The cost of living in the Philippines is low compared to other major Southeast Asian countries. According to Mercer’s Cost of Living Survey for 2017, Manila was ranked at 95 out of the 209 cities surveyed. This placed Manila as having a cost of living lower than Singapore and Bangkok, but higher than Hanoi.
Within the Philippines, the cost of living varies depending on where one lives. Overall, Manila is the most expensive area, with Cebu following closely behind. The cost of living on some of the outlying islands and in rural provincial areas is much lower.
Cost of accommodation in the Philippines.
Accommodation will likely be an expats most significant monthly expense in the Philippines. Rental rates vary depending on the location and whether a home is furnished or unfurnished, but generally the closer to tourist areas and the city center one goes, the more one will pay. Many landlords prefer to rent to foreigners as they can charge a higher price, so expats are not likely to struggle to find suitable accommodation. Those moving to the Philippines as part of an international relocation package often have this expense covered by their company, so it is worth considering during contract negotiations.
Utilities such as water and electricity are not always included in the rental and are additional costs that tenants will have to pay. Other monthly costs to take into consideration include Internet, telephone line, cable television and air conditioning maintenance.
It’s worth noting that electricity is very expensive in the Philippines. Expats need to take this into account as extreme temperatures during the hot and humid summer months may require the use of air conditioning, which will increase costs tremendously. Many homes do not have central air conditioning and expats may have to pay to have this installed.
Another luxury that expats may find they can afford in the Philippines is household help such as nannies, domestic cleaners, drivers and gardeners.
Cost of food in the Philippines.
The cost of food in the Philippines is lower than what many Westerners may be used to. If choosing to buy local produce, expats will find that these are relatively cheap and readily available at local markets and street vendors. However, imported Western foods in supermarkets are expensive.
Food in restaurants is affordable, and many expats will find that they can eat out on a regular basis. Cigarettes and alcohol are also relatively cheap compared to elsewhere.
Cost of clothing and household goods in the Philippines.
Clothing costs are generally quite reasonable in the Philippines. However, imported goods are expensive, particularly electronics, due to high import duties.
Cost of schooling and education in the Philippines.
Those moving to the Philippines with children will find that the cost of schooling and education will likely be their second biggest expense after accommodation. The majority of expats in the Philippines send their children to international schools, which come at a hefty price.
Cost of transport in the Philippines.
Public transport in the Philippines is relatively cheap. While using a taxi on a regular basis can become expensive, local jeepney’s and buses offer more inexpensive options.
Expats looking to buy a car in the Philippines will find that they are much more expensive than what they may expect back home. This is largely due to high import duties. Many expats employ a driver for getting around; this is something that companies often provide for their senior executives, and it’s worth considering during contract negotiations for a posting to the Philippines.