ManilavsMontreal
Overall
💰+35.4%
Manila is 35.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+42.9%
Housing is 42.9% higher
Dining
🍽️+78.9%
Restaurants 78.9% pricier
Groceries
🛒+44.2%
Food shopping 44.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Montreal, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more expensive than Montreal by approximately 35.4%. 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 Montreal by 30%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Montreal is approximately CA$1,500.
Dining out in Manila offers significant savings compared to Montreal. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus CA$18 in Montreal.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to CA$94 in Montreal.
Purchasing power in Montreal is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Manila.
Grocery shopping in Manila is more affordable by approximately 31%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower 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 Montreal, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$570. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus CA$1,994 in Montreal. 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 Montreal, 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 Montreal 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
Montreal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Montreal?
Yes, Manila is approximately 35.4% more expensive than Montreal overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Montreal?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Montreal salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Montreal, you'd need about $67,708 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Montreal?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 44%, 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?
Montreal offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Montreal provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Montreal for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Montreal?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Montreal, these figures are CA$1,670 for singles and CA$3,894 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Montreal 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 Montreal to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
Calculate Salary Equivalence