If you’re planning to move to the Philippines, one of your first questions is likely, “How much does it cost to live there?”
Good news — the Philippines remains one of the most affordable countries in Asia for expats. With careful budgeting, you can live comfortably without sacrificing lifestyle.
Average Monthly Cost of Living
Your expenses will vary depending on location, lifestyle, and housing choices. Below is an overview of typical monthly costs in 2025 (in U.S. dollars).
| Expense Category | Metro Manila | Cebu | Davao | Smaller Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR Apartment) | $400–$800 | $350–$700 | $300–$600 | $200–$400 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) | $100–$150 | $90–$130 | $80–$120 | $70–$100 |
| Groceries & Food | $250–$400 | $200–$350 | $180–$300 | $150–$250 |
| Dining Out | $100–$200 | $80–$150 | $70–$120 | $50–$100 |
| Transportation | $40–$100 | $30–$70 | $30–$70 | $20–$50 |
| Entertainment | $50–$150 | $40–$100 | $30–$90 | $20–$60 |
| Estimated Total | $940–$1,800 | $790–$1,500 | $690–$1,300 | $510–$960 |
Housing and Rent
Housing is where most of your budget goes.
Expats can choose from modern condos in the city to peaceful beachside houses in smaller towns.
- Metro Manila: Premium condos in Makati or BGC average $600–$1,200 monthly.
- Cebu: Offers great mid-range options from $350–$800.
- Davao & Iloilo: Affordable and safe, with nice apartments under $500.
- Angeles City: Offers every rage of housing from $100-$1000 per month, depending on location.
- Small Provinces: In rural areas, you can find small apartments for around $100 or less monthly.
Tip: Check Facebook Marketplace, PH Expats Classifieds, DotProperty, or Lamudi for local listings, but visit in person before signing leases.
Food and Dining
Groceries and dining are budget-friendly compared to Western countries.
You can easily spend less than $10 at a casual restaurant. Street food and local eateries (“carinderias”) are even cheaper.
Sample prices (2025):
- Bottle of local beer: $1.20
- Fast-food combo: $3.50
- Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: $15
- One week of groceries for one person: $40–$60
Transportation
Public transport is inexpensive. Jeepneys, tricycles, and buses are the backbone of daily commuting.
Grab (the local equivalent of Uber) is widely used in cities.
Average Grab fare for short trips: $2–$5
Monthly commute using public transit: $25–$40
If you plan to drive, remember to convert your license after 90 days at the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Healthcare and Insurance
Private healthcare in the Philippines is high-quality and affordable.
A visit to a private doctor costs $15–$25, while a full annual health insurance plan from providers like AXA or Pacific Cross costs around $800–$1,200 per year.
Expats also benefit from the PhilHealth system, though it’s best used as supplementary coverage.
Entertainment and Lifestyle
Life in the Philippines is social and laid-back.
Gym memberships cost around $30–$60 per month, while movie tickets are $4–$6.
Weekend trips to nearby beaches or resorts are common — and usually under $100 for two people.
Internet and Utilities
High-speed internet (fiber) is now common in most urban areas.
- Average speed: 50–200 Mbps
- Monthly cost: $30–$60
Electricity is higher due to air conditioning use — expect $70–$120 monthly for moderate use.
Money-Saving Tips for Expats
- Live outside city centers (saves 30–40% on rent).
- Use local markets instead of supermarkets.
- Learn basic Tagalog or Bisaya to avoid “foreigner pricing.”
- Use GCash or Maya for payments — they often have cashback deals.
- Split housing with another expat or local friend to reduce costs.
Final Thoughts
Living in the Philippines can cost less than half of what you’d spend in the U.S., without giving up comfort or community.
Whether you prefer the nightlife of Manila, the beaches of Cebu, or the calm of Davao, your money stretches far here — especially if you adapt to local habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a single person need to live comfortably in the Philippines?
Between $1,000 and $1,500 per month provides a comfortable lifestyle, including rent, food, and transportation.
2. Can you live in the Philippines on $1,000 a month?
Yes, especially outside Manila. Many expats in Davao or Dumaguete live well on $800–$1,000 monthly.
3. Is healthcare affordable for foreigners?
Yes. Private healthcare is excellent and much cheaper than in the U.S. Full health plans range from $800–$1,200 per year.
4. Is the Philippines cheaper than Thailand or Vietnam?
Yes for rent and utilities, though slightly higher for imported goods.
5. Do expats pay taxes in the Philippines?
If you work for a local employer or run a business, yes. Retirees or those with income abroad are usually exempt.
