Cost of Living in Manila

Dense, English-speaking megacity; offers a low cost of living and easy social integration, despite traffic woes.
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£867

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
54%
Groceries
22%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
1%
Utilities
11%
Leisure
5%
Property
54%
Groceries
22%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
1%
Utilities
11%
Leisure
5%

Karaoke & mall culture

Tropical bay environment

BPO/Call centers; high density energy

Cost of living breakdown for Manila

Living costs in Manila can vary. You can expect to spend around £867 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

£414Average rent per month in Manila
£3,275Price per m² (city centre)
£1,970Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index25
Quality of life index23
Safety index41
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Manila average costs for food and drink.

£171Monthly groceries/person
£58Dining out average cost/person
£2Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Manila average salaries and services.

£338Average Monthly Net Salary in Manila
£11Transport
Healthcare62
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Manila

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£413.77£288.59 - £601.23
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£208.79£102.21 - £300.61
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£1,404.19£721.47 - £1,875.82
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£552.83£300.61 - £961.95

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Manila depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs £453 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £1,577. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £414 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Manila costs £0.36. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £11.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Manila is currently £338.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Manila costs approximately £4, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £20.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Manila for a single person is £453, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Manila, the estimated monthly costs are £1,577, not including rent.

Rent prices in Manila depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is £414, compared to £209 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £1,404 in the centre and £553 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Manila (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £87 per month. Internet access typically adds another £18.