Cost of Living in Manila
A complete monthly cost breakdown for expats living in Manila, Philippines. All prices in USD.
Last updated: 2026-03-15
Monthly budget estimates
Budget
$600/mo
Basic apartment, local food, minimal extras.
Moderate
$1,100/mo
Comfortable apartment, mix of dining, some travel.
Comfortable
$1,950/mo
Premium apartment, Western lifestyle, private healthcare.
Rent
avg $300/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartment (city center) | $200 | $300 | $450 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $250 | $400 | $600 | per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | $150 | $250 | $400 | per month |
Food & Groceries
avg $180/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local restaurant meal | $1.5 | $2.5 | $4 | per meal |
| Western restaurant meal | $5 | $8 | $15 | per meal |
| Groceries (weekly) | $20 | $35 | $55 | per week |
Transport
avg $35/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeepney/bus monthly | $15 | $30 | $60 | per month |
| Grab/taxi (per ride) | $2 | $4 | $8 | per ride |
Utilities
avg $80/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric + water | $50 | $80 | $120 | per month |
| Mobile phone plan | $5 | $10 | $20 | per month |
Healthcare
avg $40/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $8 | $20 | $40 | per visit |
| Health insurance (basic) | $20 | $40 | $80 | per month |
Internet
avg $25/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber 35Mbps | $18 | $25 | $40 | per month |
Entertainment
avg $50/mo| Item | Low | Mid | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | $15 | $30 | $60 | per month |
| Movie ticket | $3 | $5 | $8 | per ticket |
Explore Manila beyond the numbers
Read our full city guide — neighbourhoods, safety, internet speeds, expat community, and more.