ManilavsSeoul
Overall
💰+56.3%
Manila is 56.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+78.6%
Housing is 78.6% higher
Dining
🍽️+44.7%
Restaurants 44.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+73.1%
Food shopping 73.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Seoul, South Korea reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more expensive than Seoul by approximately 56.3%. 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 lower than in Seoul by 44%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Seoul is approximately ₩1,200,000.
Dining out in Manila offers significant savings compared to Seoul. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus ₩8,000 in Seoul.
Public transportation in Manila is more affordable, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to ₩55,000 in Seoul.
Purchasing power in Seoul 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 42%. 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 Seoul, the same lifestyle would cost around ₩528,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus ₩1,848,000 in Seoul. 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 Seoul, 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 Seoul 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
Seoul
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Seoul?
Yes, Manila is approximately 56.3% more expensive than Seoul overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Seoul?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.6x of your Seoul salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Seoul, you'd need about $78,125 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Seoul?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 44%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seoul offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seoul provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Seoul for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Seoul?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Seoul, these figures are ₩1,228,000 for singles and ₩3,648,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Seoul 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Seoul to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
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