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Manila vs Shanghai

Philippines vs China · 1,851 km apart

Manila

Philippines

₱32,338 ($553)

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Shanghai

China

¥5,923 ($817)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseManilaShanghaiCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$5.46$7.68Manila
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$21.84$30.72Manila
Cappuccino$1.64$2.30Manila
Monthly groceries (single person)$124$174Manila
Monthly public transport pass$20.02$28.16Manila
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$52.78$74.24Manila
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$15.29$21.50Manila
Fitness club membership$15.29$21.50Manila
Cinema ticket$4.00$5.63Manila
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$271$438Manila
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$189$305Manila
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$566$915Manila
Total single-person budget$553$817Manila
Average net salary$546$1,472

Verdict

Manila is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Manila runs about $553 versus $817 in Shanghai — a difference of roughly 48%.

Salary-adjusted, Shanghai leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Manila  ·  Full cost of living in Shanghai

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Manila cheaper than Shanghai?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $553 per month in Manila versus $817 in Shanghai — about 48% less.
How far is Manila from Shanghai?
The straight-line distance between Manila and Shanghai is approximately 1,851 km (1,150 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Manila or Shanghai?
The estimated average net salary is $546 in Manila and $1,472 in Shanghai. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $0 in Manila versus $655 in Shanghai per month.