MumbaivsManila
Overall
💰+37.1%
Mumbai is 37.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+12.0%
Housing is 12.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+26.7%
Restaurants 26.7% pricier
Groceries
🛒+48.6%
Food shopping 48.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mumbai, India and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mumbai is more expensive than Manila by approximately 37.1%. 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 Mumbai are lower than in Manila by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mumbai's city center costs around ₹35,000, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Mumbai offers significant savings compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ₹200 in Mumbai versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Mumbai is more expensive, with monthly passes at ₹1,500 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Grocery shopping in Mumbai is more affordable by approximately 33%. 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 Mumbai can expect to spend approximately ₹12,260 per month (excluding rent), while in Manila, the same lifestyle would cost around ₱14,510. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ₹42,910 monthly in Mumbai versus ₱50,785 in Manila. 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 Mumbai 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 Mumbai 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
Mumbai
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mumbai more expensive than Manila?
Yes, Mumbai is approximately 37.1% more expensive than Manila overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mumbai compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.4x of your Manila salary when living in Mumbai. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $68,571 in Mumbai for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mumbai and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 33%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Mumbai 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 Mumbai if you prioritize earning potential, or Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mumbai vs Manila?
In Mumbai, a single person needs approximately ₹32,260 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ₹92,910. In Manila, these figures are ₱34,510 for singles and ₱95,785 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mumbai and Manila 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 Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Mumbai
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