The Philippines leads Asia in the number of prospective digital nomads, with one in 14 respondents expressing a desire to work remotely while traveling by 2025, according to a report by the digital travel platform Agoda.

In a survey involving 1,081 respondents from 11 markets, including Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, Agoda found that Filipinos show the highest inclination to adopt the digital nomad lifestyle.

Several Asian countries, such as Thailand, Indonesia, and South Korea, have implemented special visa policies to attract digital nomads. These policies enable individuals to work remotely while enjoying breathtaking natural landscapes and the dynamic richness of local cultures.

Despite the growing trend, 23% of Filipino respondents still prefer traditional work-travel patterns, according to Agoda's data.

Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the digital nomad phenomenon is gradually emerging. One in 25 respondents expressed hopes to work remotely while traveling this year.

Considerations for Digital Nomads

The digital nomad lifestyle offers the freedom to move between locations while remaining productive, creating a balance between work and personal life. However, before embracing this lifestyle, it is essential to consider factors such as the cost of living, accommodation, and visa requirements to ensure an optimal experience.

1. Cost of Living

Choosing an affordable destination is key to a successful digital nomad experience. The cost of living includes expenses for rent, food, transportation, and coworking spaces, which should align with one’s income. In the Philippines, the average cost of living for one person in 2024 ranges from PHP 25,000 - PHP 35,000 (US$429.50 - US$601.30) per month, covering essentials such as rent, food, transportation, and utilities.

Grocery expenses in the Philippines are relatively affordable compared to other Southeast Asian countries. On average, an individual spends around PHP 8,000 - PHP 12,000 (US$137.44 - US$206.16) per month on basic groceries. Dining at mid-range restaurants costs approximately PHP 300 - PHP 500 (US$5.15 - US$8.59) per meal, with cheaper options available at local markets and fast-food outlets.

2. Accommodation

Factors such as housing, coworking space fees, and local government regulations are also important considerations. For both short- and long-term stays, hotels and rentals offer flexibility with costs varying by location and season.

For example, in the central areas of Metro Manila, studio apartment rental rates range between PHP 10,000 and PHP 20,000 (US$171.80 and US$343.60) per month, while one-bedroom apartments can cost PHP 25,000 to PHP 35,000 (US$429.50 - US$601.30). Outside city centers, prices are more affordable, averaging PHP 15,000 to PHP 20,000 (US$257.70 - US$343.60) per month. Cities like Cebu and Davao also provide housing options at lower costs.

3. Internet Connectivity

Reliable internet connectivity is a crucial need for digital nomads. Before choosing a destination, it’s important to check the average internet speed, availability of mobile data, and coworking spaces.

In the Philippines, internet packages with speeds of approximately 100 Mbps are available at costs ranging from PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,500 (US$25.77 - US$42.95) per month. Utilities such as electricity, water, and waste management for an 85-square-meter apartment typically range from PHP 5,000 to PHP 8,000 (US$85.90 - US$137.44) per month.

4. Safety and Accessibility

Safety and accessibility are top priorities for travelers. Researching safety levels, healthcare services, and local transportation options is essential. In the Philippines, public transportation options such as jeepneys, buses, and trains are cost-effective, with monthly expenses averaging between PHP 1,500 and PHP 2,500 (US$25.77 and US$42.95). However, using ride-hailing services like Grab can significantly increase expenses, especially in areas with heavy traffic.

The Philippines offers free public healthcare services for its citizens. However, expatriates and those seeking more comprehensive care often opt for private hospitals, where consultation fees can range from PHP 500 to PHP 2,000 (US$8.59 - US$34.36). Health insurance is highly recommended to cover potential higher medical expenses.