5 Places to Retire in Iloilo


Finding a place to retire can be a tricky balancing act. While many retirees, after so many frenetic years in the workforce, will gravitate towards more tranquil countryside locales, considerations such as health and distance require some proximity to towns and city centers. One place that offers the best of both worlds is the province of Iloilo, the rising star of the Western Visayas region. Apart from its pristine beaches and luscious cuisine, Iloilo is fast becoming known for its development and investment prospects, making it attractive for entrepreneurs of all ages, from all walks of life. Read on to find our top 5 picks for places to retire in the province of Iloilo, and where to find them!

1. Villa Arevalo, Iloilo City

Fancy waking up each day to the refreshing sea breeze? Then look no further than the district of Villa Arevalo, also simply known as Arevalo, in Iloilo City! This district is known also for its floral craft, giving it the name of “The Flower Capital of Iloilo”. Being one of the city’s oldest districts, it has a rich history centered around its church, which houses the 3rd oldest Santo Niño image in the Philippines. It is easily accessible via public transport and private cars, which readily connect it to the Iloilo City proper.

2. Jaro, Iloilo City

Once an independent city, Jaro is now considered part of the Iloilo City’s metropolis. This historical town is home to many ancestral houses owned by families that have made their names in the local trades and crafts. The entrepreneurial tradition still continues in Jaro, which has seen a recent boom in the retail sector. This district is ideal for retirees who are looking to have a ‘second wind’ with a business of their own, or for those who wish to retire in a place of much history.

3. Santa Barbara

Once also a district of Jaro, Santa Barbara is now considered an independent municipality. It is in close proximity to the Iloilo City proper, and can be reached via various forms of public transport. This municipality’s prime attraction is the Iloilo Golf and Country Club. This 18-hole course is one of the oldest in Asia, and attracts avid golfers from all around the region and even overseas. For retirees living the high life, Santa Barbara is definitely the place to go!

4. Oton

Oton, a first-class agricultural municipality, is considered part of the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras area. This part of Iloilo, as well as the neighboring province of Guimaras, is eyed as a place for rapid growth and investment. The business attraction here in Oton is agriculture and horticulture, with the rise of farm tourism and other entrepreneurship ventures. Retirees can enjoy a relaxed pace of life a little further away from the hustle and bustle of the Iloilo town proper, while immersing in the unique culture of Oton. Nevertheless, it is only a short ride to the urban centers of Iloilo, making it convenient for retirees who need healthcare and other necessities.

5. Pavia

The smallest municipality in the province of Iloilo has much to offer in the way of history, culture, and business opportunities. Pavia has a unique red brick parish church, making it appear quite similar to the church in this town’s Italian namesake. The Ilonggo town of Pavia is also known for its colourful festivals and its long-standing pottery tradition. Retirees in this town can enjoy its one of a kind charm and culture, while remaining in relatively close proximity to the metropolis of Iloilo and neighboring towns such as Sta. Barbara and San Miguel. What makes Iloilo particularly attractive for retirees is the balance of rest and opportunity that this place offers. As more and more retirees pursue active lifestyles and venture into novel pursuits, places like Iloilo are poised to offer much in the way of new business and entrepreneurial prospects, necessities such as healthcare and emergency services, and attractions such as restaurants, cultural events and tourist spots, all within close reach of one another. With the push for development outside of Metro Manila, retirees can surely expect to find a warm welcome in Iloilo and its environs.

photo via exploreiloilo.com

JL Santiago Aquino

A millennial lifestyle blogger from Caloocan City who adores trying new things. ✨ Email: blog.ph7@gmail.com. Follow @JayL_Aquino on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & Facebook.

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