Data last updated: August 2026

Raleigh, NCMakati, Philippines

You would need around 62.3% less money in Makati, Philippines to maintain the same standard of living you have in Raleigh, NC.

Overall Cost of Living

62.3%

Makati, Philippines is cheaper than Raleigh, NC

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A1,698 USD
City B752 USD
Difference-55.7%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A295 USD
City B72 USD
Difference-75.6%

Average Net Salary

City A4,354 USD
City B702 USD
Difference-83.9%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Raleigh, NC to Makati, Philippines? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Makati, Philippines is 62.3% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Makati, Philippines's center costs around 752 USD, which is a staggering 55.7% less than in Raleigh, NC. 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 Raleigh, NC and Makati, 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 Makati, Philippines to maintain your current lifestyle in Raleigh, NC.

USD

You need in Makati, Philippines

1,642 USD

Geo-Arbitrage FIRE

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

By moving from Raleigh, NC to Makati, Philippines and investing the 62% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 9.3 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

Instantly adapt your Raleigh, NC budget to local Makati, Philippines prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.

Housing752 USD
Groceries72 USD
Utilities & Internet35 USD

Investment Planner

You save 946 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Makati, Philippines.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~158,928 USD in 10 years.