ManilavsRio de Janeiro
Overall
💰-6.3%
Manila is 6.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-19.2%
Food shopping 19.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more affordable than Rio de Janeiro by approximately 6.3%. 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 Rio de Janeiro. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Rio de Janeiro is approximately R$2,500.
Dining out in Manila costs about the same compared to Rio de Janeiro. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus R$30 in Rio de Janeiro.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to R$190 in Rio de Janeiro.
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 Rio de Janeiro, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,114. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus R$3,899 in Rio de Janeiro. 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 Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro 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
Rio de Janeiro
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Rio de Janeiro?
No, Manila is approximately 6.3% cheaper than Rio de Janeiro. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Rio de Janeiro?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Rio de Janeiro salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Rio de Janeiro, you'd need about $47,059 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Rio de Janeiro?
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?
Manila 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 earning potential, or Rio de Janeiro for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Rio de Janeiro?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Rio de Janeiro, these figures are R$2,714 for singles and R$6,899 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
Calculate Salary Equivalence