2022 Updated Price List on the Cost of Living in the Philippines - Careergigo (2024)

The Philippines is a beautiful country with plenty to offer its residents. Unfortunately, the cost of living can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. If you’re thinking of moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential expenses you may face. Here’s a look at a brief history of the country.

Brief History About the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful country that has plenty to offer its residents. Unfortunately, the cost of living can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. If you’re thinking of moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential expenses you may face. Here’s a look at a brief history of the country.

The Philippines is a country located in Southeast Asia. The first recorded history of the Philippines dates back to the 16th century when the Spanish began colonizing the islands. For centuries, the Philippines was under Spanish rule. In 1898, the Philippines became a US territory after the Spanish-American War. The Philippines gained independence from the US in 1946.

Since then, the Philippines has undergone several changes, both political and economic. In recent years, however, the country has experienced significant economic growth. The cost of living in the Philippines varies depending on which city you live in and your lifestyle. However, overall, the cost of living in the Philippines is relatively high compared to other Southeast Asian countries.

Read also: List of Fully Funded Scholarships in the Philippines

Benefits of Living in the Philippines

The Philippines is a beautiful country with plenty to offer its residents. The cost of living can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. However, there are many benefits to living in the Philippines. The climate is tropical, which means it is warm all year round. There are also many beaches and islands to explore.

The people are friendly and the food is delicious. There are many opportunities to learn new things and experience different cultures. If you’re thinking of moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential expenses you may face. However, the benefits of living in this amazing country far outweigh the costs.

Tips for Budgeting in the Philippines

If you’re thinking of moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential expenses you may face. The cost of living can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. Here are some tips for budgeting in the Philippines:

Know your Costs: Make sure to research the cost of living in the Philippines before making the move. Consider the costs of housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.

Make a Budget: Once you know your estimated costs, it’s time to make a budget. Determine how much money you’ll need to live comfortably in the Philippines and stick to it.

Save Money where you can: There are plenty of ways to save money in the Philippines. Shop around for the best deals on food and transportation, and consider living in a less expensive area outside of Manila.

Be Prepared for Unexpected Expenses: Despite your best efforts, there may be some unexpected costs associated with living in the Philippines. Make sure you have a cushion in your budget for these surprises.

Read also: Best Medical Schools in the Philippines

Philippines Gross Domestic Product

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Philippines is the total value of all final goods and services produced within the country in a given year. The GDP can be divided into two categories: primary and secondary. The primary sector includes agriculture, forestry, fishing, and mining. The secondary sector includes manufacturing, construction, and utilities. The tertiary sector includes transportation, communications, finance, and government.

The GDP per capita of the Philippines was $3,220 in 2017, which is lower than the average GDP per capita of $10,770 for upper middle-income countries. However, the Philippines has experienced strong economic growth in recent years, with a GDP growth rate of 6.7% in 2017. This is due to several factors, including an increase in foreign investment, strong domestic consumption, and export growth.

Different Costs of Living in the Philippines

  • Cost of Feeding

The cost of feeding in the Philippines can be quite high, especially if you’re living in the capital city of Manila. The average person spends about $150 per month on food, which is more than double the amount spent in other parts of the world. The reason for this is that the Philippines is import-dependent when it comes to food. This means that most of the food available in the country is imported, and the price reflects that. If you’re trying to save money on food, your best bet is to cook at home as much as possible. There are plenty of great recipes online that use local ingredients, so you can still enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank.

  • Cost of Transportation

The cost of transportation in the Philippines can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. The average price of a gallon of gasoline is about $3.50, and a one-way ticket on the metro can cost around $1.50. Prices for taxis and other forms of transportation can also be quite high. If you’re planning on moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential transportation costs you may face.

  • Cost of Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in the Philippines can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. Many factors contribute to this. First, the country’s currency, the Philippine peso, is not as strong as other currencies like the US dollar. This means that prices for goods and services are generally higher than they would be in other countries. Additionally, the cost of living in Manila is driven up by high demand. The city is a popular destination for ex-pats and tourists to live with their families.

Read also: Study and Work in Canada: Everything You Need to Know

  • Cost of Healthcare

The cost of healthcare in the Philippines is relatively high compared to other countries in Southeast Asia. However, there are still many affordable options available. For example, government-run hospitals offer free or low-cost care for those who cannot afford to pay. Some private hospitals and clinics offer competitive rates. In addition, many employers offer health insurance plans that can help offset the cost of medical care.

  • Cost of Insurance

The cost of insurance in the Philippines can be quite high, depending on the type of coverage you’re looking for. Many factors contribute to this, including the high crime rate and the frequency of natural disasters. If you’re looking for comprehensive coverage, you can expect to pay a premium price. However, there are many ways to save on your insurance costs, so be sure to do your research before buying a policy.

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Frequently Asked Questions
  1. How expensive is the cost of living in the Philippines?
  2. The cost of living in the Philippines can be quite high, especially in the capital city of Manila. If you’re thinking of moving to the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of the potential expenses you may face.
  3. What is the history of the Philippines?
  4. The Philippines is a beautiful country with plenty to offer its residents. The country has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century when it was first colonized by the Spanish. Since then, the Philippines has been through a lot of changes, including periods of rule by the United States and Japan. In recent years, the Philippines has become increasingly popular as a destination for tourists and ex-pats alike.
  5. What are some of the best things to see and do in the Philippines?
  6. There are plenty of great things to see and do in the Philippines. Some of the most popular attractions include beaches, mountains, and rice terraces. There are also plenty of historic sites and museums to explore. And, of course, no trip to the Philippines would be complete without trying some of the delicious food!
2022 Updated Price List on the Cost of Living in the Philippines - Careergigo (2024)

FAQs

How much is the cost of living in the Philippines per month? ›

Cost of Living in the Philippines

The Philippines has a generally low cost of living. International Living reports that you could comfortably live on $800 to $1200 a month, covering housing, utilities, food, healthcare and taxes.

What is the cost of living index in the Philippines? ›

The cost of living in the Philippines is $587, which is 1.59 times less expensive than the world average. the Philippines ranked 146th out of 197 countries by cost of living and the 106th best country to live in.

How much does house cost in Philippines? ›

Terraced houses and average standard homes (one to two bedrooms) tend to cost between Php25,700 and Php31,000 per square meter. For detached houses and high-end residences, on the other hand, the cost is between Php53,900 and Php63,150 per square meter.

Where is the best place to live in Philippines? ›

Top 10 Safest Cities To Live in the Philippines
  1. DAVAO. Davao City is the regional center of the Davao region. ...
  2. BAGUIO CITY. Baguio city, also known as the summer capital of the country wherein the most popular city here in the Philippines. ...
  3. MAKATI CITY. ...
  4. CEBU CITY. ...
  5. BACOLOD. ...
  6. ILOILO CITY. ...
  7. DUMAGUETE. ...
  8. SANTA ROSA, LAGUNA.

How long can a US citizen stay in the Philippines? ›

US citizens do not need a visa to enter the Philippines. US citizens can enter the Philippines Visa on Arrival and stay in the Philippines visa-free for up to 59-days. After 59-days, US Citizens can extend their visa by 1, 2, or 6-months at a Philippine Bureau of Immigration office.

Where is the cheapest place to live in the Philippines? ›

Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in the Philippines
  • 1) Davao City.
  • 2) Bacolod City.
  • 3) Baguio City.
  • 4) Cavite City.
  • 5) Dasmariñas City.
  • 6) Dumaguete City.
  • 7) Tarlac City.
  • 8) Cebu City.
2 Jun 2021

How much does it cost to build a house in the Philippines 2022? ›

Housing Index in Philippines is expected to be 12500.00 PHP/SQ. METRE by the end of this quarter, according to Trading Economics global macro models and analysts expectations. In the long-term, the Philippines Average Construction Cost is projected to trend around 13000.00 PHP/SQ.

What is the best place to retire in the Philippines? ›

Dumaguete won a similar award in 2019, as the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Retirement Authority awarded the city as the best place to retire in the Philippines.

Can a US citizen retire in the Philippines? ›

You can apply for a Philippines retirement visa under the SRRV program if: You are at least 50 years old and have a pension; or. You are at least 35 years old and make a deposit of at least $50,000. You have no criminal record.

How much does it cost to build a 4 bedroom house in the Philippines? ›

Residential Construction Costs (Pesos per Square Meter)
TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION4th QUARTER OF 20204th QUARTER OF 2019
RESIDENTIAL10,590.0011,872.00
Single House10,011.0010,021.00
Duplex/Quadruplex10,954.0012,071.00
Apartment/Accessoria9,889.009,237.00
2 more rows
10 Apr 2021

How much will it cost to build a 2 storey house in the Philippines? ›

If you have seen some of their celebrity house tours on the internet, you may have an idea of what elegantly finished houses are usually done in the Philippines. Theoretically, an elegant finished house in the Philippines would cost you around ₽3,300,000 to build your 120 m² two-storey house.

How much to build a small house in the Philippines? ›

The cost of building a house in the Philippines in 2021 ranges from PhP 15,000 to PhP 20,000 per square meter of the total floor area of the house. Take note that this figure does not include the cost of the perimeter fence with gate and landscaping as well as lighting fixtures and grills.

Where is the safest place in the Philippines? ›

10 Safest Cities in the Philippines
  • Baguio. ...
  • Dumaguete. ...
  • Iloilo. ...
  • Makati City. ...
  • La Union. ...
  • Palawan. ...
  • Tagaytay. Just a couple of hours away from Manilla, Tagaytay has the reputation as an amazing tourist locale – at a fraction of the cost. ...
  • Valenzuela City. Valenzuela City is a great place to go if you want to dive into local history.

Where do most foreigners live in Philippines? ›

Most expats in the Philippines live in the Metro Manila area, particularly in Makati City – home to many international corporations and the heart of the country's diplomatic community.

What is the cleanest city in the Philippines? ›

Real-time Philippines Cleanest city ranking
#cityUS AQI
1Meycauayan, Central Luzon0
2Makati, National Capital Region37
3Olongapo, Central Luzon57
4Balanga, Central Luzon59
6 more rows

How long can a US citizen stay in the Philippines 2022? ›

For all visas, visitors are allowed a maximum 59 days per stay (meaning if you have a multiple-entry visa, you will need to exit the and re-enter Philippines after 59 days in the country).

What happens if you overstay in Philippines? ›

You are considered to have overstayed if you have exceeded the maximum number of days your visa allows. In the worst-case scenario, offenders will be deported and never allowed back into the country again. The standard fine is P500 per month overstayed.

How long can a dual citizen stay in the Philippines? ›

For Filipino citizens travelling together with their foreigner spouse and/or children: Your foreigner spouse and/or child/ren are entitled to enter the Philippines visa-free and stay for a period of one (1) year counted from the date of arrival in the Philippines.

Is retiring in the Philippines a good idea? ›

Retiring in the Philippines can be a great escape when done right. Overall, you're going to notice goods and services are cheaper than they are in the U.S. You can also find affordable healthcare as long as you retire in a location close to hospitals. However, certain parts lack infrastructure and investment.

How much do meals cost in Philippines? ›

about 12 to 14 dollars. While meal costs in the Philippines differ, the average price of food per day in the Philippines is about 605 pesos (12 dollars). In the Philippines, an average dinner costs approximately 240 pesos per person while dining out. Breakfast is typically less expensive than lunch or dinner.

Which is the best island to live in the Philippines? ›

1. Boracay, Aklan. Boracay Island is hailed as having the best beach in the world across countless reader polls – this is the Philippines' most famous island for a reason. Famous though it may be, the caster-sugar beaches, crystal waters and vivid sunsets make it well worth a stop-off.

How much is the construction cost per square meter in the Philippines? ›

A low-cost or rough finish will cost about P15,000 to P20,000 per square meter. For a basic finish, get ready to shell out P20,000 to P25,000 per square meter. While elegant finish will have an average square meter cost of P40,000 to P60,000.

How much does it cost to build a house in the Philippines in US dollars? ›

How Much Does It Cost to Build A House In The Philippines? - YouTube

How much is per square meter in Philippines? ›

Residential constructions average cost per square meters Philippines Q1 2020-Q4 2021. Residential constructions in the Philippines cost an average of around 10.9 thousand Philippine pesos per square meters as of the fourth quarter of 2021.

What is the safest place in the Philippines from natural disasters? ›

Luckily Palawan, voted the most beautiful island in the world, is also the safest place in the Philippines from natural disasters. This island chain, which includes El Nido and Coron, is located in Western Philippines, away from volcanic activity and the high-risk tropical storm areas.

Is healthcare in the Philippines good? ›

In general, the healthcare system in the Philippines is of a high quality. Medical staff in the Philippines are highly qualified, though the facilities they work with are of a poorer quality than those in high-end US or European healthcare institutions.

Where do the rich live in the Philippines? ›

Makati City is the financial hub of the Philippines. Naturally, it is the richest city in the Philippines with a net worth of Php34. 461 billion.

Can I collect my social security in the Philippines? ›

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

Does Medicare Work in the Philippines? ›

Remember, you can have Medicare while you live abroad, but it will usually not cover the care you receive. Most people qualify for premium-free Part A, meaning you will pay nothing for coverage. If you must pay a premium for Part A, be aware of the high monthly cost for maintaining Part A coverage.

Can an American open a bank account in the Philippines? ›

The country hosts many global banks that also have branches in the U.S., making it easy to integrate your finances. To open a new bank account in the Philippines, you must be prepared to present identification in-person and have the proper visas.

How much is the building permit in the Philippines? ›

An estimated fee of Php 6, 000 or above will be the cost of your building permit fees as this will be based on the construction size of your building, municipality location, as well as the assessment plan.

How much does it cost to build a bahay kubo in the Philippines? ›

The cost to build a modern Bahay Kubo can vary depending on your location and the materials you choose. However, on average, it costs around $3,000-$4,000 to build a modern Bahay Kubo. Keep in mind that this price does not include the cost of the land.

Are glass walls cheaper than concrete Philippines? ›

Glass is more expensive than masonry wall, as such, the cost goes up when more windows are added to the building. The cost difference is further amplified if specialized glass such as tempered and laminated glass is used instead of an ordinary glass.

What is the best month to build a house in the Philippines? ›

January is the best time to build because that is far from the rainy season.

Is it cheaper to build a 1 or 2 story house? ›

Per square foot, a one-story house is more costly to build than a two-story home. There is a larger footprint, meaning more foundation building and more roofing materials.

How much is architect fee in the Philippines? ›

But how much is the architect fee in the Philippines? The typical percentage fee charged by an architect ranges from approximately 5% to around 12%.

How can I afford a house in the Philippines? ›

How much can you really afford to buy a home? The rule of thumb is to spend only 30% to 40% of your monthly salary on home loan repayments. For example, a 30-something with a monthly salary of ₱100,000 can afford to repay up to ₱30,000 to ₱40,000 per month in home loan repayments.

How much does it cost to renovate a house in the Philippines? ›

An average renovation project will cost you about P15,000 to P20,000 per square meter. It's called an average because many factors can drive this price up or down.
...
Sample breakdown.
Cost itemsSample Budget
Total project cost144,000720,000
Contractor (and/or Labor)57,600288,000
Estimated cost201,6001,008,000
4 more rows
12 Apr 2021

How long does it take to build a house in Philippines? ›

Complete construction (including finishings) of houses in the Philippines takes on average 4 to 6 months but you need about 6 weeks for blueprints and building permit.

What city has the highest crime rate in the Philippines? ›

Quezon City

What is the most peaceful province in the Philippines? ›

The province of Marinduque resided by its peace-loving people was ranked number 1 by the Philippine National Police and Philippine Security Forces as the 2013 Most Peaceful Province of the country due to its low crime rate statistics alternately ranking with the province of Batanes yearly.

What is the safest place in the Philippines from earthquake? ›

Palawan: An Earthquake-free Area in the Philippines

The province of Palawan is the safest place in the Philippines from earthquakes. Palawan has no fault lines and will most likely not be affected once “The Big One” hits the country.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in the Philippines? ›

Your own, personal, cost of living in this country depends on what kind of lifestyle you want to have, and what kind of a job you have. The least amount that a person can be comfortable with is 600$ or so, and for a couple 900$ will be sufficient. However, if you want a swanky lifestyle 1000$ to 1200$ is sufficient.

How much is rent in Philippines? ›

Summary of cost of living in Philippines
Food
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive areaPhp55,844
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in normal areaPhp32,505
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flatPhp5,640
54 more rows

How much do you need to retire in Philippines? ›

The Philippines has a generally low cost of living. International Living reports that you could comfortably live on $800 to $1200 a month, covering housing, utilities, food, healthcare and taxes. If you live on $800 a month, your $100,000 can spread out to about ten and a half years.

What is the poorest city in the Philippines? ›

Zamboanga del Norte - 50.3% Davao Oriental - 48% Ifugao - 47.5% Sarangani - 46.5%

What is the greenest city in the Philippines? ›

Puerto Princesa City

The city of Puerto Princesa is known to be the 'cleanest and greenest city' throughout the archipelago ever since it was officially declared as one in the year of 1994.

Can you live on 2000 a month in the Philippines? ›

Those numbers are as simple as I can put it. It's the 123 Rule. You either need $1,000 USD, $2,000 USD, or $3,000 USD per month to live in the Philippines.
...
Monthly Income Needed to Live in the Philippines? The 123 Rule.
LifestylePesosUSD
Live Comfortable Like an Expat108,0002,000
3 more rows
10 Jan 2019

What is the average salary in the Philippines? ›

The average salary in Philippines as of 2020 is PHP 15,200 or USD 308 for the non-agricultural sector.
...
The average salary in the Philippines.
RolesMonthly Salary (in PHP)Monthly Salary (in USD)
Security guardPHP 17,174$338
Construction workerPHP 18,824$370
TeachersPHP 18,998$373
BPO employeesPHP 25,519$500
4 more rows

How much do I need to retire in the Philippines? ›

International Living, a magazine that extensively covers the costs of residing in different countries, reports that most expats can live comfortably with $1,000 to $2,200 a month. That includes housing and going out to enjoy what the Philippines has to offer.

Is the Philippines cheap to live? ›

The country's cost of living index score estimates the Philippines is roughly 43% less expensive than the US. Compared to Western countries, the costs of living in the Philippines remain extremely low.

Can you live off $1000 a month in the Philippines? ›

Well, you can live in the Philippines on $1000 per month and here's how. The Philippines is one of the cheapest countries to retire to. It's also very affordable if you want to relocate to a warmer climate close to a beach and take your family and business with you.

How far does 100 dollars go in the Philippines? ›

In the Philippines, USD $100 Can Get You:

2-3 nights' stay in a three-star Cebu or Manila hotel. 1-3 one-way trips on a Philippines budget air carrier. 100-150 Filipino beers.

Can a US citizen retire in the Philippines? ›

You can apply for a Philippines retirement visa under the SRRV program if: You are at least 50 years old and have a pension; or. You are at least 35 years old and make a deposit of at least $50,000. You have no criminal record.

What is the salary in Philippines 2022? ›

In this range, the lowest earned salary is typically 11,300 PHP (223.15 USD) per month, and the highest earned average wage in the Philippines a month is about 199,000 PHP (2349.99 USD) .
...
Average Salary in Philippines 2022:
EXPERIENCEANNUAL SALARY
8-12 years879,000 PHP
12-16 years1,462,000 PHP
16-20 years1,672,000 PHP
More than 20 years1,676,560 PHP
3 more rows
5 Apr 2022

What salary is considered rich in Philippines? ›

To be considered part of the richest 0.1% in the country, a Filipino needs a net wealth of $210,000 (around P10. 2 million). This is significantly smaller compared with the $10-million (around P485-million) threshold in Singapore and $10.4 million (around P504 million) in Hong Kong.

What is the minimum wage in the Philippines 2022? ›

Minimum wages have been revised in IV-A - Calabarzon, the Philippines, effective from 16 July 2022. The minimum wages are increased for the following categories: For Agriculture - Non-Plantation, from PHP356. 00 to PHP401.

How long can a US citizen stay in the Philippines 2022? ›

For all visas, visitors are allowed a maximum 59 days per stay (meaning if you have a multiple-entry visa, you will need to exit the and re-enter Philippines after 59 days in the country).

Where in Philippines is it best to retire? ›

Dumaguete won a similar award in 2019, as the Department of Tourism and the Philippine Retirement Authority awarded the city as the best place to retire in the Philippines.

Can I collect my social security in the Philippines? ›

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

How much cash can I carry to Philippines? ›

A person may carry up to the amount of USD 10,000 (or equivalent in any other foreign currency), in cash or other monetary instruments, into and out of the Philippines.

Can a foreigner own a house in the Philippines? ›

Philippine real estate law does not allow outright ownership of real property by foreign nationals. Filipinos and former Filipino citizens and Philippine majority owned corporations are permitted to own land, buildings, condominiums and townhouses.

How much is a meal in Philippines? ›

about 12 to 14 dollars. While meal costs in the Philippines differ, the average price of food per day in the Philippines is about 605 pesos (12 dollars). In the Philippines, an average dinner costs approximately 240 pesos per person while dining out. Breakfast is typically less expensive than lunch or dinner.

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