Manila vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Manila and Dhaka are two of the most densely populated megacities in Southeast and South Asia, respectively. While both offer a low cost of living compared to Western capitals, Dhaka is generally the more affordable of the two. Manila serves as a more Westernized service and BPO hub with higher infrastructure costs, whereas Dhaka is an industrial powerhouse where local goods and services remain remarkably inexpensive.
Is Manila more expensive than Dhaka?
In general, Manila is approximately 15% to 25% more expensive than Dhaka. While consumer prices including rent are higher in the Philippines' capital, the local purchasing power is also slightly higher in Manila. For an expat maintaining a middle-class lifestyle, a budget of $1,800 in Manila would provide a similar standard of living to approximately $1,400 in Dhaka. The primary drivers for the price gap are higher utility costs and more expensive real estate in Manila's primary business districts.
Rent and Real Estate: Manila vs Dhaka
Housing in Manila is significantly more expensive, particularly in central areas like Makati or BGC, where a modern one-bedroom apartment averages $650–$950 per month. In contrast, a similar high-end apartment in Dhaka’s upscale neighborhoods like Gulshan or Banani typically ranges from $450–$650. Outside the city centers, prices drop in both locations, but Dhaka remains the more budget-friendly option for renters and property buyers alike.
Food, Groceries, and Dining Out
Food costs are lower in Dhaka, specifically regarding local produce and street food. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Dhaka costs around $2.50, compared to $4.50 in Manila. Grocery staples such as rice, bread, and eggs are roughly 20% cheaper in Dhaka. However, Manila offers a much wider variety of international restaurant chains and Western imported goods, which come at a premium in both cities.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Both cities face extreme traffic congestion. Manila relies on a mix of MRT/LRT lines, jeepneys, and ride-hailing apps like Grab. Dhaka's transport is dominated by rickshaws, CNGs (auto-rickshaws), and a growing Metro Rail system. Public transport is cheaper in Dhaka, with a monthly pass costing around $10–$15 compared to $20–$30 in Manila. Fuel prices are generally higher in Manila due to its reliance on imported petroleum.
Lifestyle, Utilities, and Entertainment
The cost of lifestyle amenities reveals a stark difference in utility prices; Manila has some of the highest electricity rates in Asia, with monthly bills for a standard apartment often exceeding $120, while Dhaka averages closer to $50–$70. Cinema tickets, gym memberships, and leisure activities are also more affordable in Dhaka. However, Manila offers a more diverse nightlife and entertainment scene, which may justify the higher costs for some residents.
How to get from Manila to Dhaka
There is currently no direct flight route between Manila (MNL) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers typically opt for connecting flights through major Asian hubs such as Bangkok (BKK), Singapore (SIN), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL). The total travel time usually ranges between 9 to 13 hours depending on the layover duration.
The Verdict: Manila or Dhaka?
The choice between the two depends on lifestyle preferences. Dhaka is the clear winner for budget-conscious individuals or those working in the NGO and textile sectors. Manila is better suited for digital nomads, expats in the service industry, and families who prefer a more Westernized retail environment, better access to international schools, and a wider variety of leisure activities despite the higher monthly expenses.
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