Cost of living and prices in General Santos, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇵🇭
Updated Jul 2023

General Santos is a city in the Philippines that boasts a variety of dining options for travelers. From local street food to high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone. Seafood is a specialty in the city, with fresh catches of tuna, squid, and prawns served in many different ways. Visitors can also try traditional Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare. For those looking for international cuisine, there are also restaurants that serve Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and American dishes. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, General Santos has it all.

If you're in General Santos, make sure to try out the city's famous tuna. Known as the "Tuna Capital of the Philippines", General Santos is home to one of the largest tuna ports in the country. There are many restaurants that specialize in tuna dishes, such as grilled tuna belly, tuna sashimi, and tuna kinilaw. For a more adventurous dining experience, visitors can also try a "boodle fight", which is a Filipino traditional way of eating with no utensils. The food is spread on banana leaves and everyone eats together using their hands. Overall, General Santos offers a unique culinary experience that is sure to satisfy any traveler's hunger.

General Santos City, also known as the "Tuna Capital of the Philippines," is thriving with a bustling market offering an array of goods and services. Market prices vary depending on the commodity, supply and demand, and competition among vendors. The locals, also known as "Generals," are known for their excellent negotiating skills, and bargaining is a common practice in the market. If you're a savvy shopper, you can score some amazing deals and get the most value for your money in this vibrant marketplace.

The market in General Santos City is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the traditional way of life in the Philippines. The stalls are filled with fresh produce, seafood, textiles, and authentic handmade crafts. The lively atmosphere and colorful displays will captivate your senses and leave you wanting to explore more. Whether you're looking for souvenirs to bring back home or trying out new food, the markets in General Santos City offer an authentic and unforgettable experience at a reasonable price.

General Santos City is one of the most important cities in the Philippines and offers a variety of transportation options for tourists. One of the most popular and convenient ways to get around is by the local mode of transportation known as the tricycle. These three-wheeled vehicles offer a quick and easy way to hop around with locals. Furthermore, if you are looking for a bit more freedom, renting a motorbike or scooter can be a great experience. Not only can you explore further and faster, but you will also have more control over your travel schedule.

Another transportation option that is worth considering is the jeepney. Jeepneys are an old, unique, and colorful vehicle that is commonly used as public transport around the city. They offer affordable rates, although they can be slower than other options. For those looking to travel in comfort, taxi services are readily available. Uber and Grab are also common transportation options in General Santos City. Overall, there are a variety of transportation options to choose from, each with their own benefits and drawbacks, giving you the flexibility to travel in a way that's comfortable and convenient for you.

If you're planning a trip to General Santos, it's important to be aware of the utilities costs that you might encounter during your stay. Overall, the cost of utilities in General Santos can vary depending on various factors such as the type of accommodation you choose, the duration of your stay, and your personal habits. Generally, the prices for electricity, water, and gas are affordable and are not likely to burn a hole in your pocket. However, if you're looking to save on costs, it's recommended that you use these resources thoughtfully and avoid overusing them.

It's important to note that some accommodations in General Santos might include utilities in their rental prices, while others may require you to pay these costs separately. Therefore, if you're on a tight budget, it's recommended that you do some research beforehand and find an affordable accommodation option that includes utilities. Additionally, it's worth considering the time of year you plan to travel, as certain seasons may result in higher utilities costs due to increased usage. Overall, utilities costs in General Santos are reasonable, and with proper planning, you can avoid any unexpected expenses.

For those seeking an exciting and active experience in General Santos, Philippines, there is an abundance of sports and leisure activities to enjoy. The city is well-known for its boxing culture and offers many gym facilities where visitors can train with professional boxers. In addition, water sports such as scuba diving, surfing, and paddleboarding are highly popular due to the city's stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

If you're looking for a more relaxing way to spend your time in General Santos, there are many options for leisure activities as well. Visitors can unwind by taking a stroll through one of the city's beautiful parks or gardens, or indulging in a spa treatment at one of the many luxury resorts. Golf enthusiasts will delight in the city's world-class golf courses, which offer challenging and scenic courses for players of all skill levels. No matter what your interests or preferences, General Santos has something to offer for everyone in terms of sports and leisure activities.

General Santos is known as one of the top economic hubs in the Philippines, with a low cost of living and average salaries that are commensurate with the living standards. The city's economy lies in agriculture, industrialization, and trade, and is noted for exports in tuna, pineapple, and coconut production. Despite the presence of big industries and multinational companies, the salaries and financing in General Santos remain affordable compared to other major cities in the Philippines.

Moreover, local financial institutions offer a wide range of financing options for travelers and expats. Banks and other financial institutions in General Santos offer competitive interest rates and user-friendly banking facilities to accommodate visitors' financial needs, from cash withdrawals and money transfers to loans. Accessible ATMs can be found all around the city, and most establishments accept credit cards and online payment platforms. For those who may need specialized financial services, several foreign exchange centers, pawnshops, and remittance centers exist, making it easy for travelers and expats to exchange currencies or send and receive money securely and efficiently.

Childcare is a crucial aspect of raising a child, and most parents in General Santos, Philippines are concerned about the cost of childcare. Schools in General Santos offer exceptional education with well-trained teachers and staff. Along with a high-quality education, these schools also offer childcare services for children of all ages. However, the cost of schooling and childcare services largely depends on the location and standard of the institution.

In General Santos, kindergartens and pre-schools work in sync with parents to provide the best care and education for their children. These institutions are designed to provide a child with a safe, supportive and nurturing environment to enable them to learn and grow. Most kindergartens provide children with extracurricular activities and opportunities to expand their skills beyond the classroom. For parents, they can choose from a range of kindergartens and pre-schools based on their preferences and the quality of the institution.

When it comes to clothing and shoes, General Santos has a variety of options to choose from. From high-end boutiques to street vendors, you'll definitely find what you're looking for. The city has several well-known shopping centers where you can buy quality clothing and shoes such as KCC Mall, SM City General Santos, Gaisano Mall, and Robinsons Place. You can expect to find a range of prices depending on the brand and type of clothing or shoes you’re after. Whether you're on a budget or looking for luxury items, you'll be able to nab some great deals or splurge on some high-end fashion in General Santos.

Aside from the major shopping centers, General Santos also has a number of local markets and stalls where you can find affordable and unique clothing and shoes. One such market is the Tiongson Arcade which is known for its range of shoes, bags, and clothes that are perfect for budget shoppers. If you're into second-hand clothing, you can visit the Ukay-Ukay stores scattered around the city. Don't be afraid to haggle for prices as it is expected when shopping in these markets. With the many different shopping options available in General Santos, both locals and tourists alike are sure to find the perfect piece of clothing or shoes to fit their style and budget.

Short-term renting and stay options in General Santos, Philippines are widely available and affordable. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and homestays. There are options that cater to all budgets and preferences, and you can find places that offer clean, comfortable rooms and excellent customer service at a reasonable price. Additionally, many short-term rentals offer amenities like laundry, Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchens. So whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you'll have plenty of options to choose from in General Santos.

If you're looking for something budget-friendly, a bed-and-breakfast or guesthouse could be a great choice. Many of these options offer cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and personalized service at a low cost. If you're traveling with a larger group or want more space, an apartment or homestay might be more your style. These accommodations typically have larger living spaces and can offer a more local experience. Finally, many hotels in General Santos offer excellent amenities and features like swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. Ultimately, the choice of where to stay depends on your preferences and budget, but there is certainly no shortage of options in this vibrant city.

General Santos, also known as GenSan, is rapidly growing and has seen a significant increase in real estate options in recent years. With new developments popping up, there are plenty of options depending on your needs - from apartments and townhouses to single-family homes.

The prices of properties in GenSan vary depending on the location and type of property. While some neighborhoods may be more expensive, there are also more affordable areas available. It's important to do your research and consider your priorities before committing to a property. With the assistance of a trusted real estate agent, you can browse options that fit your budget and meet your requirements.