ManilavsJohannesburg
Overall
💰0.0%
Manila is 0.0%same cost
Rent
🏠+14.3%
Housing is 14.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+26.3%
Restaurants 26.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒-19.2%
Food shopping 19.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is similarly priced than Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZAR 10,000.
Dining out in Manila offers significant savings compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus ZAR 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to ZAR 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Johannesburg 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 24%. 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 Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus ZAR 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg to Manila, 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 Manila to Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Johannesburg?
The cost of living in Manila and Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Johannesburg salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $50,000 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 24%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Johannesburg offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Johannesburg provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Johannesburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Johannesburg?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Johannesburg, these figures are ZAR 12,314 for singles and ZAR 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
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