ManilavsCape Town
Overall
💰+4.2%
Manila is 4.2%more expensive
Rent
🏠+25.0%
Housing is 25.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+31.6%
Restaurants 31.6% pricier
Groceries
🛒-13.5%
Food shopping 13.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Cape Town, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more expensive than Cape Town by approximately 4.2%. 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 Manila are lower than in Cape Town by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Cape Town is approximately ZAR 12,000.
Dining out in Manila offers significant savings compared to Cape Town. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus ZAR 150 in Cape Town.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to ZAR 800 in Cape Town.
Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Manila.
Grocery shopping in Manila is more expensive by approximately 16%. 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 Manila can expect to spend approximately ₱14,510 per month (excluding rent), while in Cape Town, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,890. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus ZAR 20,615 in Cape Town. 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 Cape Town, 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 Cape Town 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
Manila
Cape Town
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Cape Town?
The cost of living in Manila and Cape Town is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Cape Town?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Cape Town salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Cape Town, you'd need about $52,083 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Cape Town?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 24%, 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?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Cape Town for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Cape Town?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Cape Town, these figures are ZAR 13,890 for singles and ZAR 38,615 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Cape Town in 2025 shows moderate 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 Cape Town to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
Calculate Salary Equivalence