How Far Does Your Money Go?

Real numbers for living in the Philippines. Costs in USD, updated March 2026.

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Quick Answer: How Much Does It Cost?

$800–1,000
Budget lifestyle
Studio, local food, jeepneys
$1,200–1,800
Comfortable lifestyle
1BR, dining out, Grab, AC
$2,500+
Premium lifestyle
2BR in BGC/Makati, imported goods

Per person, outside Metro Manila. Manila costs 20–40% more. As of March 2026 β€” Numbeo data

Your dollar goes significantly further in the Philippines than in the U.S. β€” especially outside Metro Manila. The biggest variables are housing, AC usage, and whether you eat local or imported food.

Below is a detailed breakdown by category. For city-specific budgets, see our cheapest places to live or Dumaguete cost guide.

$1,200
Comfortable monthly
lifestyle average
(outside Metro Manila, as of March 2026)
Expense Budget / Local Mid-Range Comfortable / Expat
1-BR Apartment (city) $200–300/mo Low $350–600/mo Mid $700–1,200/mo High
Groceries (monthly) $80–120 $150–250 $300–450
Dining out (per meal) $1–3 (carinderia) $5–12 (casual resto) $15–30 (Western)
Transport (monthly) $20–40 (jeepney/bus) $60–100 (Grab + tricycle) $150–250 (car + fuel)
Utilities (elec, water) $40–70 $80–140 $150–250
Internet (fiber, 100Mbps) $15–30/month (PLDT, Globe, Converge)
Doctor visit (private) $10–20 (GP) Β· $25–50 (specialist)
Beer (local, 330ml) $0.80–1.50 Β· San Miguel, Red Horse
Domestic flight (1-way) $20–60 Β· Manila ↔ Cebu, Davao, Palawan

🌴 Budget Lifestyle

$700–900/mo
  • Tier-2 city or province
  • Simple apartment or guesthouse
  • Local food + markets
  • Public transport
  • Basic amenities

🏙️ Comfortable Expat Life

$1,200–1,800/mo
  • Cebu, Davao, or Bacolod
  • Modern condo with AC
  • Mix of local + Western dining
  • Grab + occasional car rental
  • Gym, travel, entertainment

✨ Premium Manila/BGC

$2,000–3,500/mo
  • Makati, BGC, or top Cebu condo
  • Upscale apartment + amenities
  • Western restaurants & bars
  • Private car or driver
  • International school, travel
💸

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