| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rentals | A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Tagaytay can cost around PHP 15,000 to PHP 20,000 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the same area can cost around PHP 25,000 to PHP 35,000 per month. |
| Apartment Purchases | The price of apartments in Tagaytay can vary greatly depending on the location and the size of the property. On average, a new apartment in the city center can cost around PHP 60,000 to PHP 100,000 per square meter. In the outskirts, the price can drop to around PHP 40,000 to PHP 60,000 per square meter. |
| Transportation | Public transportation in Tagaytay is relatively affordable. A one-way ticket on local transport can cost around PHP 20. A monthly pass can cost around PHP 1,000. Taxi start (normal tariff) is around PHP 40, and the taxi 1km (normal tariff) is around PHP 13-15. |
| Groceries | The cost of groceries in Tagaytay is relatively low compared to other cities in the Philippines. For example, a liter of milk can cost around PHP 85, a loaf of fresh white bread can cost around PHP 50, and a dozen eggs can cost around PHP 80. A kilogram of local cheese can cost around PHP 300, and a kilogram of chicken fillets can cost around PHP 200. |
| Restaurants | A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around PHP 200. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant can cost around PHP 1,000. A regular cappuccino can cost around PHP 100. |
| Utilities | Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage can cost around PHP 4,000 to PHP 6,000 per month. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) can cost around PHP 1,500 to PHP 2,000 per month. |
| Private School Tuition | Private school tuition can vary greatly depending on the school. On average, the annual tuition for preschool can cost around PHP 50,000 to PHP 100,000. For elementary school, the annual tuition can cost around PHP 100,000 to PHP 200,000. For middle school and high school, the annual tuition can cost around PHP 150,000 to PHP 300,000. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Tagaytay City
“The cost of living in Tagaytay City is considered moderate compared to other cities in the country. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite affordable, while a similar apartment outside the city center is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also relatively low. Groceries in Tagaytay City are reasonably priced, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower costs. Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant is quite affordable, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can be a bit more expensive. Public transportation in Tagaytay City is also quite affordable, with a one-way ticket on local transport being very cheap. However, owning a car can be quite expensive, with gasoline prices being quite high. Healthcare in Tagaytay City is also reasonably priced, with a short visit to a private doctor costing a moderate amount. Fitness and sports activities are also quite affordable in the city. Overall, the cost of living in Tagaytay City is quite manageable, especially for those earning a decent income. However, like any other city, the cost can vary greatly depending on one’s lifestyle and spending habits,” said one expat living in Tagaytay City.
Can I live in Tagaytay City on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Tagaytay City for a few years now and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, you’ll have to make some adjustments and sacrifices. For instance, you might not be able to dine out at high-end restaurants or go on expensive trips every weekend. But, you can still enjoy a good quality of life. Tagaytay is a popular tourist destination, so there are areas that are more expensive than others. Neighborhoods like Ayala Westgrove Heights, Tagaytay Highlands, and Crosswinds are some of the pricier areas. They offer luxury homes and amenities, but the cost of living there can be quite high. On the other hand, there are more affordable neighborhoods where you can still enjoy the cool climate and beautiful views that Tagaytay is known for. Areas like Mendez, Silang Junction North, and Mahogany Avenue offer more reasonably priced accommodations. In terms of utilities, electricity can be quite expensive, especially if you use air conditioning. But the good news is, Tagaytay has a cooler climate compared to other parts of the Philippines, so you might not need to use the AC as much. Groceries are also reasonably priced. You can get fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood at local markets for a fraction of the cost you’d pay in the US. Transportation is also affordable. You can get around the city by tricycle or jeepney for a very small fee. If you prefer to drive, gasoline prices are lower than in many Western countries. Healthcare is another area where you can save money. The cost of medical care in the Philippines is significantly lower than in the US, and there are several good hospitals and clinics in and around Tagaytay. So, while you might have to make some adjustments, I believe you can live comfortably in Tagaytay on $1,500 a month. It’s all about finding the right balance between your lifestyle and your budget,” commented an expat living in Tagaytay City.
Can I live in Tagaytay City on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Tagaytay City for a few years now and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many Western countries. For instance, you can rent a decent two-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood for around $500 a month. If you want to live in a more upscale neighborhood like Ayala Westgrove Heights or Tagaytay Highlands, the rent could go up to $1,000 or more. But there are plenty of affordable options in areas like Mendez Crossing West, Silang Junction North, or Tolentino West. When it comes to utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, you’re looking at around $100 to $150 a month. Food is also quite cheap, especially if you eat local cuisine. You can spend as little as $200 a month on groceries if you’re frugal. Eating out at local restaurants is also affordable, with meals costing around $3 to $5. If you prefer Western-style restaurants, it’s a bit more expensive but still reasonable. Transportation is another area where you can save a lot. Public transportation is very cheap, with jeepney rides costing less than a dollar. If you prefer to drive, gasoline prices are also lower than in many Western countries. As for sacrifices, you might find that some Western goods are more expensive here due to import taxes. So if you’re used to certain brands from back home, you might have to either pay more or find local alternatives. Also, while Tagaytay City is quite developed, it’s not as modern as some Western cities. So you might have to adjust to things like occasional power outages or slower internet speeds. But overall, I’ve found that the lower cost of living more than makes up for these minor inconveniences. Plus, the quality of life is great. The city is known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals. There’s also plenty to do, from visiting the famous Taal Volcano to enjoying the local cuisine at the Mahogany Beef Market & Bulalohan. So yes, I’d say it’s definitely possible to live comfortably in Tagaytay City on $3,000 a month,” said one expat living in Tagaytay City.
Can I live in Tagaytay City on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Tagaytay City for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is not only possible, but you can live quite comfortably. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many Western countries. For instance, you can rent a nice, modern condo in a good neighborhood for around $500 to $700 a month. If you prefer a house, you can find a decent one for around $1,000 to $1,500 a month. The utilities including electricity, water, and internet would cost you around $100 to $200 a month. Groceries are also quite affordable. You can expect to spend around $200 to $300 a month for a couple. Eating out is also cheap. A meal at a mid-range restaurant would cost you around $10 to $15. If you prefer local food stalls, you can have a meal for as low as $2 to $3. Transportation is also cheap. You can get around the city by tricycle for less than a dollar. If you prefer to drive, gasoline costs around $1 per liter. Healthcare is also affordable. A visit to a doctor would cost you around $10 to $20. Medicines are also cheap compared to Western countries. As for the neighborhoods, I would recommend the areas near the city center like Maharlika West and Silang Junction North. These areas are close to amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, and hospitals. They are also safe and have a good community. On the other hand, I would avoid the areas near the Taal Volcano like San Jose and Alfonso. These areas are prone to volcanic activities and the cost of properties is also high due to the scenic view of the volcano. However, you might have to make some sacrifices. For instance, you might not find some of the Western brands that you are used to. You might also have to adjust to the local culture and way of life. But overall, I believe that living in Tagaytay City is a great experience. The people are friendly, the weather is great, and the cost of living is low,” commented an expat living in Tagaytay City.
