Overview
- Makati offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, and choosing the right neighborhood is key to experiencing the best of city living.
Makati is the heart of commerce and cosmopolitan living in the Philippines, offering an upscale lifestyle like no other. With its dynamic energy, thriving business hubs, and vibrant social scene, it’s no surprise that many people are eager to find the perfect place to call home in this bustling city.
With 33 barangays to choose from, selecting the right address can feel overwhelming. Factors like proximity to work, leisure spots, and essential amenities all come into play. To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up the best neighborhoods in Makati—five top locations with high-end condominiums where you can experience the best of city living.
San Antonio is one of the seven barangays in Makati’s west cluster, located on the north side of the city, also known as NOMA. Spanning over 800,000 square meters, it covers 3.3% of Makati’s total land area. Originally called Barrio Camichile, it was later renamed in honor of its patron saint, San Antonio de Padua.
This vibrant neighborhood is a cultural hub, surrounded by art, music, and culinary hotspots. It boasts a mix of business establishments, from wine shops and restaurants to galleries and indie music venues—perfect for those who appreciate a creative, urban lifestyle.
Among the sought-after residences in this area is The Rise Makati, a high-end development that blends modern design with easy access to key destinations. The neighborhood is also home to notable landmarks like the Yuchengco Museum, the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart, and Makati Medical Center. Its close proximity to the Makati CBD makes it an attractive choice for professionals and city dwellers alike.
Urdaneta is one of the city’s smallest neighborhoods. Along with Forbes Park, San Lorenzo, and Bel-Air, it is one of the first centrally planned communities by the Ayala Family. It effortlessly embraces every residential and commercial spot in a space of over 700,000 square meters.
The distinct bounds along one of the biggest arteries of Metro Manila, EDSA highway. Because of this, many residents usually flock to places like Bonifacio Global City for hangouts. It is also along Buendia, formerly known as Gil Puyat. This avenue gives them access to amenities within the city like the CBD.
The neighborhood’s main residential area is the Urdaneta Village. It is within the land area of the city, avoiding the hustle and bustle of the major roads. Within its confines, you can find their clubhouse. Yet, just outside of it, their most noticeable architecture is The Atrium, a brutalist-style commercial building.
One of the best neighborhoods in Makati is Bel-Air. It is an affluent community that half surrounds Urdaneta. Originally, the two barangays were one village with the name Beldaneta. It was established in the 1950’s with four Bel-Air phases. The quaint district includes Ayala North, Buendia Avenue Extension, the Ayala Triangle, and the Salcedo Village.
Even though it is close to the business district, there is still a laid-back atmosphere. It may be because the district is rich in spaces that elevate your lifestyles. This includes gyms, trendy restaurants, popular coffee shops, and more.
To strengthen their sense of community, the barangay is popular for Pasinaya, an annual dance competition. It is often organized by their dedicated barangay officials.
Legazpi Village blends hip and easy-going lifestyles in Makati’s central business district. While it houses many companies, it still provides pockets of greenery here and there. You can see it in the district’s tree-lined streets and small gardens.
Residents of this neighborhood balance both work and play. This is all thanks to the fairness between offices and recreational spots all over the village. It sits perfectly still in the middle of the CBD despite the rush all around it. Acting as a small retreat, Legazpi Village is the home for many leisure activities. This can be dining in restaurants, meeting over coffee, exercising in the park, and more.
It is located in San Lorenzo, Makati, a cluster 1 barangay. Because it is within this district, Legazpi Village residents can easily go to places like Greenbelt, Glorietta, and SM Makati.
Known as one of the most opulent addresses in the metro, Forbes Park is another neighborhood in the city. It sits on the southeast area of Makati on the other side of the EDSA highway. Named after an American millionaire and once-elected general governor, it is the home to the richest families. From business moguls to celebrities, Forbes Park is notorious for being an elite neighborhood.
It is one of Makati’s suburban areas, making it secure and peaceful. The most prominent establishments in the neighborhood are The Manila Polo Club and the Manila Golf and Country Club. These two amenities make up the naturally laid-back atmosphere of the place.
Living options in Forbes Park are extremely high-priced mansions, fitting the culture of affluence of the existing residents.
Finding your ideal place is a journey of personal discovery. It is all about finding what works for you and your lifestyle. Prioritizing your preferences can make sure that your experience in Makati is more than you expected. In exploring each neighborhood, lead an open mind and allow yourself to be immersed in their unique atmosphere.
If you want to live in a location that will meet all your needs, consider The Rise at San Antonio, Makati. Thanks to Ayala Avenue, you have direct access to all the best amenities the city can offer. This 62-story condo is strategically located near the business district and many recreational or shopping centers. With thousands of units ranging from studio to two-bedroom types, The Rise offers you a versatile space to call home. Contact us today and settle down in one of the best neighborhoods in the city!
