Cost of Living in the Philippines for Expats: A 2025 Update

The Philippines remains one of the most affordable countries for expats

Thinking about moving to the Philippines in 2025? Whether you’re a retiree on the SRRV visa, a professional working on a 9G visa, or a digital nomad exploring Southeast Asia, one of the biggest questions you’ll have is: How much does it cost to live in the Philippines?

The good news is that the Philippines remains one of the most affordable countries for expats, offering a much lower cost of living compared to the US, Europe or Australia—without sacrificing lifestyle, tropical weather, and access to modern conveniences.

In this 2025 update, we’ll break down the typical monthly expenses for foreigners in the Philippines, from housing and food to healthcare and entertainment.

Housing & Accommodation

• Metro Manila (Makati, BGC, Ortigas): ₱35,000–₱60,000 per month for a 1-bedroom condo in central business districts.
• Cebu & Davao: ₱20,000–₱45,000 per month for a modern condo or house rental.
• Bacolod & Iloilo: ₱18,000–₱35,000 per month for a modern condo or house rental.
• Tourist Islands: ₱15,000–₱40,000 per month in vacation hotspots like Boracay, Siargao, Siquijor, Panglao and El Nido, with accommodations varying from basic to luxurious.
• Smaller Cities/Provinces: ₱12,000–₱20,000 per month for apartments or houses, often with more space, Dumaguete city is a great example of this with a thriving expat community.

Many expats choose Cebu, Bacolod or Davao for a balance of city amenities and overall affordability and comfort.

Utilities & Internet

• Electricity (with aircon use): ₱5,000–₱8,000 per month.
• Water: ₱300–₱500 per month.
• High-speed internet (fiber): ₱1,200–₱2,000 per month.
• Mobile phone plans: ₱500–₱1,000 per month.

Food & Groceries

• Local markets: ₱3,000–₱6,000 per month if cooking at home.
• Supermarkets (imported goods): ₱8,000–₱15,000 per month.
• Eating out: ₱150–₱250 for local meals, ₱400–₱800 at mid-range restaurants, ₱1,000+ for fine dining.

A good mix of local and Western dining helps to keep costs flexible.

Transportation

• Grab (ride-hailing): ₱150–₱400 per trip within cities.
• Jeepneys & buses: ₱15–₱50 per ride.
• Car ownership: ₱10,000–₱15,000 per month (fuel, insurance, parking, maintenance).

Healthcare & Insurance

• Local doctor’s visit: ₱500–₱1,500.
• Private hospital consultation: ₱1,500–₱3,000.
• Health insurance: ₱3,000–₱7,500 per month depending on age and coverage.

Many expats opt for private healthcare in Manila, Cebu, or Davao for high standards at lower costs compared to Western countries.

Entertainment & Lifestyle

• Gym membership: ₱1,500–₱3,000 per month.
• Cinema: ₱300–₱500 per ticket.
• Nightlife/expat bars: ₱150–₱200 for local beer, ₱300–₱400 for cocktails.
• Weekend trips (Boracay, Bohol, Palawan): ₱5,000–₱15,000 depending on flights and hotels.

Average Monthly Budget for Expats in 2025

• Budget lifestyle (provinces, simple living): ₱40,000–₱50,000 ($700–900).
• Comfortable lifestyle (Cebu, Bacolod, city condos): ₱60,000–₱90,000 ($1,000–1,600).
• Luxury lifestyle (Manila, top condos, frequent dining out): ₱110,000+ ($2,000+).

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the cost of living in the Philippines remains highly attractive for expats. While inflation and demand in urban areas have raised prices slightly, it’s still possible to live well on a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.

Whether you’re retiring with an SRRV or 13A marriage visa, working on a 9G visa, or starting a business, the Philippines offers flexibility to live modestly or luxuriously depending on your budget.

At C&G, we help expats with visas, business registration, and relocation support—so you can focus on enjoying your new life in the Philippines without stress. Thinking of moving? Contact us today to make the Philippines easy for you!