Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Makati City
Summary: Solo digital nomad and relocating to Makati City? Explore these top neighborhoods that cater to singles and provide the perfect base for your next adventure.
Welcome to Makati City, the bustling financial hub of the Philippines that has become a haven for digital nomads from around the world. With its modern infrastructure, vibrant culture, and a plethora of coworking spaces, Makati offers the perfect blend of work and play for the global nomad. Whether you're a single digital nomad looking for a lively neighborhood to call home or a peaceful enclave to focus on your projects, Makati has something for everyone. Here are the top neighborhoods in Makati City that cater to the unique needs of single digital nomads.
Salcedo Village
Salcedo Village is a top choice for single digital nomads who seek a balance between a serene residential atmosphere and the convenience of city living. Known for its Saturday Market at Jaime C. Velasquez Park, Salcedo Village offers a taste of local food and culture right at your doorstep. The neighborhood is populated with a mix of expatriates and locals, providing a diverse community feel. It's also home to several art galleries, such as the Yuchengco Museum, which showcases both historical and contemporary art.
Location: In the heart of Makati's Central Business District
Where to Eat: The area boasts a variety of dining options, from the cozy Apartment 1B for comfort food to the refined dining experience at Wildflour Cafe + Bakery.
Where to Meet People: Salcedo Village is dotted with fitness centers, chic cafes, and bars. The nearby Ayala Triangle Gardens is a great spot for jogging and meeting fellow nomads. There are also numerous expat and digital nomad meetups that take place in the area.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment ranges from PHP 30,000 to PHP 50,000 per month.
Legazpi Village
Legazpi Village is another prime location for single digital nomads, offering a dynamic urban environment with a touch of greenery. The Washington SyCip Park provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle, perfect for afternoon breaks or weekend picnics. The neighborhood is also known for its art scene, with the Ayala Museum showcasing Philippine history and art just a stone's throw away.
Location: Southeast part of the Makati Central Business District
Where to Eat: Foodies will enjoy the Legazpi Sunday Market for local and international cuisines, while Bondi&Bourke offers a more upscale dining experience.
Where to Meet People: Legazpi Village is filled with coworking spaces, such as Clock In, where you can connect with other professionals. The area's numerous cafes and bars also provide ample opportunities to socialize and network.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is around PHP 35,000 to PHP 60,000 per month.
Poblacion
Poblacion stands out as the cultural and entertainment district of Makati, making it an exciting place for single digital nomads who enjoy a vibrant nightlife and a bohemian vibe. The area is a melting pot of cultures, with a significant number of foreigners and digital nomads and expats mingling with the local crowd. Poblacion is also home to unique attractions like the Museo ng Makati, which tells the story of the city's past.
Location: Northwest part of Makati, just a few minutes away from the CBD
Where to Eat: The neighborhood is famous for its eclectic food scene, with places like El Chupacabra for Mexican street food and Commune for coffee aficionados.
Where to Meet People: Poblacion's lively streets are lined with bars, music venues, and art spaces, offering countless opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. Z Hostel's rooftop bar is a popular hangout spot among the nomad community.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment ranges from PHP 20,000 to PHP 40,000 per month.
Rockwell Center
For those seeking an upscale and secure environment, Rockwell Center is the epitome of luxury living in Makati. This self-contained, high-end neighborhood is favored by digital nomads and expats and affluent locals for its sophisticated ambiance. The Power Plant Mall provides a one-stop-shop for all your needs, from fashion to gourmet groceries. Rockwell also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, adding to its appeal.
Location: Northeast part of Makati, close to the Pasig River
Where to Eat: Rockwell has a plethora of fine dining options, including the likes of Rambla for Spanish cuisine and Single Origin for coffee and cocktails.
Where to Meet People: The area is less about street life and more about exclusive events and gatherings. Fitness clubs like Kerry Sports Manila offer a place to stay active and socialize.
Rentals: Average Rental Price of Studio or 1 bedroom apartment is on the higher end, starting from PHP 50,000 to PHP 80,000 per month.
Each of these neighborhoods in Makati City offers a unique living experience for single digital nomads, catering to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, a bustling nightlife, or a luxurious retreat, Makati has a spot for you to thrive as a global nomad.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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