Manila vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.