Rio de JaneirovsManila
Overall
💰+6.7%
Rio de Janeiro is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒+23.8%
Food shopping 23.8% more
Comparing the cost of living between Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Rio de Janeiro is more expensive than Manila by approximately 6.7%. 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 Rio de Janeiro are similar than in Manila. A one-bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro's city center costs around R$2,500, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Rio de Janeiro costs about the same compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in Rio de Janeiro versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Rio de Janeiro is more affordable, with monthly passes at R$190 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Grocery shopping in Rio de Janeiro is more affordable by approximately 19%. 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 Rio de Janeiro can expect to spend approximately R$1,114 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 R$3,899 monthly in Rio de Janeiro 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 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
Rio de Janeiro
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rio de Janeiro more expensive than Manila?
Yes, Rio de Janeiro is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Manila overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Rio de Janeiro compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Manila salary when living in Rio de Janeiro. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $53,333 in Rio de Janeiro for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Rio de Janeiro and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 19%, 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 Rio de Janeiro if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Manila for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Rio de Janeiro vs Manila?
In Rio de Janeiro, a single person needs approximately R$2,714 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about R$6,899. 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 Rio de Janeiro and Manila 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 Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Rio de Janeiro
Calculate Salary Equivalence