Like anywhere, the cost of living in the Philippines depends a lot on the lifestyle you choose. But you can live well on a budget. If you live like the locals, shop where they shop, and eat where they eat. You can live on a budget of over $460.86 a month, even close to some big cities and famous beaches.
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Of course, the bigger the budget, the more luxurious the lifestyle. A couple can live like royalty anywhere in the Philippines for $1,590.29 a month. With that payment, you can maintain the finer things in life: massage, maid, state club participation, travel.
Cost of living
Since lease will be your serious liability, it’s vital to take the time to find the right property. The best and cheapest way to find a place is not through a real estate agent. But through word of mouth. If city life is your thing, then you might consider Cebu City, one of the largest cities in the Philippines. With all the shops, restaurants, and bars you could want. As a bonus, the beach is only a 30-minute drive away. Rents are higher in the city. But you can get a furnished one-bedroom apartment with city and ocean views for less than $322.95.
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Move a little outside the city and the cost will be reduced. A three-bedroom townhouse in Banilad, a trendy neighborhood about 4 miles from downtown Cebu, is renting for $848.62 a month. In Liloan, about 10 miles from the city, you can rent a house for $257.16 a month.
With a higher generous allocation, you can look at your money’s worth with a three-bedroom waterfront residence close to luxuries. A swimming pool, and a garage for $514.32 per month.
Also Read: Southeast Asia
Where to Stay
No matter where you choose to live in the Philippines, you don’t have to buy a vehicle. Unless, of course, you want to. We know the Philippines for its lavish public transportation options. They are so cheap that many people forgo big purchases. A local tuk-tuk or motorbike transportation will bring in a few cents, a long trip in a jeepney won’t be over. If you prefer to spend the money, you can get a new scooter for as low as $1198.36. Or a used motorcycle for around $600.04.
For food, your costs will depend on whether you buy brands imported from your home country. Or switch to cheaper local brands. The most cost-effective way to shop is at your local daily market. Which is stocked with fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. Not only is it the cheapest option, but it’s also the freshest. Chances are, that delicious and juicy pineapple grown on a local farm. A dozen eggs cost $1.78, a kilo of beef was $5.47, two pounds of tomatoes were $1.46. And a loaf of bread cost the same.
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Eating out won’t break the bank either. You’ll spend less on a meal at a local restaurant than on a five-minute taxi ride in the US. A plate of roast meat, rice, and beer will set you back $5.80. A cappuccino costs about $2.61 and a three-course meal for two is $14.28.
The dollar stretches farther here, leaving more room in any budget for fun adventures and a little extravagance, like retirement.
Hotels Accommodation
The Philippines offers a wide range of hotels and accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:
Luxury hotels: For those seeking luxury, the Philippines have a range of 5-star hotels. Such as Shangri-La at the Fort in Manila, Crimson Resort and Spa in Mactan Island, Cebu, and Amanpulo in Palawan.
Boutique hotels: If you’re looking for something more intimate and unique, there are many boutique hotels in the Philippines. Examples include The Henry Hotel in Manila, Azumi Boutique Hotel in Alabang, and The Lind Boracay in Boracay Island. Video
Budget accommodations: For those on a budget, there are many guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels across the country. Examples include Lub d Philippines Makati in Manila, Z Hostel in Makati, and Dormitels.ph in Cebu City. Video
Beach resorts: I knew the Philippines for its beautiful beaches, and there are many beach resorts across the country. Examples include El Nido Resorts in Palawan, The Bellevue Resort in Bohol. And Henann Regency Resort and Spa in Boracay Island. Video
No matter what your budget or preferences, you’re sure to find suitable accommodation in the Philippines.
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