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San Jose vs Manila

Philippines vs Philippines · 700 km apart

San Jose

Philippines

₱22,499 ($385)

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Manila

Philippines

₱32,338 ($553)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseSan JoseManilaCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$3.91$5.46San Jose
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$15.62$21.84San Jose
Cappuccino$1.17$1.64San Jose
Monthly groceries (single person)$88.54$124San Jose
Monthly public transport pass$14.32$20.02San Jose
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$37.76$52.78San Jose
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$10.94$15.29San Jose
Fitness club membership$10.94$15.29San Jose
Cinema ticket$2.86$4.00San Jose
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$179$271San Jose
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$124$189San Jose
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$373$566San Jose
Total single-person budget$385$553San Jose
Average net salary$391$546

Verdict

San Jose is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in San Jose runs about $385 versus $553 in Manila — a difference of roughly 44%.

Salary-adjusted, San Jose 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 San Jose  ·  Full cost of living in Manila

Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Jose cheaper than Manila?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $385 per month in San Jose versus $553 in Manila — about 44% less.
How far is San Jose from Manila?
The straight-line distance between San Jose and Manila is approximately 700 km (435 miles).
Which city has better salaries, San Jose or Manila?
The estimated average net salary is $391 in San Jose and $546 in Manila. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $6 in San Jose versus $0 in Manila per month.