Philippines Cost of Living
Cost of Living in the Philippines for Expats
The Philippines offers one of Southeast Asia's best value propositions for expats. Budget-conscious expats can live comfortably on $700–$900/month outside Manila, while those seeking a comfortable lifestyle typically spend $1,200–$2,000/month.
Budget
$600 – $900
Smaller cities like Dumaguete or Baguio. Local food, shared accommodation or cheap apartment.
Moderate
$1,000 – $1,500
Mid-tier apartment in a good area, mix of local and Western dining, occasional travel.
Comfortable
$1,800 – $3,000+
Manila or Cebu BGC. Western amenities, premium apartment, dining out regularly, private healthcare.
Why expats choose the Philippines
The Philippines consistently ranks as one of the most affordable destinations in Asia for Western expats. Your money stretches significantly further than in the US, UK, or Australia — a dollar goes roughly 3–5x further in most categories.
Rent is the biggest variable. In Manila's Bonifacio Global City, expect to pay $800–$1,500/month for a modern 1-bedroom. In Dumaguete or Baguio, the same quality apartment rents for $200–$400/month. Food costs are low across the board — eating local costs $3–$6/day, while Western-style grocery shopping runs $200–$400/month.
Healthcare is a major draw. Private health insurance for an expat under 50 typically costs $80–$180/month, and world-class hospitals in Manila and Cebu charge a fraction of Western prices for procedures and consultations.
Quick facts
- Currency
- Philippine Peso (PHP)
- USD exchange rate
- ~₱56 to $1
- Average internet
- 50–100 Mbps in cities
- Local meal
- $2–$5
- Beer (local)
- $0.80–$1.50
- Monthly healthcare
- $80–$180
Monthly budget by city
All figures in USD. Click a city name to see the full cost breakdown.
| City | Budget / mo | Moderate / mo | Comfortable / mo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dumaguete | $500 | $900 | $1,650 |
| Iloilo City | $500 | $800 | $1,400 |
| Baguio City | $550 | $1,000 | $1,750 |
| Angeles City | $600 | $1,000 | $1,800 |
| Davao City | $600 | $1,100 | $1,950 |
| Manila | $600 | $1,100 | $1,950 |
| Tagaytay | $600 | $1,000 | $1,700 |
| Cebu City | $700 | $1,300 | $2,350 |
| Siargao | $700 | $1,200 | $2,000 |
| Subic Bay | $700 | $1,100 | $1,900 |
| Makati | $900 | $1,600 | $2,750 |
| Bonifacio Global City | $1,200 | $2,100 | $3,650 |
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