Cost of Living in Dumaguete
A complete monthly cost breakdown for expats living in Dumaguete, Philippines. All prices in USD.
Last updated: 2026-03-15
Monthly budget estimates
Budget
$500/mo
Basic apartment, local food, minimal extras.
Moderate
$900/mo
Comfortable apartment, mix of dining, some travel.
Comfortable
$1,650/mo
Premium apartment, Western lifestyle, private healthcare.
Rent
avg $250/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment (city center) | $140 | $230 | $380 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $200 | $300 | $500 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | $120 | $195 | $310 | per month |
Food & Groceries
avg $140/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $1.5 | $2 | $3.5 | per meal |
| Western restaurant meal | $6 | $10 | $15 | per meal |
| Groceries (weekly) | $15 | $25 | $40 | per week |
Transport
avg $28/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeepney/bus monthly | $10 | $25 | $50 | per month |
| Grab/taxi (per ride) | $1 | $2.5 | $5 | per ride |
Utilities
avg $68/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric + water | $40 | $68 | $105 | per month |
| Mobile phone plan | $6 | $10 | $16 | per month |
Healthcare
avg $32/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $6 | $15 | $30 | per visit |
| Health insurance (basic) | $15 | $30 | $60 | per month |
Internet
avg $22/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 50Mbps | $14 | $22 | $35 | per month |
Entertainment
avg $40/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | $12 | $22 | $45 | per month |
| Movie ticket | $2 | $3.5 | $6 | per ticket |
Explore Dumaguete beyond the numbers
Read our full city guide — neighbourhoods, safety, internet speeds, expat community, and more.