $80/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric + water | $50 | $80 | $125 | per month |
| Mobile phone plan | $7 | $11 | $18 | per month |
Healthcare
avg $38/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $7 | $18 | $38 | per visit |
| Health insurance (basic) | $18 | $35 | $70 | per month |
Internet
avg $25/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 50Mbps | $15 | $25 | $40 | per month |
Entertainment
avg $50/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | $15 | $28 | $55 | per month |
| Movie ticket | $2.5 | $4 | $7 | per ticket |
Explore Davao City beyond the numbers
Read our full city guide — neighbourhoods, safety, internet speeds, expat community, and more.