Data last updated: August 2026

Manila, PhilippinesDavao, Philippines

You would need around 45.2% less money in Davao, Philippines to maintain the same standard of living you have in Manila, Philippines.

Overall Cost of Living

45.2%

Davao, Philippines is cheaper than Manila, Philippines

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A565 USD
City B284 USD
Difference-49.7%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A67 USD
City B61 USD
Difference-9.0%

Average Net Salary

City A502 USD
City B219 USD
Difference-56.4%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Manila, Philippines to Davao, Philippines? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Davao, Philippines is 45.2% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Davao, Philippines's center costs around 284 USD, which is a staggering 49.7% less than in Manila, Philippines. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.

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Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team

Our cost of living data for Manila, Philippines and Davao, Philippines is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.

Read more about our team →

Salary Comparator

Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Davao, Philippines to maintain your current lifestyle in Manila, Philippines.

USD

You need in Davao, Philippines

275 USD

Geo-Arbitrage FIRE

Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.

By moving from Manila, Philippines to Davao, Philippines and investing the 45% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 6.8 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

Instantly adapt your Manila, Philippines budget to local Davao, Philippines prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.

Housing284 USD
Groceries61 USD
Utilities & Internet35 USD

Investment Planner

You save 281 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Davao, Philippines.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~47,208 USD in 10 years.