Where to Live in Cebu: Best Areas for Founders

Where to Live in Cebu: Best Areas for Founders

Your guide to finding the perfect neighborhood for your startup life

Relocating to Cebu to build your startup is exciting — but choosing where to live can make or break your experience. The right neighborhood doesn’t just offer convenience; it shapes your daily rhythm, productivity, and even networking opportunities. Cebu offers a variety of living environments, from dynamic tech districts to quiet hillside communities. Here’s an in-depth guide to help founders like you decide where to call home.

1. IT Park (Lahug)

The ultimate live-work-play hub for startup founders

If you want to be in the middle of the action, IT Park is the epicenter of Cebu’s tech scene. It’s where BPO giants, startups, coworking spaces, and 24-hour cafés converge in a compact, walkable environment.

Why it’s great:

• Coworking access: You’re walking distance from top spaces like The Company, KMC, and A SPACE. You can literally roll out of bed and be at your desk in minutes.

• Networking: Tech meetups, digital nomad events, and startup mixers often happen here.

• Safety and security: The entire area is patrolled and well-lit, even at night.

• Lifestyle: Tons of restaurants, gyms, and coffee shops operate around the clock.

Downsides:

• Rent is on the high side for Cebu.

• Traffic around rush hours can be intense (especially in and out of the area).

• Limited greenery or large spaces — most properties are condos.

Who it’s best for:

• First-time founders

• Solo entrepreneurs

• Those who thrive in fast-paced, urban environments

2. Cebu Business Park (Ayala Center area)

Polished, central, and professional – for founders working with corporates or investors

Cebu Business Park is home to Ayala Center and many corporate headquarters. It offers a more “executive” vibe — think polished buildings, clean streets, and a balance between business and leisure.

What you get:

• Upscale condos: Options like 1016 Residences and Park Point offer hotel-like amenities.

• Proximity to corporate clients: If your startup deals with banks, developers, or major firms, you’re in the right spot.

• Fine dining and leisure: Ayala Mall offers everything from sushi to rooftop bars to world-class gyms.

Pros:

• Prestigious address

• Clean and calm environment, less noise than IT Park

• Great for family life or founders with partners

Cons:

• Rent is equal to or higher than IT Park

• Less of a “startup buzz” — more corporate than creative

Ideal for:

• Founders with investor meetings or B2B operations

• Remote execs working in finance, real estate, or consulting

• Entrepreneurs with families

3. Banilad / Maria Luisa Estate Park

Suburban comfort and high-end homes, for founders who value space and peace

If you prefer a more secluded lifestyle and have the budget to match, Maria Luisa Estate Park in Banilad offers luxury, privacy, and nature — just 15–20 minutes from downtown (depending on traffic).

Highlights:

• Large homes with gardens, balconies, even private pools

• Gated community with 24/7 security and clean surroundings

• Ideal for families or anyone who wants to disconnect after work

Things to consider:

• A car is almost a necessity here

• Grab/taxi coverage is decent but not instant

• Far fewer options for walkable restaurants or cafés

Great for:

• Senior entrepreneurs

• Families with kids

• Remote-first companies

4. Mabolo / Kasambagan

Affordable but central — a solid choice for bootstrapping founders

Nestled between IT Park and Cebu Business Park, Mabolo and Kasambagan offer the convenience of both without the price tag. It’s popular among young professionals, freelancers, and founders watching their burn rate.

What you’ll find:

• Modern mid-range condos like Mabolo Garden Flats or Calyx Centre

• Walking/biking distance to two major business hubs

• Quiet residential streets but with access to nightlife and gyms

Benefits:

• Excellent value for money

• Good internet availability and utilities

• Options for both furnished and unfurnished rentals

Downsides:

• Not many upscale shops or restaurants nearby

• Some older buildings lack proper maintenance

Ideal for:

• First-time founders or solo operators

• Digital nomads staying 3–12 months

• Anyone balancing cost with connectivity

5. Mandaue City (Oakridge Business Park area)

Up-and-coming and underrated — a strategic spot for lean startups

Mandaue, especially around Oakridge Business Park, is becoming a solid base for entrepreneurs who want lower costs and a quieter atmosphere. You’ll also find industrial zones and logistics centers nearby — useful for ecommerce or distribution startups.

Features:

• Affordable rentals, often larger than those in central Cebu

• Access to coworking spaces like Workplace Cafe in Oakridge

• Lower cost of living — groceries, utilities, and transport are all cheaper

Watch out for:

• Rush hour traffic to and from Cebu City

• Limited international cuisine or upscale nightlife

Perfect for:

• Founders building physical products or ecommerce platforms

• Lean teams or dev shops

• Entrepreneurs seeking low overhead while scaling

Neighborhood Summary Table

Final Tips for Founders

• Start lean: If you’re just arriving, consider short-term rentals in Mabolo or IT Park before committing to a long-term lease.

• Proximity matters: Being close to where you work will dramatically improve your daily rhythm — especially in a city where traffic is unpredictable.

• Factor in internet and power: Always check building reviews for fiber internet and backup generators (brownouts do happen).

• Explore first: Spend your first week doing neighborhood tours — the vibe on the ground is the best indicator of fit.

FAQ: Living in Cebu as a Startup Founder

Frequently Asked Questions for Entrepreneurs Choosing Where to Live in Cebu

Q1. What’s the best area to live in Cebu as a startup founder?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your priorities.

• If you’re looking for proximity to coworking spaces, networking events, and startup-friendly amenities, then IT Park is a top choice.

• If you want a more professional and polished environment with access to major corporations, Cebu Business Park may be better.

• Mabolo and Kasambagan offer central access with lower rent, ideal for lean startups.

• Banilad and Maria Luisa are best for those seeking peace, privacy, and larger homes, especially for founders with families.

• Mandaue is great for ecommerce founders, industrial startups, or those looking to save on housing.

Q2. How much does it cost to rent an apartment in each of these areas?

Here’s a general range (monthly rent for a 1-bedroom unit or small house):

Note: Prices vary by amenities, furnishings, lease terms, and negotiation.

Q3. Which areas are best for networking and meeting other entrepreneurs?

IT Park is the most active startup zone. You’ll find coworking hubs, tech events, and freelancer meetups almost weekly.
Ayala Business Park is more formal but has a growing professional community, especially for fintech or B2B startups.

Coworking spaces to watch:

• The Company (IT Park & Mandaue)

• KMC (Cebu Business Park)

• A SPACE Cebu

• Workplace Café (Oakridge, Mandaue)

Q4. Is it easy to work from home in Cebu? How’s the internet quality?

Yes, working from home is feasible in most modern condos and homes in Cebu—but internet stability varies by area and building.

• Fiber connections are available in IT Park, Ayala, and new developments in Mabolo.

• Banilad and Maria Luisa often have fiber too, but it may require installation.

• Mandaue has mixed quality—some areas have fiber, others only DSL.

• Check for backup power (generator) in your building, as brownouts (blackouts) can happen in Cebu, especially during typhoons.

Tip: Always ask your landlord or agent about:

• Fiber internet availability (PLDT, Globe, Converge)

• Building backup power

• Mobile data coverage (for hotspot fallback)

Q5. Which neighborhoods are walkable?

• IT Park: Extremely walkable, compact design with shops, offices, and cafés all nearby.

• Ayala Business Park: Also walkable, but more spread out—some areas may require a short drive.

• Mabolo/Kasambagan: Semi-walkable, depending on your exact location.

• Banilad/Maria Luisa: Not walkable; car or Grab is necessary.

• Mandaue (Oakridge area): Low walkability, but some mixed-use areas are developing.

Q6. Is Cebu safe to live in? What about these specific neighborhoods?

Cebu is generally safe, especially in major residential and business zones.
Here’s a quick safety profile by area:

• IT Park: Very safe, well-lit, and patrolled 24/7

• Cebu Business Park: Safe, clean, and regulated

• Banilad/Maria Luisa: High-end gated areas, very secure

• Mabolo/Kasambagan: Safe in most parts, but check street lighting and condo security

• Mandaue: Depends on the barangay (neighborhood); Oakridge is considered safe, but areas farther out can be mixed

Tip: Always check Google Reviews or expat forums when considering a new building.

Q7. Can I find fully furnished places? What amenities are typical?

Yes, many rental units in Cebu, especially condos, are fully furnished and designed for expats or remote workers.

Common amenities include:

• Air conditioning

• Washing machine

• Wi-Fi or LAN-ready connections

• Kitchen appliances (microwave, induction stove, refrigerator)

• Gym and pool access (in most condo buildings)

• 24/7 security

• Backup generator (in newer buildings)

You can also negotiate with the landlord to add furniture or appliances.

Q8. How do I find a rental unit in Cebu? Are there trusted platforms?

Yes. Here’s where most founders and expats search:

• Facebook Marketplace (most active for rentals)

• Rentpad.ph

• DotProperty / Lamudi

• Cebu Craigslist (used less often)

• Airbnb (for trial stays before committing)

It’s common to message landlords or agents directly via Facebook. Be cautious of scams—never send payment before viewing the unit or signing a lease.

Q9. Can I rent a place without a long-term lease?

Yes. Many condos offer:

• Monthly rentals (higher cost, more flexible)

• 3–6 month leases (popular with digital nomads)

• 12-month standard leases (better pricing)

If you’re new to Cebu, consider starting with an Airbnb or monthly rental while scouting for your ideal long-term place.

Q10. Are there coworking spaces in all areas? Or do I have to live near one?

Coworking is most concentrated in:

• IT Park

• Ayala Business Park

• Oakridge in Mandaue

If you live in Banilad, Mabolo, or Kasambagan, you’re a short drive away from several spaces. That said, with strong internet at home, many founders mix WFH with 2–3 coworking visits per week.

Q11. What’s the traffic like between these neighborhoods?

Traffic in Cebu can be unpredictable. Some sample commute times (non-rush vs rush hour):

To save time, living where you work is highly recommended.

Q12. I’m moving with my family. Which area is best?

For families, top picks include:

• Maria Luisa Estate Park (private homes, gated, green)

• Cebu Business Park (modern condos, close to international schools)

• Banilad (houses with space, close to malls and hospitals)

Also consider:

• Proximity to schools (CIS, Sacred Heart, Paref Southcrest)

• Medical access (Chong Hua, Cebu Doctors, UC Med)

Q13. Can I get local support for settling in?

Absolutely. Many realtors, relocation agents, and expat groups are active in Cebu. Start here:

• Cebu Digital Nomads (Facebook)

• Cebu Expat Club

• Cebu Startups (events + Slack groups)

• Real estate brokers like Leuterio Realty, Filipino Homes, or Your Cebu Agent

Final Thoughts

Living in Cebu as a founder can be an incredible experience—cost-effective, connected, and full of opportunity. Choosing the right neighborhood comes down to your work style, stage of your business, and personal lifestyle.

Start lean, explore your options, and choose a base that helps you thrive both professionally and personally.