Study in the Philippines: Housing & Living Costs

Compared to many other countries, the Philippines has an affordable cost of living for international students. Manila, compared to the likes of London, New York or Boston, is extremely affordable. As many international students find themselves in the capital, these costs will reflect those of Manila. 

Do note: the Philippine Peso can fluctuate - although nowhere near as wildly as the Argentine Peso or the Turkish Lira - so the US Dollar conversions here may vary slightly. 

Some average monthly living costs in Manila are (in PHP and USD):

• Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): 33,000PHP ($680)
• Utilities (monthly average): 5900PHP ($120)
• Monthly public transport pass: 670PHP ($15)
• Meal (inexpensive restaurant): 150PHP ($3)
• Coffee: 130PHP ($2.70)
• Milk (1 liter): 90PHP ($1.90)
• Vegetables (1kg): 90PHP ($1.90)
• Eggs (dozen): 95PHP ($2)
• Water (1.5 liter): 35PHP ($75) *
• Chicken (1kg): 200PHP ($4.10)
• Wine (bottle): 450PHP ($9.30)
• Bread (loaf): 60PHP ($1.25)

*This reflects the cost of bottled water. You’ll need to factor this in as it’s not safe to drink the tap water in the Philippines.

The average cost of living for one person in Manila is about 28,200PHP ($580) per month, excluding rent. As in many other parts of the world, rent is normally counted as a separate cost in the Philippines. 

Costs outside of Manila will generally be lower. That being said, Quezon City - the largest city - is, on some fronts, more expensive. 

To keep rent costs down, you can live in residences - known as dorms or corridors in North America and Europe. Rent can be up to only half that of private rooms. However, until you have your SSP in hand, you’ll need to find a small, cheap room or a hostel or hotel where you can stay.

Once you have your SSP, you can access state healthcare in the Philippines. The medical staff are highly trained, but the facilities can lack, especially outside of major cities. As such, many international students choose to take out private health insurance. This can be done relatively affordably once you’ve arrived in the Philippines. As English is one of the national languages, providers will easily be able to help you navigate the healthcare system.