ManilavsSão Paulo
Overall
💰0.0%
Manila is 0.0%same cost
Rent
🏠+7.1%
Housing is 7.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+5.3%
Restaurants 5.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒-13.5%
Food shopping 13.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is similarly priced than São Paulo. 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 São Paulo by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.
Dining out in Manila costs about the same compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus R$30 in São Paulo.
Public transportation in Manila is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.
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 São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. 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 São Paulo 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 São Paulo 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
São Paulo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than São Paulo?
The cost of living in Manila and São Paulo 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 São Paulo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your São Paulo salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $50,000 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and São Paulo?
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?
São Paulo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or São Paulo for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs São Paulo?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and São Paulo 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 São Paulo to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
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