SantiagovsManila
Overall
💰-12.7%
Santiago is 12.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-24.0%
Restaurants 24.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-5.5%
Food shopping 5.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Santiago, Chile and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Santiago is more affordable than Manila by approximately 12.7%. 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 Santiago are higher than in Manila by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Santiago's city center costs around CLP 500,000, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in Santiago is notably more expensive compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CLP 7,000 in Santiago versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in Santiago is more expensive, with monthly passes at CLP 33,000 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Purchasing power in Santiago is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Manila.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Santiago can expect to spend approximately CLP 286,600 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 CLP 1,003,100 monthly in Santiago 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 Manila to Santiago, 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 Santiago 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
Santiago
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santiago more expensive than Manila?
No, Santiago is approximately 12.7% cheaper than Manila. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Santiago compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 89% of your Manila salary when living in Santiago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $44,355 in Santiago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Santiago and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 32%, 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?
Santiago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Santiago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Santiago if you prioritize earning potential, or Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Santiago vs Manila?
In Santiago, a single person needs approximately CLP 636,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CLP 1,653,100. 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 Santiago and Manila in 2025 shows notable 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 Manila to maintain your lifestyle from Santiago
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