City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Mexico City vs Manila — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Mexico City
Moderate
COL+Rent: 34.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo covers essentials with some leisure in Mexico City.
Manila
Comfortable
COL+Rent: 21.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo comfortably covers expenses in Manila.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Mexico City | Manila | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $841 | $609 | +$232 |
| Groceries | $279 | $461 | $182 |
| Dining Out | $159 | $144 | +$15 |
| Transportation | $29 | $22 | +$7 |
| Utilities | $65 | $172 | $107 |
| Other / Misc | $127 | $92 | +$35 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Mexico City
$1,500
per month
Manila equivalent
$940
per month
Only $940/mo in Manila matches $1,500/mo in Mexico City — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Mexico City on $1,500/month?
Living in Mexico City on $1,500/mo is rated "Moderate". Budget allocates ~$841 to rent, $279 to groceries, $159 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 Mexico City or Manila cheaper?
Manila is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Mexico City 34.8 vs Manila 21.8 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Mexico City worth in Manila?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Mexico City equals ~$940/mo in Manila using COL adjustment.