Warsaw vs Manila: Cost of Living Comparison

Rent in Warsaw has risen sharply recently, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging $1,000–$1,200 USD. In contrast, a similar apartment in a prime Manila area like Makati or BGC can range from $700 to $900 USD, though prices drop drastically to $400 USD outside these hubs. When it comes to buying property, Warsaw's price per square meter is generally higher ($4,500+ USD) compared to Manila's central districts ($3,500+ USD). However, Manila's luxury condo market is highly competitive and can occasionally exceed Warsaw's prices for top-tier amenities.

The food dynamic is a tale of two markets. For groceries, Warsaw is surprisingly affordable; items like milk, bread, and local produce are often 20% cheaper than in Manila due to Poland's robust agricultural sector. Conversely, Manila wins on dining out. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Manila costs around $4–$6 USD, while the same in Warsaw costs roughly $10–$12 USD. Mid-range three-course meals for two follow a similar trend, costing about $35 USD in Manila versus $55 USD in Warsaw.

Warsaw boasts a highly integrated and efficient public transport system (trams, buses, and metro) with a monthly pass costing only about $28 USD. Manila’s public transit is more fragmented; while Jeepneys and the LRT are very cheap ($0.20–$0.50 per ride), they are often congested. Most expats in Manila rely on ride-hailing services like Grab, which can make transport more expensive than in Warsaw. Fuel costs are generally higher in Warsaw, but the city's walkability and superior cycling infrastructure often negate the need for a private vehicle.

A major outlier in this comparison is the cost of utilities. Electricity in Manila is among the most expensive in Asia, often costing $150–$200 USD per month for a standard apartment due to high air conditioning usage. In Warsaw, utilities (including heating) average around $200 USD, but the infrastructure is more modern. Gym memberships are comparable, ranging from $30 to $50 USD in both cities. Cinema tickets and entertainment are slightly cheaper in Manila, but Warsaw offers a wider array of free or low-cost cultural public events.

There is currently no direct flight route between Warsaw (WAW) and Manila (MNL). Travelers typically connect through major hubs in the Middle East or East Asia. Common routes include layovers in Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), or Istanbul (Turkish Airlines). The total travel time usually ranges from 16 to 22 hours depending on the duration of the layover. For those looking for the most budget-friendly options, flights with transfers in mainland China or Vietnam are often available.