Where is the Best Place to Live in Manila? A Guide to Choosing the Right Location

As the country's economic powerhouse, Metro Manila is the top residential hub in the country. It is home to most of the central business districts in the country – Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City, and Ortigas Center, and top universities – UP Diliman, Ateneo de Manila University, and De La Salle University. Thus, it is ideal for families, students, professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking a new traditional home or a prime condo location in the Philippines.

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Discover the best places to live in Metro Manila. Also, learn about the residential options available, from traditional homes to upscale condominiums in Manila, and find the best location that suits your needs.

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Top Residential Areas in Metro Manila

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1. Quezon City

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The largest city in Metro Manila, Quezon City, is also one of the best places to live in Manila. It best suits families and students because it has many residential options, from affordable housing to upscale condominiums. Thus, individuals from different income brackets will find suitable accommodation here.

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Home to several universities and colleges, including Ateneo and the University of the Philippines Diliman. This vibrant city is perfect for students. They can find their new home away from home in student-friendly condos along Katipunan. It is also a great residence for families looking for good school options for their children’s education.  

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Quezon City has several ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the Metro Rail Transit Line 7, to Bulacan and the 33-kilometer Metro Manila Subway. Hence, securing a place in the city before the completion of these projects is a good investment, too.

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Last, Quezon City has a significantly lower price per sqm than BGC and Makati. Hence, it is the best place for new families to live in Metro Manila, where they can secure their first homes without breaking the bank.

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2. Manila City (University Belt & Cultural Center)

The university belt in Manila City is also one of the best places to live in Metro Manila. Like Quezon City, this area has several top universities, colleges, major hospitals, and government institutions. Hence, this capital city is perfect for families, professionals, and students.

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Living close to the university belt eliminates long commutes, giving students more time to study and take part in extracurricular activities. It also gives them more time for rest, letting them enjoy a healthy school and life balance.  

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Manila City also has a rich historical and cultural background. The oldest university in the country, the University of Sto. Tomas is within this city. The famed walled city of Intramuros is also within a short distance of the U-belt, so residents have easy access to these historical treasures.  

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Also near Manila City is the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex, one of the premier venues for performing arts in the country. Hence, residents can also enjoy the vibrant arts scene of the city.  

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Compared to Makati CBD and BGC, Manila City has more affordable residential options, such as dormitories and boarding houses, making the city accessible to students and low-to-middle-income residents. The residential areas in Manila, particularly near the U-belt, also have high foot traffic, which supports a thriving local economy. Hence, the cost of living is much lower, too.

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But if you’re looking for comfort and security, living in a condo near the university belt in Manila is also great, especially for university students.

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3. Makati Central Business District (CBD)

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Makati Central Business District (CBD) is the country’s main economic center and largest business district, home to many multinational and national corporations. Hence, the bustling city of Makati is a premier location for professionals and expats seeking a blend of upscale living and a vibrant urban lifestyle.  

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Makati CBD is also accessible via the country's different transportation systems. It is a highly walkable district with key destinations clustered together for easy access for commuters, residents, and visitors.  

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Residential options in Makati CBD are limited to mid-range and upscale condominiums. However, owning a premium condominium in Makati CBD gives you easy access to modern amenities and an upscale lifestyle with easy access to the city’s prestigious shopping centers and dining options.

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Makatizens also benefit from immediate access to world-class healthcare facilities and reputable schools. These are also reasons for its appeal to expatriates who seek a cosmopolitan environment and high-quality amenities.

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Overall, Makati CBD’s infrastructures support a healthy, balanced lifestyle where work and wellness coexist. Although the exclusivity and quality of life in this city come at a price, the overall convenience and prestige make it one of the best places to live in Manila.

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4. Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig

Young families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle within a secure environment will thrive in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig, a few minutes' drive from the busy Makati CBD.  

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Boasting a master-planned urban layout, BGC emphasizes walkability, green spaces, and accessibility. It also has easy access to major roads like EDSA and C5 via different public transportation options within the city. High-rise condominiums are common in BGC, with a few townhouses and houses available in nearby gated communities.

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Premium condominiums in BGC are also great for families, as this global city hosts some of the country's top international schools. Premier healthcare institutions are also nearby, offering residents world-class medical services.

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More than a residential area, BGC is also a dynamic commercial district in Metro Manila. It is home to several headquarters of major multinational corporations and a hub for many startups. Hence, it offers many career opportunities for ambitious professionals.

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Like Makati CBD, living in the upscale condominiums and gated communities of BGC comes with a higher cost of living. However, this premium cost is justified by the lifestyle benefits and excellent infrastructure in the city.

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5. Ortigas Center (Mandaluyong/Pasig)

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Families, professionals, and entrepreneurs seeking a vibrant and balanced lifestyle will also thrive in Ortigas Center, the midpoint location in the metro with easy access to both the north and south of Metro Manila.

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Home to multinational corporations, financial institutions, and BPO companies, Ortigas Center is one of the best places to live in Manila for those who want to live near workplaces to minimize commute time. There are also several reputable schools and safe residential communities in this center. Hence, it is also a great choice for young families.

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Another perk of living within Ortigas Center is access to shopping centers and recreational facilities, all within walking distance. Similar to Makati CBD, this city center boasts pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage residents to walk or bike rather than rely solely on vehicles.  

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Ultimately, Ortigas Center offers a balanced urban lifestyle at mid-range pricing compared to Makati CBD and BGC. This city center also has mid- and high-rise condominium developments, serviced residences, apartments, and townhouses. Thus, it is also one of the prime condo locations in the Philippines.

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Torre Lorenzo—Strategic Living Spaces Across Manila

Metro Manila remains the top residential hub in the Philippines because it is still the country’s main economic, cultural, and lifestyle center. It houses the financial powerhouses in the country and has a flourishing real estate market supported by the growing urban population.

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Torre Lorenzo, a reputable developer of high-quality residences, has strategically located developments across key areas in the metro. Whether you’re a student, professional, entrepreneur, or starting a family, Torre Lorenzo offers properties that prioritize accessibility, security, and convenience—making them the ideal real estate investment partner if you're looking to enjoy life and thrive in Metro Manila.

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Key Locations Across the Metro:

• 1Torre Lorenzo, 2Torre Lorenzo, 3Torre Lorenzo in Taft Avenue, Manila – ideally positioned for students and faculty staff of DLSU and other nearby colleges and universities.

• Torre Lorenzo Loyola in Loyola Heights, Quezon City – a low-density premium condominium ideal for UP, Miriam, and Ateneo students who prefer a quieter and more exclusive residential experience.

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Why Torre Lorenzo Stands Out:

• Prime locations near universities, hospitals, and transport hubs

• High-quality construction and thoughtful amenities

• Designed for both long-term end-use and future value appreciation

• Strong commitment to security, sustainability, and resident wellness

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With a reputation for high-quality construction designed for both long-term end-use and value appreciation, Torre Lorenzo, a premium condo developer in the Philippines, is committed to security, sustainability, and resident wellness.

Contact Torre Lorenzo today to explore your options and find the best condominium in Manila.

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Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/torrelorenzoofficial/

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