Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is a vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and dynamic culture. As a gateway to the rest of the Philippines, it offers an urban lifestyle with a rich history, delicious food, and an active social scene. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the cost of living for digital nomads in Manila.
1. Accommodation Costs in Manila
Manila offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget apartments to upscale condos in prime locations.
- Co-Living Spaces: $250–$500/month
- Studio Apartments: $400–$800/month
- Mid-Range Apartments: $900–$1,500/month
- Luxury Apartments: $2,000–$3,500/month
Popular Areas for Digital Nomads:
- Makati: The financial district, known for coworking spaces and nightlife.
- Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Modern and trendy, with excellent amenities.
- Quezon City: More budget-friendly, with a growing creative scene.
Pro Tip: Use platforms like Rentpad or Lamudi for finding rentals, and consider staying in areas close to coworking spaces to save time.
2. Food and Dining
Manila is a foodie’s paradise, offering everything from affordable street food to upscale dining experiences.
- Street Food: $1–$3 per meal (e.g., balut, isaw, taho)
- Local Restaurants: $3–$8 per meal
- Western Restaurants: $10–$25 per meal
- Groceries for a Month: $200–$400
Must-Try Foods: Adobo, sinigang, lechon kawali, and halo-halo for dessert.
Pro Tip: Visit Mercato Centrale or Legazpi Sunday Market for unique food experiences.
3. Transportation
Manila’s traffic is infamous, but there are affordable and convenient ways to get around.
- Jeepneys: $0.20–$0.50 per ride
- MRT/LRT Trains: $0.40–$1 per ride
- Ride-Hailing (Grab): $3–$10 per trip
- Scooter Rentals: $50–$100/month
- Car Rentals: $300–$500/month
Pro Tip: Use Grab for convenience, and the MRT/LRT during non-peak hours to avoid traffic jams.
4. Co-Working Spaces and Internet
Manila is a hub for coworking spaces with reliable internet connectivity.
- Coworking Memberships: $150–$300/month
- Day Pass: $15–$25/day
- Home Internet: $30–$50/month
Top Co-Working Spaces:
Pro Tip: BGC and Makati have the most coworking options and high-speed internet.
5. Entertainment and Lifestyle
Manila’s rich culture and lively entertainment options ensure there’s always something to do.
- Fitness Memberships: $30–$80/month
- Cultural Sites: $1–$5 (e.g., Intramuros, Rizal Park)
- Shopping Malls: Free entry, but dining/shopping costs vary
- Nightlife: Drinks at bars start at $3–$8
- Weekend Getaways: $20–$100 (e.g., Tagaytay, Batangas beaches)
Must-Do Activities:
- Explore the historic walled city of Intramuros.
- Visit the National Museum of the Philippines.
- Take a food crawl in Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown.
6. Visa and Other Expenses
The Philippines has flexible visa policies, making it easy for digital nomads to stay for longer durations.
- Tourist Visa: $30–$60 (valid for 30 days, extendable)
- Long-Stay Visa: $150–$300
- Health Insurance: $30–$60/month
- Miscellaneous Expenses: $50–$150/month
Pro Tip: For long stays, check the Bureau of Immigration Philippines for visa extensions or the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV).
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Manila
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $400–$1,500 |
| Food and Dining | $200–$500 |
| Transportation | $50–$150 |
| Co-Working/Internet | $150–$350 |
| Entertainment/Lifestyle | $100–$300 |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$150 |
| Total | $950–$2,950 |
Why Manila is a Great Choice for Digital Nomads
Manila’s dynamic energy, vibrant social scene, and central location make it a compelling choice for digital nomads. Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, enjoying world-class shopping malls, or networking at coworking spaces, Manila offers a unique blend of work and play.
Want to see the cost of living in other cities in the Philippines? Go back to our guide to being a digital nomad in the Philippines and see the full list.
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