São PaulovsManila
Overall
💰0.0%
São Paulo is 0.0%same cost
Rent
🏠-6.7%
Housing is 6.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-5.0%
Restaurants 5.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+15.6%
Food shopping 15.6% more
Comparing the cost of living between São Paulo, Brazil and Manila, Philippines reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that São Paulo is similarly priced than Manila. 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 São Paulo are higher than in Manila by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in São Paulo's city center costs around R$2,800, while the same in Manila is approximately ₱35,000.
Dining out in São Paulo costs about the same compared to Manila. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in São Paulo versus ₱200 in Manila.
Public transportation in São Paulo is more affordable, with monthly passes at R$230 compared to ₱1,000 in Manila.
Grocery shopping in São Paulo is more affordable by approximately 13%. 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 São Paulo can expect to spend approximately R$1,250 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$4,375 monthly in São Paulo 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 São Paulo, 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 São Paulo 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
São Paulo
Manila
Frequently Asked Questions
Is São Paulo more expensive than Manila?
The cost of living in São Paulo and Manila is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in São Paulo compared to Manila?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Manila salary when living in São Paulo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Manila, you'd need about $50,000 in São Paulo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between São Paulo and Manila?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 13%, 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 São Paulo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Manila for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for São Paulo vs Manila?
In São Paulo, a single person needs approximately R$3,050 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about R$7,875. 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 São Paulo 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 São Paulo
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