Cost of Living in Cebu City
A complete monthly cost breakdown for expats living in Cebu City, Philippines. All prices in USD.
Last updated: 2026-03-15
Monthly budget estimates
Budget
$700/mo
Basic apartment, local food, minimal extras.
Moderate
$1,300/mo
Comfortable apartment, mix of dining, some travel.
Comfortable
$2,350/mo
Premium apartment, Western lifestyle, private healthcare.
Rent
avg $400/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment (city center) | $250 | $380 | $600 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $350 | $500 | $800 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | $200 | $320 | $500 | per month |
Food & Groceries
avg $200/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $2 | $3 | $5 | per meal |
| Western restaurant meal | $8 | $14 | $22 | per meal |
| Groceries (weekly) | $20 | $35 | $55 | per week |
Transport
avg $45/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeepney/bus monthly | $15 | $40 | $80 | per month |
| Grab/taxi (per ride) | $2 | $4 | $8 | per ride |
Utilities
avg $90/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric + water | $55 | $90 | $140 | per month |
| Mobile phone plan | $8 | $12 | $20 | per month |
Healthcare
avg $45/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $8 | $20 | $45 | per visit |
| Health insurance (basic) | $20 | $40 | $80 | per month |
Internet
avg $28/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 50Mbps | $18 | $28 | $45 | per month |
Entertainment
avg $60/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | $18 | $35 | $70 | per month |
| Movie ticket | $3 | $5 | $8 | per ticket |
Explore Cebu City beyond the numbers
Read our full city guide — neighbourhoods, safety, internet speeds, expat community, and more.