HelsinkivsManila
Overall
💰-36.0%
Helsinki is 36.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-37.8%
Housing is 37.8% lower
Dining
🍽️-52.5%
Restaurants 52.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-25.7%
Food shopping 25.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Helsinki, Finland and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Helsinki is more affordable than Manila by approximately 36.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Helsinki are higher than in Manila by 61%. A one-bedroom apartment in Helsinki's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Helsinki is notably more expensive compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €12 in Helsinki versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Helsinki is more affordable, with monthly passes at €60 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Purchasing power in Helsinki is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Manila.
Grocery shopping in Helsinki is more expensive by approximately 35%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Helsinki can expect to spend approximately €422 per month (excluding rent), while in Manila, the same lifestyle would cost around ₱14,510. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,478 monthly in Helsinki versus ₱50,785 in Manila. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Manila to Helsinki, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Helsinki to Manila requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Helsinki
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Helsinki more expensive than Manila?
No, Helsinki is approximately 36.0% cheaper than Manila. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Helsinki compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 74% of your Manila salary when living in Helsinki. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $36,765 in Helsinki for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Helsinki and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 111%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Helsinki offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Helsinki provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Helsinki if you prioritize earning potential, or Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Helsinki vs Manila?
In Helsinki, a single person needs approximately €1,272 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,978. In Manila, these figures are ₱34,510 for singles and ₱95,785 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Helsinki and Manila in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Helsinki
Calculate Salary Equivalence