City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs Manila — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Manila
Comfortable
COL+Rent: 21.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo comfortably covers expenses in Manila.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | Manila | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $609 | +$297 |
| Groceries | $171 | $461 | $290 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $144 | $8 |
| Transportation | $46 | $22 | +$24 |
| Utilities | $105 | $172 | $67 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $92 | +$44 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
Manila equivalent
$449
per month
Only $449/mo in Manila matches $1,500/mo in London — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in Manila on $1,500/month?
In Manila, $1,500/mo is rated "Comfortable". Allocations: $609 rent, $461 groceries, $144 dining.
Is London or Manila cheaper?
Manila is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs Manila 21.8 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in Manila?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$449/mo in Manila using COL adjustment.