Makati or BGC: Which is Better for Digital Nomads in 2025?

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Makati or BGC: Which is Better for Digital Nomads in 2025?

Slug: makati-vs-bgc-digital-nomads

Published: July 11, 2025

Teaser Intro: Deciding between Makati and BGC? Here's an insider comparison for remote workers, expats, and digital nomads trying to choose the best base in Metro Manila.

Table of Contents

The Vibe

Makati feels like the heart of Metro Manila — older, denser, and full of character. It's a mix of business, art, and nightlife. BGC (Bonifacio Global City), on the other hand, is modern and polished — wide sidewalks, planned parks, and mostly newer developments.

Makati is walkable but gritty. You’ll see hole-in-the-wall restaurants next to skyscrapers. In BGC, everything is clean and Instagram-ready. Think LA vs. NYC — one feels newer, one feels lived-in.

“If you like creative chaos, Makati wins. If you want clean, organized comfort — BGC might be your match.”

Convenience & Daily Life

For errands and day-to-day tasks, Makati comes out slightly ahead — especially in older areas like Poblacion and Legazpi:

  • Laundromats and repair shops are easier to find
  • More affordable grocery options (Rustan’s, Cash & Carry, Landmark)
  • Easy access to banks, hospitals, and embassies

BGC is pricier and more spread out. Most services are inside malls like SM Aura, Market! Market!, or Uptown. That said, it's incredibly pedestrian-friendly — ideal for people who like walking or biking.

Best for First-Time Expats

If it’s your first time living in the Philippines, BGC is more beginner-friendly. The buildings are newer, most staff speak fluent English, and there’s a higher concentration of international residents.

But if you're a seasoned traveler or already comfortable with Manila, Makati offers more flavor and flexibility. You'll meet more locals, discover hidden gems, and avoid paying premium prices for everything.

The Downsides of Each

Makati:

  • Traffic in and out is brutal during rush hour
  • Some areas flood easily during typhoon season
  • Older buildings mean inconsistent internet or power backup

BGC:

  • More expensive — food, rent, and coworking spaces
  • Can feel too polished or "sterile" for some
  • Fewer 24/7 establishments compared to Makati

Where I’d Live With ₱80K/Month

If I had ₱80,000/month for rent, I’d choose a well-designed 1BR in Makati — probably in Legazpi or Salcedo Village. I’d be walking distance to the park, a weekend market, and good food. I’d work out of a coworking space like KMC or just from home with fiber internet.

The rest of the budget would go to food deliveries, occasional Grab rides, and weekend escapes. Makati just stretches your peso further — and still gives you access to everything you need.

Final Thoughts

  • Choose BGC if you want structure, convenience, and safety above all else.
  • Choose Makati if you value culture, cost-efficiency, and a more local-feeling lifestyle.

🏡 Thinking of Moving to Metro Manila?

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Have you stayed in either Makati or BGC?
Which one did you love — and why? Leave a comment or share this with someone who’s choosing their next home base.