Cost of Living in Philippines
Last updated on Jan 04, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in the Philippines is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice one bedroom apartment in the Philippines can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost from $600 to $1,200 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in the Philippines is usually around $10 to $15 per person.
Is the cost of living in Philippines high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Philippines, they wrote:
"For Air conditioning, internet, phone, cable TV, water, tax, transportation, pharmacy, food and hardware, and all extras cost me $1200 Canadian dollars a month," said one expat in Prudential Village, Daliao, Davao City.
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Will I save money living in Philippines?
"Having been here before I had a good idea of what to expect after retirement. My expectations have been met (and they were gracious)," remarked one expat in Angeles City.
"With the local currency weakening over the past year, it has exceeded my plans. I have good spending power here, but try to economize when possible," explained one expat living in Cebu City.
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What is the average cost of housing in Philippines?
If you are thinking about moving to Philippines, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"I found housing costs to be equal to the US. I think I was just an easy target. Big company, big allowance. I would be inclined to do the same had I been the landlord," explained one expat living in Angeles City.
"Much lower. Total cost of our house in Philippines in 2000 was 10,000 including all white goods and three months building work. (Really.) Similar property in the UK multiply by a factor of at least 10," said one expat in Guimaras.
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What are typical rental prices for expats in Philippines?
"The price of a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Philippines can vary greatly depending on location, size, and amenities. On average, rental prices for a 1 bedroom apartment range from about $250 to up to $800 per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $400 to up to $1800 per month, depending on the same criteria," wrote an expat living in Philippines.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Philippines what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in the Philippines often come with basic kitchen appliances, such as a refrigerator and a stove. Additionally, washing machines, microwave ovens, and water heaters may be included in some rental properties. Generally, air-conditioners and other electrical appliances are not provided in the rental properties and are the responsibility of the tenant," said one expat living in Philippines.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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