Interactive Simulator

💰 Cost of Living
Simulator

Calculate your personalized budget for living in the Philippines. Compare 8 major cities and regions with updated 2026-2027 data.

🎯 Interactive Calculator

Adjust the sliders according to your needs and instantly compare your living budget across different Philippine cities.

Dynamic capital, economic and cultural hub

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Cost index: 100/100

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Adjust your needs

$643
$321
$107
$161
$214
$86
$428
Monthly Total
$0
/month
Yearly Total
$0
/year

Expense categories

📊 Regional Comparison

Quick overview of average prices in major regions

CategoryManila 🏙️Cebu 🌴Davao 🌄Provincial 🌾
1-bedroom apt (city center)$500-800$350-600$300-500$200-400
Local restaurant meal$3-5$2-4$2-4$1.5-3
Monthly transport$50-100$40-80$30-70$20-50
Fiber internet (monthly)$25-40$20-35$20-30$15-25
Medical consultation$20-50$15-40$15-35$10-25

🏙️ Tips by City

Key points to optimize your budget in each region

🏙️

Manila

Metro Manila

Index: 100

Dynamic capital, economic and cultural hub

#1 economic hub of the Philippines
Numerous professional opportunities
Intense and cosmopolitan urban life
🌴

Cebu

Central Visayas

Index: 85

Second city, nearby beaches and relaxed atmosphere

Excellent quality of life
Easy access to beaches and islands
15-20% cheaper than Manila
🌄

Davao

Mindanao

Index: 75

Safest city, lush nature and peaceful life

Safest city in the Philippines
25% cheaper than Manila
Exceptional nature nearby
⛰️

Baguio

Cordillera

Index: 80

Mountain city, cool climate year-round

Cool climate 15-25°C year-round
Summer capital of the Philippines
Unique Cordillera culture

⚠️ Important Points

  • 2024-2025 data: Prices are average estimates and may vary
  • Average inflation: ~3-4% per year, cost of living is rising moderately
  • Local variations: Prices vary significantly by neighborhood
  • Tourist season: Prices increase during high season (December-May)
  • Exchange rate: Consider USD/PHP fluctuations (currently ~56 PHP per USD)
  • Setup budget: Plan for 3-6 months of initial setup budget
  • Visa fees: Not included in these calculations, add $200-500/year depending on type
  • Health insurance: Essential! Budget $50-200/month depending on your age

💡 Money-Saving Tips

🏠 Housing

  • Negotiate annual contracts (-10 to -20%)
  • Avoid ultra-touristy areas
  • Share accommodation to reduce costs

🍲 Food

  • Cook local (rice, fish, vegetables)
  • Local markets vs supermarkets (-40%)
  • Excellent and cheap street food

🚗 Transport

  • Jeepneys and tricycles ultra-cheap
  • Scooter = freedom + savings
  • Grab promos during off-peak

Budget Calculated? Continue Your Preparation!

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