There is no way to obtain the legal authorization without employer's assistance, other than getting US residence through family ties. So the best way for you is to first get employers interested in you, enough to apply for a work visa.
A budget of $1000 a month will be a good start, depending on your lifestyle and area where you want to live, said Pinay Mentor in her article, Retiring and Living in the Philippines for expats, non-expats and returning Filipinos.
1 Cost of living in Brisbane is 119% more expensive than in Vereeniging. 2  Cost of living in Toronto is 5% more expensive than in Vancouver. 3  Cost of living in Perth is 113% more expensive than in Cape Town.  Cost of living in Cuenca is 48% cheaper than in Portland.