ManilavsTaipei
Overall
💰+35.4%
Manila is 35.4%more expensive
Rent
🏠+42.9%
Housing is 42.9% higher
Dining
🍽️+44.7%
Restaurants 44.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+44.2%
Food shopping 44.2% more
Comparing the cost of living between Manila, Philippines and Taipei, Taiwan reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Manila is more expensive than Taipei 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 Taipei by 30%. A one-bedroom apartment in Manila's city center costs around ₱35,000, while the same in Taipei is approximately NT$25,000.
Dining out in Manila offers significant savings compared to Taipei. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₱200 in Manila versus NT$120 in Taipei.
Public transportation in Manila is more affordable, with monthly passes at ₱1,000 compared to NT$1,280 in Taipei.
Purchasing power in Taipei 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 Taipei, the same lifestyle would cost around NT$9,880. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₱50,785 monthly in Manila versus NT$34,580 in Taipei. 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 Taipei, 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 Taipei 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
Taipei
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manila more expensive than Taipei?
Yes, Manila is approximately 35.4% more expensive than Taipei overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Manila compared to Taipei?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Taipei salary when living in Manila. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Taipei, you'd need about $67,708 in Manila for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Manila and Taipei?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 31%, 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?
Taipei offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Taipei provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Manila if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Taipei for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Manila vs Taipei?
In Manila, a single person needs approximately ₱34,510 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₱95,785. In Taipei, these figures are NT$24,880 for singles and NT$64,580 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Manila and Taipei 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 Taipei to maintain your lifestyle from Manila
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