Cost of Living in Makati
A complete monthly cost breakdown for expats living in Makati, Philippines. All prices in USD.
Last updated: 2026-03-15
Monthly budget estimates
Budget
$900/mo
Basic apartment, local food, minimal extras.
Moderate
$1,600/mo
Comfortable apartment, mix of dining, some travel.
Comfortable
$2,750/mo
Premium apartment, Western lifestyle, private healthcare.
Rent
avg $550/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment (CBD) | $400 | $550 | $800 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (CBD) | $500 | $700 | $1,100 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside CBD) | $300 | $450 | $650 | per month |
Food & Groceries
avg $280/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $2 | $4 | $6 | per meal |
| Western restaurant meal | $7 | $12 | $20 | per meal |
| Groceries (weekly) | $30 | $50 | $75 | per week |
Transport
avg $55/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeepney/bus monthly | $20 | $40 | $80 | per month |
| Grab/taxi (per ride) | $3 | $5 | $10 | per ride |
Utilities
avg $110/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric + water | $70 | $110 | $160 | per month |
| Mobile phone plan | $8 | $15 | $25 | per month |
Healthcare
avg $55/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $10 | $25 | $50 | per visit |
| Health insurance (basic) | $25 | $50 | $100 | per month |
Internet
avg $30/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 50Mbps | $20 | $30 | $50 | per month |
Entertainment
avg $80/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | $25 | $45 | $80 | per month |
| Movie ticket | $4 | $6 | $9 | per ticket |
Explore Makati beyond the numbers
Read our full city guide — neighbourhoods, safety, internet speeds, expat community, and more.