Philippines
Cost of Living in Manila
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 21.8Rent: 9.8Groceries: 39.6Restaurant: 22.8
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$520/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$786/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$977/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $369 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $238 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $230 |
| Restaurant Meal | $6 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $11 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $86 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Manila?
Compare Manila with other cities at specific budget levels:
Other Cities in Philippines
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Manila?
A minimal monthly budget in Manila is approximately $520, a typical budget is $786, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $977 per month.
How much is rent in Manila?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Manila city center costs approximately $369/month. Outside the center, expect around $238/month.
Is Manila expensive compared to New York?
Manila's COL+Rent Index is 21.8 compared to New York's 100, meaning Manila is about 78% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Manila?
Monthly groceries in Manila cost approximately $230. The city's Groceries Index is 39.6 (NYC = 100).