ManilavsLima
Overall
💰-12.5%
Manila is 12.5%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-7.9%
Restaurants 7.9% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-13.5%
Food shopping 13.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more affordable than Lima by approximately 12.5%. 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 similar than in Lima. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Lima is approximately PEN 2,000.
Dining out in Manila costs about the same compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus PEN 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to PEN 100 in Lima.
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 Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PEN 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus PEN 3,035 in Lima. 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 Lima 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 Lima 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
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Lima?
No, Manila is approximately 12.5% cheaper than Lima. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 89% of your Lima salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $44,444 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 16%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Lima offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Manila provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Lima for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Lima?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Lima, these figures are PEN 2,067 for singles and PEN 5,235 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Lima in 2025 shows notable 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 Lima to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
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