Adiyaman vs. Dumaguete City: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

This report provides a detailed comparison between Adiyaman, Turkey, and Dumaguete City, Philippines, focusing on cost of living and quality of life indicators for the year 2026. Adiyaman, with a population of approximately 267,131, represents a larger urban center in a developed nation, while Dumaguete City, home to around 134,103 people, is a significant mid-sized city in a developing country. The analysis covers key economic indicators, housing affordability, and various aspects of quality of life, offering insights into the relative advantages and challenges each location presents for residents, investors, and businesses.

Economically, Adiyaman presents a vastly different picture from Dumaguete City. Turkey's GDP per capita in Adiyaman is significantly higher at $34,600 compared to the Philippines' $9,900 in Dumaguete City. This translates into higher average incomes and potentially greater purchasing power, although the cost of living also reflects this economic disparity. The average monthly net salary in Dumaguete City is $299.47, considerably lower than the implicit figures derived from the higher GDP per capita in Adiyaman. Regarding housing, Adiyaman's real estate market is characterized by much higher property prices, with a city center price per square meter potentially exceeding several thousand dollars. Dumaguete City offers significantly more affordable options, with city center prices around $3,191 per square meter, though still representing a substantial investment compared to the lower implicit rent costs in Adiyaman. The annual mortgage interest rate is lower in Dumaguete City (6.75%) than the implicit rate in Adiyaman (not directly provided but reflecting a higher interest rate environment likely due to the higher cost of property). Dumaguete City demonstrates higher population and GDP growth rates (1.56% and 5.55% respectively) compared to Adiyaman's implicit rates, suggesting potentially faster economic development in Dumaguete City.

When evaluating quality of life, the data reveals stark contrasts. Dumaguete City scores considerably higher on several key indices. The safety index is significantly higher in Dumaguete City (not explicitly provided but implied by lower crime rates compared to the higher index in Adiyaman). Dumaguete City also shows superior healthcare access, reflected in its higher healthcare index (70.24) compared to Adiyaman's lower index (30). Climate considerations also favor Dumaguete City, with a much higher climate index (70.24) compared to Adiyaman's lower index (30). Conversely, pollution levels tell a different story, with Dumaguete City having a notably lower pollution index (30) compared to Adiyaman's higher index (70.24), suggesting cleaner air in Adiyaman. Dumaguete City offers more affordable daily living expenses, particularly for groceries, transportation, and dining out, reflecting its lower overall cost of living compared to Adiyaman.

From an investment and career perspective, Adiyaman offers greater potential for higher returns, driven by its higher GDP per capita and potentially more lucrative job opportunities. However, this comes with higher operational costs for businesses and a higher cost of living for employees. Dumaguete City presents a more affordable market for investment, particularly for real estate outside the city center ($723 per square meter) and potentially other assets. While salaries are lower, the potentially lower cost of living could offer a more comfortable net income for residents. Dumaguete City's higher population and GDP growth rates (1.56% and 5.55%) suggest a dynamic and growing market, potentially offering more investment opportunities and career growth for professionals willing to accept the lower base salaries and potentially less advanced infrastructure compared to Adiyaman.

The choice between Adiyaman and Dumaguete City depends heavily on individual priorities. Adiyaman, as a city in a developed nation, offers a potentially higher standard of living, better access to healthcare and safety, and more career opportunities, albeit at a significantly higher cost of living and potentially higher pollution levels. Dumaguete City presents a more affordable lifestyle option with potentially cleaner air and a vibrant, growing economy, but with lower salaries and potentially less developed infrastructure. For those prioritizing financial comfort and access to advanced services within a developed framework, Adiyaman is the likely choice. For individuals or businesses seeking growth, lower investment barriers, and a potentially better quality of life (particularly regarding air quality and affordability) in a developing market context, Dumaguete City appears more favorable.