1,589 cities covered · Currency: PHP (₱) · Capital: Manila
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ₱260 ($4.45) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ₱1,042 ($17.81) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ₱78.13 ($1.34) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ₱5,903 ($101) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ₱955 ($16.32) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ₱2,518 ($43.04) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ₱729 ($12.47) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ₱729 ($12.47) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ₱191 ($3.26) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₱12,301 ($210) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ₱8,557 ($146) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₱25,671 ($439) | per month |
Manila · pop. 24,922,000
Quezon · pop. 3,084,270
Zamboanga · pop. 2,100,000
Davao · pop. 1,848,947
Caloocan · pop. 1,712,945
Taguig · pop. 1,308,085
Cebu · pop. 965,332
Rizal · pop. 887,399
Pasig · pop. 853,050
Cavite · pop. 744,511
Cagayan de Oro · pop. 741,617
General Santos · pop. 722,059
Valenzuela · pop. 714,978
Parañaque · pop. 689,992
Cavite · pop. 661,381
Bulacan · pop. 651,813
Manila · pop. 628,106
Las Piñas · pop. 615,549
Bacolod · pop. 600,783
Laguna · pop. 584,479
Laguna · pop. 575,046
Iloilo · pop. 574,000
Muntinlupa · pop. 552,225
Lapu-Lapu · pop. 497,813
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Philippines
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Philippines
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Philippines
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Philippines
Living costs in Philippines vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ₱25,920 ($443) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.