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Cebu has rapidly emerged as one of the Philippines’ top destinations for business, remote work, retirement, medical tourism, and digital nomadism. Whether you’re relocating for a few months or settling in for the long haul, serviced apartments offer a convenient and hassle-free accommodation solution.
Unlike hotels or regular apartments, serviced apartments combine the privacy of a home with the amenities of a hotel, making them ideal for long-term residents who value comfort, flexibility, and convenience.
This in-depth guide explores what to expect from long-term serviced apartments in Cebu—costs, best locations, top-rated properties, and how to choose the right one based on your needs.
A serviced apartment is a fully furnished unit that provides amenities similar to a hotel. It typically includes:
A bedroom (studio, 1BR, 2BR options)
A kitchenette or full kitchen
Housekeeping services (weekly or biweekly)
Fast Wi-Fi
24/7 security or reception
Flexible lease terms (daily, monthly, yearly)
Business travelers or expats on assignment
Medical tourists undergoing extended treatment
Remote workers or digital nomads
Retirees in transition
Students or interns staying 3–12 months
Feature | Serviced Apartment | Condo | Hotel |
---|---|---|---|
Fully Furnished | ✅ Yes | ✅/❌ Varies | ✅ Yes |
Kitchen Facilities | ✅ Always | ✅ Often | ❌ Limited |
Housekeeping | ✅ Weekly (included) | ❌ Usually not | ✅ Daily |
Lease Flexibility | ✅ Monthly or weekly | ❌ Typically 6–12 months | ✅ Daily/Weekly |
Cost Effectiveness | ✅ for 1–6 months stays | ✅ for 12+ months | ❌ Expensive long-term |
Privacy & Space | ✅ Separate rooms | ✅ Full unit | ❌ Often cramped |
Summary: Serviced apartments strike a perfect balance—cost-efficient for long-term stays, fully equipped, and far more private than hotels.
Long-term serviced apartments (monthly rentals of 30+ days) in Cebu vary in price depending on location, room size, and services offered.
Type | Monthly Rate (PHP) | Example Properties |
---|---|---|
Studio (20–30 sqm) | 25,000 – 40,000 | Citadines, Quest, Mezzo |
1BR (40–60 sqm) | 35,000 – 60,000 | Sta. Barbara, Seda Residences |
2BR (70+ sqm) | 55,000 – 90,000+ | Rockwell Aruga, Koi Residences |
Most properties include:
Wi-Fi
Water
Weekly housekeeping
Furnishings
24/7 security
Electricity is sometimes billed separately. Security deposits (1 month) are standard but refundable.
Central business district
Near Ayala Center Cebu
Popular with expats and corporate tenants
Tech and BPO hub
24/7 lifestyle, cafes, co-working spaces
Ideal for digital nomads and young professionals
Accessible to both Cebu City and airport
More budget-friendly
Ideal for long-term stayers who want suburban quiet
Beachside luxury (more expensive)
Close to resorts and airport
Perfect for retirees and medical tourists
Location: Base Line Center, Osmeña Blvd.
Operator: The Ascott Limited
Key Features:
Full kitchenette
Rooftop gym and pool
In-house restaurant
Weekly cleaning included
24/7 reception
Location: Ayala Center, CBP
Operator: Ayala Hotels
Key Features:
1BR and 2BR options
Club lounge access
Housekeeping twice per week
Hotel-grade amenities
Location: Near Ayala, Cebu Business District
Key Features:
Studio and 1BR layouts
Business-class guests
Conference room access
Hotel-Residences combo
Location: Maria Luisa, Banilad
Key Features:
Larger units with full kitchen
Residential feel
Perfect for families
Quiet, safe area
Location: Mabolo, near IT Park
Key Features:
Compact, affordable units
Monthly rates available
Restaurant and laundry onsite
Factor | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Location | Proximity to office, hospital, or school |
Lease Terms | Minimum stay, cancellation policy |
Housekeeping | Included or extra cost? Weekly or biweekly? |
Kitchen Setup | Full kitchen vs. microwave-only |
Wi-Fi Quality | Critical for remote work |
Total Cost | All-inclusive? Utilities separate? |
Storage Space | Especially important for long stays |
Building Facilities | Elevator, gym, lobby, co-working area |
You don’t need to own property to stay long-term—serviced apartments are legal and practical.
Use registered real estate brokers or go direct to property managers.
Check lease clauses: early termination fees, renewal, and deposit terms.
Ask for discounts for stays over 3–6 months—some give up to 30% off.
Category | Monthly Cost (PHP) |
---|---|
Rent | 40,000 – 60,000 |
Electricity | 2,000 – 4,000 |
Food & Groceries | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Transportation | 2,000 – 5,000 |
Medical/Insurance | 2,000 – 5,000 |
Internet (if separate) | 1,500 – 2,500 |
Total | 57,500 – 91,500 |
Move-in ready
Professional management
High security
No need to buy furniture
Flexible terms
Higher rent vs. bare units
Limited personalization
May have noise (if near business district)
Pets may not be allowed in all buildings
Profile | Recommendation |
---|---|
Digital Nomad (3–6 months) | ✅ Studio near IT Park |
Corporate Expat (1+ year) | ✅ 1BR in CBP or Banilad |
Medical Tourist (2–3 months) | ✅ Mactan or near hospitals |
Family in transition | ✅ 2BR in suburban serviced suite |
Retiree exploring Cebu | ✅ Coastal 1BR or mid-rise apartment |
If you’re planning a long-term stay in Cebu, serviced apartments offer an unbeatable combination of comfort, convenience, and flexibility. They remove the stress of furnishing, cleaning, and managing bills—allowing you to focus on what matters: enjoying life, working efficiently, or recovering peacefully.
From city-center studios to suburban suites and beachfront escapes, there’s a serviced apartment in Cebu to match your budget and lifestyle. Choose wisely—and enjoy stress-free living in one of Southeast Asia’s rising lifestyle capitals.
A serviced apartment is a fully furnished residential unit that includes amenities such as a kitchenette, regular housekeeping, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security. It’s a hybrid between a hotel and a condo, ideal for long-term stays.
Serviced apartments are commonly rented by expats, business travelers, remote workers, digital nomads, retirees, students, and medical tourists. They’re especially popular with people staying 1–12 months.
Monthly rents for serviced apartments range from PHP 25,000 for studios to PHP 90,000+ for larger two-bedroom units. Rates vary based on location, building quality, and included services.
It depends. Some serviced apartments include Wi-Fi and water in the rent, but electricity is often billed separately. Always clarify with the property manager before signing a lease.
Yes, foreigners can freely rent serviced apartments in the Philippines. There’s no restriction on leasehold properties for foreign nationals.
Common services include regular cleaning (weekly or twice weekly), concierge support, 24/7 security, garbage disposal, and maintenance. Some also include linen change and laundry service.
Yes. Most serviced apartments require one-month security deposit, refundable upon checkout after deducting damages, if any. Some may also ask for one month advance rental payment.
Yes. Most units come with a kitchenette or full kitchen equipped with a stove, microwave, fridge, and cookware—ideal for tenants who prefer to cook at home.
Pet policies vary. Some properties allow small pets with prior approval and possibly an extra fee or deposit. Others may have a strict no-pet policy. Always check before booking.
Some serviced apartments offer monthly contracts, while others require a minimum 3-month stay for discounted long-term rates. Daily and weekly rates are also common in hybrid hotel-apartment setups.
Yes. Most serviced apartments in Cebu include once or twice weekly cleaning, which may also include towel and linen replacement depending on the building.
Yes. Many serviced apartments are listed on booking platforms, or you can inquire directly through their website or a local real estate broker. It’s recommended to book early during peak seasons.
Most units include basic Wi-Fi in the rent. Some properties offer faster paid upgrades. For remote workers, it’s advisable to test speed or ask for a bandwidth guarantee.
Serviced apartments offer hotel-like management and shorter, more flexible lease terms. Condos may require long-term contracts and tenants often handle their own cleaning and maintenance.
Yes. There are serviced apartments near Cebu Doctors’ Hospital, Chong Hua, and in university areas like Lahug and Banilad—ideal for medical tourists or international students.
Yes. High-end serviced units like Aruga Mactan or Sheraton Residences offer beachfront access. These cater to premium renters and vacationers looking for long-term stays.
Absolutely. Most serviced apartments allow guests and are suitable for working remotely. Some even have co-working lounges or business centers on site.
Yes, but it may come with an additional monthly fee. Availability is limited, especially in city-center locations, so reserve a slot early if needed.
Typically required: a valid ID or passport, reservation form, signed lease agreement, and payment of deposit and advance rent. Some properties may ask for proof of income or reference.
Yes. For leases over 3–6 months, many landlords or property managers are willing to offer discounted monthly rates. Always ask if long-term discounts apply.