Although a very anecdotal topic, there is value here to take away. This subject demonstrates the literally HUGE delta in cost of living options in the Philippines. If one wants to replicate their Western daily living by residing in a high rise condo in BGC or Makati, its clearly going to cost a lot more than someone who decides to rent a modest house in the hills of Valencia west of Dumaguete where the cost for nearly everything will be less. The bottom line: live more like a local if affordability is your thing - OR - be prepared to pay considerably more $$$ for modern living standards and conveniences.
@@petebngyn I was about to come and say the exact same thing. The proper context isn't provided when we compare places like BGC to less expensive areas of the Phillipines. It is the Manhattan of the Phillipines as far as costs goes. I however cannot realistically afford to live in a place like Manhattan....at least not the way I want with the luxuries etc. But I can realistically live that way in BGC with all the luxuries I want.
I like the cost of living videos because it gives me a point of reference that I otherwise wouldn't have. I can pull it apart myself and see what would be different for me based on location and family size. I also don't expect to get as good of a deal on rent as you did. I've watched 10 or 15 of these from all over the Philippines now and I think I can be very comfortable on a budget of $1500 USD per month. That leaves a lot left over for investing/saving.
Born and raised Pinoy...$1500 a month is a huge budget if you're single. You can live in a decent city in Visayas or Mindanao and enjoy a good (not lucrative) life on this budget.
I have 3 kids and our food budget including bath and cleaning supplies can go up to PHP10k or less every month. And that would be on a tight budget. It can go up to PHP15K including eat outs which don't happen every month. Thats approx $300
It is always good to get the picture of someone's budget and cost of living. Yeah, it would not apply to most people viewing this, but at least they would have an idea because you compared it with your US budget too. I bet they are happy to get some clue.
That's totally understandable for a family of 4 to have that much food costs. I spend about $100 a week on food in the US. About 15 years ago, I could get away with $70 a week. Inflation is out of control.
My budget with wife and two daughters is $2750/mo. I do have a $200/ month condo fee but fee is based on sq meters and my condo is 108 sq meters but condo is paid for. We have the tuition for my daughters. Car and pickup truck both paid for and new so no repairs for a few years. Also budgeting more for electricity because I want the A/C in bedrooms, living room, dining room and kitchen. Your budget is probably spot on for non city living with the rent being hard to find at that rate. We charge $400/month for our downtown condos.
I think a Lot of people watch COL vids because they have a fixed income. Seeing how people live and what it cost them in different areas can give them a reference on a budget they could afford there and what type of lifestyle they can get on SS pension military pension etcetera. I’d like to live and save, I don’t like big cities so Digos is nice enough if living a few kilometers outside city limits. Davao being close gives other opportunities for restaurants and shopping. So perfect for my taste and expectations. Fits my budget well at the same time. I can live on $1,200 to $1,800 easily enough and still save. If an occasion arises well $2,400 isn’t unreachable either. Not rich not poor by American standards but by Philippine standards I’d be doing ok 👌
Finally a cost of living video that seems more realistic especially in terms of the food and electric bill there…still cheaper than the US…and especially if you have multiple sources of income coming in each month.
So interesting! And yes, it is a personal account of your circumstances and way of life so it shouldn’t be a template for someone else. As a local, I am happy to see a balanced, respectful and informative opinion of how living in the Philippines is, from a foreigner’s perspective. Thank you and look forward to more of your videos!
No,I get it! To each their own. But it does give the viewer's a sense of what prices are there. When I watch such videos, I'm looking roughly at the rent, utilities,and food prices and what I have to spend and comparing different parts of the Philippines.
I like watching videos like this one. My wife is from the Philppines also and we help to support the extended family (mom dad sister 3 brothers and 2 kids). This gives me a real time cost of living on Mindanao so i can audit what I'm told from the family of costs. My cost will be different than your cost of living for sure. We own a home and a commercial building with 3 little store rentals. We will be adding more the commercial property soon in hopes to supplement cost of living and creating a safety net incase the U.S economy crashes we still have some money flowing in.
@@GUITARTIME2024 It depends on situations. My father-in-law was bed ridden and needed 24 hr. care special food diapers ext. so it be close to $500 USD but most the time it's around $200.00 a month. But it also depends on special occasions / health issues also will increase the money we send.
I'm enjoying your content. My wife of 18 years is from Malita, just an hour or so south of Digos City. We went back to visit family just before the pandemic in 2019, and plan on returning this winter if all goes well. I'm seriously considering early retirement in the Philippines, if all goes well. It would certainly be a huge change from my life here in north east USA, but I've always enjoyed my time there.
Wow I been malita before because I have friends there and classmates it's a beautiful place and my family live in Digos city and Davao city. Enjoy vacation soon with your family 👪
Thanks for letting me know. I have never been there at least that I know of. Yes living here is a big change from the NE in USA or really any where there. I can only say that I really enjoy it.
Malita davao occedintal is like a best place to live. Land near beach there is very cheap and now Malita is slowly up to beach tourist...I consider you to buy at lot in there.
Me and my family here on mindano, have a property on lease land and just had a large Nipa hut built and comfort room, so we are fully kitted out . My partner our three kids and two neices living here, I work in UK and come back every given chance.. Hopefull y when I get to retire I will get to stay for good!. I love it here, as much as mindano is always on the risk list I don't see any problems.. The cost of living on mindano very low so more bang for the buck
it's depends on your location if you're house is a mansion and lot of appliances. but if you're practical your expenses becoming low if you're not adjust about living in the Philippines you can survive here go to the wet market not a super market you can save your money
The cola videos are only for a rough estimate as prices vary per location and personal tastes. I figure a single man budget to be between 1200 and 1800 and nearby big cities 1600 to 2500 depending upon taste.
Back in 2010 my phone was $70 a month no contract required, in the Philippines even for 2022 it's 400 pesos monthly with unli text and call and some data, the savings are substantial, I have a maid which I can never afford in the US plus no stress here.
House: 14k per month (14k equity) (2 million house x 20 years to pay) Motorcycle gas: 600 per month (unleaded considering gas price) Food: 6k per month (4 person) Electricity: 2.5k-3.5k per month Water: 300 Life insurance: 1.5k per month Baby needs: 3.5k per month (depending on how we often use our child's stuff) Total: 29,400 per month/529.80 USD per month This is our budget for our family and this is sufficient for us in our everyday living. If you are looking to live here in the PH you can get by around a 1000 USD budget per month :)
Thanks again from NC (and soon to be in Davao City). You are correct, you just hvae to go there with a realistic budget. I expect to rent a 2BR condo for 25k furnished for a year, mainly to allow myself time to adjust to the lifestyle, and there are some savings when you live in a small condo on power, accessibility to public transport, or simply because you can walk to a lot of places. My goal is taking 2k to cover my health insurance, and all expenses for myself and my filipina, and have money left over, but have a good buffer, just in case. I think the guys trying to figure out how to live on 1000 SSI are going to have the biggest challenges, unless they can instantly start living like a local. Like you, I want some western treats (coffee, A/C) but will adapt on most things.
Representing General Santos City in less than three months. Appreciate the honesty in your video about the cost of living. You are 100% correct. There is no formula for what the cost of living would be for a couple (wife). We are humble, laid-back people, and we like it that way. Nice job. We will keep watching. :)
Well done, our cost of living are much the same. One thing I will disagree on is the budget videos are very helpful to many. People watch a few different channels with different lifestyles and areas and can get a good baseline on cost of living. Again , well done sir.
Budget videos for me are more about what's possible and the individual expenses. For example I can see electric is very expensive and not reliable. Comparing apples to apples PH is going to be much more expensive for me than in the US. But I live a very odd life here in the US only spending $600/mo. Plus I own my house and it has appreciated $2100/mo average over the past 15 years. I could keep my US house so it's a little hard to compare, but even $140/mo rent I would see as an increase (but not that much since property tax is $110/mo here in Phoenix).
One big area budget videos leave off is they just show base expenses only not your day to day spending. Someone that likes electronics will be in for a rude Awakening.
@@alexwolf8019 hmmm... interesting. I have a house in CDO as well.. uptown. If anyone of you will be landing or have landed in the uptown area, I know there's a row of townhouses near where my house is. :)
Cost s can be lots different for some people . In the US where I am I spend around $1500 for every thing per month . When I was in the Philippines we stayed at my brother in law s we would buy all the food for 12 to 20 family members and we spend $600 , Very little going out to eat we was there for 3 weeks time . 2019
Your video is so good explaining the pros and cons regarding expenses and the way you live. People will have an idea how much money they need living in Philippines. Of course they should have an extra money for emergency in case they get stuck or get sick and especially the first time in the country.
I always hear about how little one can live on, but not a lot about us retirees that may have a lot more (in the 4-5K range) but still want to live the simple life (not a luxury lifestyle). In my case, Retired military with VA benefits and social security. I also have a substantial amount in an annuity and emergency fund. What does one do with all the extra funds they have available? I'm a sucker for those in need and could easily see myself giving out money trying to help this family and that one. Hell, I don't need the money, but don't want an entire community relying on me either.
Love your channel, Mr. Dr. Lawyer man. ;-) This cost breakdown would kind of be mine aswell. It can of course be done cheaper, but.. I am however surprised how expensive electric is!
I was surprised by the electric as well, but it is still far less than I paid in the states, but more expensive than any other country I have ever lived in.
That's about right The rent is low But the electric bill is high $1500 amonth pretty good life style with a partner At $2000. You are living better probably going to eat alot That's my experience in a tourist town in Bohol panglao island 🏝️
Yes I eat out a lot because I am travelling around during the week. Nearby in Davao rent is much higher but nicer places than what I am seeing in the province. Never been to Bohol but planning on coming there in August or September, really looking forward to it!
You are so right on the fact that your expenses will not be the same as anyone else’s but it does give a good ballpark figure to work from. It’s obviously from your food budget you don’t eat a lot of local Philippines food because some families can live on 10% of your food budget. Rice is life 😂😂😂. I live in Anchorage and my housing costs are more than twice your stateside costs.
living in northern Luzon (Davila, Pasaquin, Ilocos Norte, philippines..mostly I only pay for food and power here as everything is paid for already. do not drive so no insurance for that and her family owns all vehicles..her family..doctor, nurse, school teacher, civil engineer so i really don't have to feel like I need to support them. She has been to America for 10 years, has enough points to qualify for her SS when she is old enough and has been able to bank her income to build a nest egg for our/her later years..she is 15 years younger then me but we get along beautifully....Here now taking care of her father in his older years but will be doing the 6 here/ 6 there routine for a few more years but plan on retirement visa later. most of our foods are grown here, raise pork, beef chicken ourselfs, buy fish from local fishermen..neighbors are great, willing to work as i need them, paying local costs for workers of 400 peso a day (57.11 peso to the US dollar) plus 2 break meals a day (soda/water and a simple meal).So I guess all in all, not very expensive to live here...
It really depends on where you are in the Philippines, but the cost of living is really good i will be alone so i guess its going to be a bit less. Internet is pretty much the same as i pay here in Canada, electricity yes if you have many rooms etc i plan on having a 1 bedroom condo but even then all of this is going to be a lot cheaper than in Canada.
Just looking at your US budget, you didn't mention health insurance which I understand to be a significant cost in America. I imagine there would be a significant disparity between the cost there vs in the Philippines.
Before moving to the Philippines 🇵🇭 fom the States, my wife and I will have our business ties in order such as: life and medical insurance intact here in the States and emergency funds included. As far residence, we feel that owning our property will best suit our needs as less hands ✋️ 🙌 involved in our day-to-day activities the better off our situations will be.
wow sounds interesting bro. now the expenses in philippines is like in the US because of the gasoline price thats why the products and foods are getting higher cost. 😅 sorry for my english. proud filipino here, i like your videos! 💖💖
Good stuff to think about. I'm the same as you on the food expenses, I will certainly buy the best food available. Your rent will be less than mine, I can't think that I will be that lucky to find a house for that price. I'm older than you, so I will need to have good Medical insurance as well as set aside monthly for an emergency package. I don't intend to be on a bike there so I will buy a car and have all those related expenses. I'm a biker and haven't been without a bike since I was a child, but there's a time to stop riding and I'm there. Great video, but I would need to add for travel, diving, movies (if there is a theater), bowling, billiards, and my Amateur radio station hobby. Great video. Looking forward to the next. 👏👏
@@garrylafferty100 in December just after the devastating Typhoon in the Philippines. My girlfriend's sister and her fiancee were hit by another vehicle and Emilou broke her back. They were on a motorcycle in bad road conditions. I paid all the bills, for the plates and screws in her back. The hospital, and rehabilitation. Now thankful that she can walk again and have a nearly normal life. Granted, this didn't scare me off bikes, but it scared my girlfriend. I want my Asawa to travel with me and enjoy our travels. I don't want her to be scared constantly. Used cars, insurance and dash cams are inexpensive. Peace of mind is priceless. Ride safe 👍
I only spent £324 ($385) in nearly 6 weeks in Thailand. It would have been maybe £270 if I'd been renting long term. I'd have saved 3,000 baht a month on rent. But then all I did was go to the gym, read, and eat Thai food! If you rely on travel insurance (rather than health insurance), live in a $100 or less a month apartment, use the fan rather than AC, have a rice cooker for 825 of your evening calories, and buy a gym membership for entertainment, it can be very, very, very cheap. You'll probably go mad, though!
I'm confused why you would not get a better place to live. 140 dollars cant get you much. 500 per month would still be cheap and much more comfortable for you and your family. The food is more than 5 times the rent just doesn't make sense.
One of the takeaways in most of these budget-centric videos and not always mentioned outside of all the normal costs rents, transportation, food, etc is medical costs, and if you want to get a bit more granular the specifics associated with insurance or self-pay. In a medical emergency, I've heard a few different vloggers mention you best have something in place or they practically hold you, hostage, in an effort to get paid.
I’d like to add one more thing: if one has a heart attack or any other medical emergency, and requires intervention, if money is not paid upfront, you will die on their gurney.
Definitely not worthless. But it’s obvious we need to be willing to get away from more expensive cities if we want to pay lowest rent. Good series, if you can, add more pics in future, like typical province apt, not everyone knows bedroom sizes are smaller, ph bathrooms, not all Americans know about squat toilets or what a bathroom with no tub or shower looks like etc
You showed that your house rental was $140 per month, and that the owner of the house was living in the U.S. How did you go about finding a person in the U.S. to rent from in the Philippines?
Did you sell everything in the US, or are you still maintaining your "Footprint" there as well? I ask as if I'm able to relocate abroad when I retire in a few years, I'll still have to maintain my house and such back here. Also, what about filing US Tax Return's while abroad?
I admire the simplicity of Philippine living. I’m perfectly fine living in a bamboo house. I only need air conditioning and books:) it won’t be long before I have a girlfriend. It’s never long.
I would just sign up for Phil Health, dental is very cheap as well as vision so no big issue there. The only big issue are major surgeries so if you can avoid those as well as any major health issues like high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and heart disease your good. I know that is too much to stay clear of. LOL
$200/month for electricity - somebody must be illegally tapping your line! And $800/month on food - are you feeding 5 families on that? The cost of living in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island where we live (in northern Cebu) is higher than in most cities in Mindanao. Food is way cheaper in where you are at than here. We live very comfortably with a budget anywhere between $300-$400/month (covering food,electricity, phone and internet, fuel for our jeep, our pets consisting of dogs and birds and occasional dine outs).
My biggest cost are food and housing. Food is around $800 for 4 peps and mortgage around $1,000 USA dollars a month, I bought a new house, I live 30 min from Manila so I have access to local and city food markets. You beat me big time on rent, lol. What internet service or carrier do you use currently?
50 watts running 12hrs = 600watts x 30 days = 18k watts in my area. 1kwh =9 pesos 9x18 = 162 =$3.25 might be nothing to you. but an additional expense. is still expense to some.
Food, 300. Rent, built my house. $0. Electricity $60, Water. $7. Gasoline $20. Motorcycle. My electric is high because of the fan. I could cut my food way down. I feed my wife and 2 kids. School and kids stuff $50? $2 a year land taxes.
Why you didn’t put a house in the Philippines? Much better the if you rent a house, bcuz if you rent a house is very expensive the if your own a house. There more housing in the Philippines like you buy a condo unit. Rent a own house after you’re finished to pay a rent an own house.
My Filipina pays 200 $ rent 2 bedroom in Digos city Filipino can live off farm virtual no money maybe raise a pig or sale farm products. I would not try to live there for less than 1000 USD with a wife and child unless no rent. I cant live like a Filipino lol or live off land
True but not compared to the USA especially if you take into account the dollar strengthening abroad compared to inflation domestically in the states. So for folks earning in Dollars it is a wonderful time to be almost anywhere but the USA, cannot speak for other countries like anywhere in Europe it is a disaster to be abroad right now
Although a very anecdotal topic, there is value here to take away. This subject demonstrates the literally HUGE delta in cost of living options in the Philippines. If one wants to replicate their Western daily living by residing in a high rise condo in BGC or Makati, its clearly going to cost a lot more than someone who decides to rent a modest house in the hills of Valencia west of Dumaguete where the cost for nearly everything will be less. The bottom line: live more like a local if affordability is your thing - OR - be prepared to pay considerably more $$$ for modern living standards and conveniences.
A good comparison for BGC would be living in Manhattan, average cost per sqm in Manhattan is like 3 times more expensive than BGC apartments.
I think you stated it exactly right
@@petebngyn I was about to come and say the exact same thing. The proper context isn't provided when we compare places like BGC to less expensive areas of the Phillipines. It is the Manhattan of the Phillipines as far as costs goes. I however cannot realistically afford to live in a place like Manhattan....at least not the way I want with the luxuries etc. But I can realistically live that way in BGC with all the luxuries I want.
I like the cost of living videos because it gives me a point of reference that I otherwise wouldn't have. I can pull it apart myself and see what would be different for me based on location and family size. I also don't expect to get as good of a deal on rent as you did.
I've watched 10 or 15 of these from all over the Philippines now and I think I can be very comfortable on a budget of $1500 USD per month. That leaves a lot left over for investing/saving.
Born and raised Pinoy...$1500 a month is a huge budget if you're single. You can live in a decent city in Visayas or Mindanao and enjoy a good (not lucrative) life on this budget.
I have 3 kids and our food budget including bath and cleaning supplies can go up to PHP10k or less every month. And that would be on a tight budget. It can go up to PHP15K including eat outs which don't happen every month. Thats approx $300
It is always good to get the picture of someone's budget and cost of living. Yeah, it would not apply to most people viewing this, but at least they would have an idea because you compared it with your US budget too. I bet they are happy to get some clue.
That's totally understandable for a family of 4 to have that much food costs. I spend about $100 a week on food in the US. About 15 years ago, I could get away with $70 a week. Inflation is out of control.
My budget with wife and two daughters is $2750/mo. I do have a $200/ month condo fee but fee is based on sq meters and my condo is 108 sq meters but condo is paid for. We have the tuition for my daughters. Car and pickup truck both paid for and new so no repairs for a few years. Also budgeting more for electricity because I want the A/C in bedrooms, living room, dining room and kitchen. Your budget is probably spot on for non city living with the rent being hard to find at that rate. We charge $400/month for our downtown condos.
I think a Lot of people watch COL vids because they have a fixed income. Seeing how people live and what it cost them in different areas can give them a reference on a budget they could afford there and what type of lifestyle they can get on SS pension military pension etcetera.
I’d like to live and save, I don’t like big cities so Digos is nice enough if living a few kilometers outside city limits. Davao being close gives other opportunities for restaurants and shopping. So perfect for my taste and expectations. Fits my budget well at the same time. I can live on $1,200 to $1,800 easily enough and still save. If an occasion arises well $2,400 isn’t unreachable either. Not rich not poor by American standards but by Philippine standards I’d be doing ok 👌
Finally a cost of living video that seems more realistic especially in terms of the food and electric bill there…still cheaper than the US…and especially if you have multiple sources of income coming in each month.
So interesting! And yes, it is a personal account of your circumstances and way of life so it shouldn’t be a template for someone else. As a local, I am happy to see a balanced, respectful and informative opinion of how living in the Philippines is, from a foreigner’s perspective. Thank you and look forward to more of your videos!
No,I get it! To each their own. But it does give the viewer's a sense of what prices are there. When I watch such videos, I'm looking roughly at the rent, utilities,and food prices and what I have to spend and comparing different parts of the Philippines.
I like watching videos like this one. My wife is from the Philppines also and we help to support the extended family (mom dad sister 3 brothers and 2 kids). This gives me a real time cost of living on Mindanao so i can audit what I'm told from the family of costs. My cost will be different than your cost of living for sure. We own a home and a commercial building with 3 little store rentals. We will be adding more the commercial property soon in hopes to supplement cost of living and creating a safety net incase the U.S economy crashes we still have some money flowing in.
How much are you giving monthly?
@@GUITARTIME2024 It depends on situations. My father-in-law was bed ridden and needed 24 hr. care special food diapers ext. so it be close to $500 USD but most the time it's around $200.00 a month. But it also depends on special occasions / health issues also will increase the money we send.
thank you! do your own research ! better words have never ben spoken. x NAVY see you soon
I'm enjoying your content. My wife of 18 years is from Malita, just an hour or so south of Digos City. We went back to visit family just before the pandemic in 2019, and plan on returning this winter if all goes well. I'm seriously considering early retirement in the Philippines, if all goes well. It would certainly be a huge change from my life here in north east USA, but I've always enjoyed my time there.
Wow I been malita before because I have friends there and classmates it's a beautiful place and my family live in Digos city and Davao city. Enjoy vacation soon with your family 👪
Thanks for letting me know. I have never been there at least that I know of. Yes living here is a big change from the NE in USA or really any where there. I can only say that I really enjoy it.
Malita davao occedintal is like a best place to live. Land near beach there is very cheap and now Malita is slowly up to beach tourist...I consider you to buy at lot in there.
Me and my family here on mindano, have a property on lease land and just had a large Nipa hut built and comfort room, so we are fully kitted out .
My partner our three kids and two neices living here, I work in UK and come back every given chance..
Hopefull y when I get to retire I will get to stay for good!.
I love it here, as much as mindano is always on the risk list I don't see any problems..
The cost of living on mindano very low so more bang for the buck
Very well said. Practice healthy style of living here in the Philippines... To avoid hospital expenses. Eat well to live well.🤭🤭🤭
Welcome to our country. Enjoy your stay here.
it's depends on your location if you're house is a mansion and lot of appliances. but if you're practical your expenses becoming low if you're not adjust about living in the Philippines you can survive here go to the wet market not a super market you can save your money
Thanks for the video. Go Vols!
Haha Anchor Down!
The cola videos are only for a rough estimate as prices vary per location and personal tastes. I figure a single man budget to be between 1200 and 1800 and nearby big cities 1600 to 2500 depending upon taste.
Back in 2010 my phone was $70 a month no contract required, in the Philippines even for 2022 it's 400 pesos monthly with unli text and call and some data, the savings are substantial, I have a maid which I can never afford in the US plus no stress here.
Forgot to talk about maids, but that is very true about being so affordable here if you earn in western dollars
House: 14k per month (14k equity) (2 million house x 20 years to pay)
Motorcycle gas: 600 per month (unleaded considering gas price)
Food: 6k per month (4 person)
Electricity: 2.5k-3.5k per month
Water: 300
Life insurance: 1.5k per month
Baby needs: 3.5k per month (depending on how we often use our child's stuff)
Total: 29,400 per month/529.80 USD per month
This is our budget for our family and this is sufficient for us in our everyday living. If you are looking to live here in the PH you can get by around a 1000 USD budget per month :)
I liked this 👍 ohh my . 🇰🇼🇵🇭 watching here
Thanks again from NC (and soon to be in Davao City). You are correct, you just hvae to go there with a realistic budget. I expect to rent a 2BR condo for 25k furnished for a year, mainly to allow myself time to adjust to the lifestyle, and there are some savings when you live in a small condo on power, accessibility to public transport, or simply because you can walk to a lot of places. My goal is taking 2k to cover my health insurance, and all expenses for myself and my filipina, and have money left over, but have a good buffer, just in case. I think the guys trying to figure out how to live on 1000 SSI are going to have the biggest challenges, unless they can instantly start living like a local. Like you, I want some western treats (coffee, A/C) but will adapt on most things.
Representing General Santos City in less than three months. Appreciate the honesty in your video about the cost of living. You are 100% correct. There is no formula for what the cost of living would be for a couple (wife). We are humble, laid-back people, and we like it that way. Nice job. We will keep watching. :)
Well done, our cost of living are much the same.
One thing I will disagree on is the budget videos are very helpful to many.
People watch a few different channels with different lifestyles and areas and can get a good baseline on cost of living.
Again , well done sir.
Budget videos for me are more about what's possible and the individual expenses. For example I can see electric is very expensive and not reliable. Comparing apples to apples PH is going to be much more expensive for me than in the US. But I live a very odd life here in the US only spending $600/mo. Plus I own my house and it has appreciated $2100/mo average over the past 15 years. I could keep my US house so it's a little hard to compare, but even $140/mo rent I would see as an increase (but not that much since property tax is $110/mo here in Phoenix).
Of course you could budget down, but since you are still working and have money, you don't have to, and why would you! Enjoy life and good luck!
One big area budget videos leave off is they just show base expenses only not your day to day spending. Someone that likes electronics will be in for a rude Awakening.
Great info sir! I will definitely reach out when I get to CDO in the next month or two. Appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experiences!
@@alexwolf8019 hmmm... interesting. I have a house in CDO as well.. uptown. If anyone of you will be landing or have landed in the uptown area, I know there's a row of townhouses near where my house is. :)
@@alexwolf8019 How do you like it there sir?
Please do!
@@divephilippinesatibapa8403 Hm to rent?
@@thecatpi4150 yes I believe all those expats living in the row of townhouses near my house are all renting.
Cost s can be lots different for some people . In the US where I am I spend around $1500 for every thing per month . When I was in the Philippines we stayed at my brother in law s we would buy all the food for 12 to 20 family members and we spend $600 , Very little going out to eat we was there for 3 weeks time . 2019
Hey Dr Laway I’m ur new subscribers I just found your channel, Very interesting love 💕 ur different content 👍👍👍👌✌️🙌
Thanks for subbing! 🙂
I believe the electricity is fueled by air conditioning units...
Your video is so good explaining the pros and cons regarding expenses and the way you live. People will have an idea how much money they need living in Philippines. Of course they should have an extra money for emergency in case they get stuck or get sick and especially the first time in the country.
If you stay in Mindanao Island is more te cheaper than living in Makati , Manila .
I always hear about how little one can live on, but not a lot about us retirees that may have a lot more (in the 4-5K range) but still want to live the simple life (not a luxury lifestyle). In my case, Retired military with VA benefits and social security. I also have a substantial amount in an annuity and emergency fund. What does one do with all the extra funds they have available? I'm a sucker for those in need and could easily see myself giving out money trying to help this family and that one. Hell, I don't need the money, but don't want an entire community relying on me either.
What about medical in case you get sick. Do they have good doctors and hospitals?
Love your channel, Mr. Dr. Lawyer man. ;-) This cost breakdown would kind of be mine aswell. It can of course be done cheaper, but.. I am however surprised how expensive electric is!
I was surprised by the electric as well, but it is still far less than I paid in the states, but more expensive than any other country I have ever lived in.
That's about right
The rent is low
But the electric bill is high
$1500 amonth pretty good life style with a partner
At $2000. You are living better probably going to eat alot
That's my experience in a tourist town in Bohol panglao island 🏝️
Yes I eat out a lot because I am travelling around during the week. Nearby in Davao rent is much higher but nicer places than what I am seeing in the province. Never been to Bohol but planning on coming there in August or September, really looking forward to it!
You are so right on the fact that your expenses will not be the same as anyone else’s but it does give a good ballpark figure to work from. It’s obviously from your food budget you don’t eat a lot of local Philippines food because some families can live on 10% of your food budget. Rice is life 😂😂😂. I live in Anchorage and my housing costs are more than twice your stateside costs.
Transportation should also include the cost of the scooter and its insurance...maybe amortized over 12 months.
If you have businesses abroad and you spend your income here in pH and live here, you'll have a better lifestyle.
Im from cavite.
Like your vids. Why aren't you showing us your lovely family? Are they camera shy?
Is it possible to set up a solar system in your Home
*How much did you say for health insurance?*
Outstanding series. Really enjoyed part 1&2.
Awesome, thank you!
my budget to my family 12000 a month , for me 3k a month, and I'm still alive 😆
oh my...
living in northern Luzon (Davila, Pasaquin, Ilocos Norte, philippines..mostly I only pay for food and power here as everything is paid for already. do not drive so no insurance for that and her family owns all vehicles..her family..doctor, nurse, school teacher, civil engineer so i really don't have to feel like I need to support them. She has been to America for 10 years, has enough points to qualify for her SS when she is old enough and has been able to bank her income to build a nest egg for our/her later years..she is 15 years younger then me but we get along beautifully....Here now taking care of her father in his older years but will be doing the 6 here/ 6 there routine for a few more years but plan on retirement visa later. most of our foods are grown here, raise pork, beef chicken ourselfs, buy fish from local fishermen..neighbors are great, willing to work as i need them, paying local costs for workers of 400 peso a day (57.11 peso to the US dollar) plus 2 break meals a day (soda/water and a simple meal).So I guess all in all, not very expensive to live here...
It really depends on where you are in the Philippines, but the cost of living is really good i will be alone so i guess its going to be a bit less. Internet is pretty much the same as i pay here in Canada, electricity yes if you have many rooms etc i plan on having a 1 bedroom condo but even then all of this is going to be a lot cheaper than in Canada.
If you are single with no kids, your savings are even better for sure.
visa fees plus, entertainment not mentioned or medical expenses...great video!!
Wow! You sure spend a lot on food! That's the highest food total I've seen from all the vloggers in the PH 🤔
TimK was about same...food in the Philippines can be same as US if you eat more western foods.
I traveled a lot with $0.00. You can do it on any budget. The only question is how much can you sacrifice?
Just looking at your US budget, you didn't mention health insurance which I understand to be a significant cost in America. I imagine there would be a significant disparity between the cost there vs in the Philippines.
Before moving to the Philippines 🇵🇭 fom the States, my wife and I will have our business ties in order such as: life and medical insurance intact here in the States and emergency funds included.
As far residence, we feel that owning our property will best suit our needs as less hands ✋️ 🙌 involved in our day-to-day activities the better off our situations will be.
Why pay rent? Rent for 6 months or a year. Once you know you are happy where you are. BUY CAREFULLY in the secondary market - Not New!
wow sounds interesting bro. now the expenses in philippines is like in the US because of the gasoline price thats why the products and foods are getting higher cost. 😅 sorry for my english. proud filipino here, i like your videos! 💖💖
800 on food is high, 200 is quite lavish already
Is southern Philippines safe? I always thought it was dangerous for Westerners? Is everywhere safe?
Good stuff to think about. I'm the same as you on the food expenses, I will certainly buy the best food available. Your rent will be less than mine, I can't think that I will be that lucky to find a house for that price. I'm older than you, so I will need to have good Medical insurance as well as set aside monthly for an emergency package. I don't intend to be on a bike there so I will buy a car and have all those related expenses. I'm a biker and haven't been without a bike since I was a child, but there's a time to stop riding and I'm there. Great video, but I would need to add for travel, diving, movies (if there is a theater), bowling, billiards, and my Amateur radio station hobby. Great video. Looking forward to the next. 👏👏
My neighbor a Harley man went to 3 wheels instead of stop riding he 74
@@garrylafferty100 in December just after the devastating Typhoon in the Philippines. My girlfriend's sister and her fiancee were hit by another vehicle and Emilou broke her back. They were on a motorcycle in bad road conditions. I paid all the bills, for the plates and screws in her back. The hospital, and rehabilitation. Now thankful that she can walk again and have a nearly normal life. Granted, this didn't scare me off bikes, but it scared my girlfriend. I want my Asawa to travel with me and enjoy our travels. I don't want her to be scared constantly. Used cars, insurance and dash cams are inexpensive. Peace of mind is priceless. Ride safe 👍
@@Roadglide59 Yes used cars are much available here and less running costs as shop repairs are very low costs.
@@trosenvinge it's going to be fun learning everything. Certainly there will be challenges too.
I only spent £324 ($385) in nearly 6 weeks in Thailand. It would have been maybe £270 if I'd been renting long term. I'd have saved 3,000 baht a month on rent. But then all I did was go to the gym, read, and eat Thai food! If you rely on travel insurance (rather than health insurance), live in a $100 or less a month apartment, use the fan rather than AC, have a rice cooker for 825 of your evening calories, and buy a gym membership for entertainment, it can be very, very, very cheap. You'll probably go mad, though!
Where are you located? I am moving to Cagayan de Oro in June 2023.
I'm confused why you would not get a better place to live. 140 dollars cant get you much. 500 per month would still be cheap and much more comfortable for you and your family. The food is more than 5 times the rent just doesn't make sense.
Hey Doctor, talk about the "Cano" tax, go ahead.
Depends on the Province. The farther south you go and the further away from tourist areas the less or non existent the tax
One of the takeaways in most of these budget-centric videos and not always mentioned outside of all the normal costs rents, transportation, food, etc is medical costs, and if you want to get a bit more granular the specifics associated with insurance or self-pay. In a medical emergency, I've heard a few different vloggers mention you best have something in place or they practically hold you, hostage, in an effort to get paid.
I’d like to add one more thing: if one has a heart attack or any other medical emergency, and requires intervention, if money is not paid upfront, you will die on their gurney.
You can save your money if you living in the province than a city
Definitely not worthless. But it’s obvious we need to be willing to get away from more expensive cities if we want to pay lowest rent. Good series, if you can, add more pics in future, like typical province apt, not everyone knows bedroom sizes are smaller, ph bathrooms, not all Americans know about squat toilets or what a bathroom with no tub or shower looks like etc
Your budget is a high standard already in the Philippines
Monthly cost of your electricity and food is quite huge.
You showed that your house rental was $140 per month, and that the owner of the house was living in the U.S. How did you go about finding a person in the U.S. to rent from in the Philippines?
try expat sites.
Did you sell everything in the US, or are you still maintaining your "Footprint" there as well? I ask as if I'm able to relocate abroad when I retire in a few years, I'll still have to maintain my house and such back here. Also, what about filing US Tax Return's while abroad?
I sold everything. I file US taxes electronically
@@DrLawaytravels Very good. So you went all in then. Very informative videos my friend!
I admire the simplicity of Philippine living. I’m perfectly fine living in a bamboo house. I only need air conditioning and books:) it won’t be long before I have a girlfriend. It’s never long.
Even with your food bill your under$1300 a month must be cheap In Davao province
Hi new subscriber good luck
Thanks for subbing! 🙂
Love the rent ♥
Electric is more than rent WOW
Does Dr. Laway or another Philippines RUclipsr have recommendations videos on jobs that foreigners can get long or short term?
What health insurance do you have in the Philippines? How about dental and vision insurance? Thank you.
I would just sign up for Phil Health, dental is very cheap as well as vision so no big issue there. The only big issue are major surgeries so if you can avoid those as well as any major health issues like high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and heart disease your good. I know that is too much to stay clear of. LOL
Free health insurance? I don't see cost of health insurance.
Instead of just you as couple in states, are you now supporting not only her but parents an extended family?
$200/month for electricity - somebody must be illegally tapping your line! And $800/month on food - are you feeding 5 families on that? The cost of living in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island where we live (in northern Cebu) is higher than in most cities in Mindanao. Food is way cheaper in where you are at than here. We live very comfortably with a budget anywhere between $300-$400/month (covering food,electricity, phone and internet, fuel for our jeep, our pets consisting of dogs and birds and occasional dine outs).
I reckon he's got the Navy Seals living with him.😅🤣😂🤡😄
800 for food......how many people ?
Where abouts are you living on Mindanao?
Who do you get your Internet from in Philippines . I would like to get it at my family s house next time I am there .
probably a smart rocket sim. unlimited 5g data/month... 600pesos=$12
Food 800 month a bit high
My biggest cost are food and housing. Food is around $800 for 4 peps and mortgage around $1,000 USA dollars a month, I bought a new house, I live 30 min from Manila so I have access to local and city food markets. You beat me big time on rent, lol. What internet service or carrier do you use currently?
well.. he is renting.. and you're "renting to own"
@@michaeljakeusman Sorry, not renting to own, I bought the house with 50% down and mortgage of 11 yrs on the balance. Filipino citizen.
All lawyers are liars
I am a lawyer my self , So I tell you he is full of shit
How many people do you feed
What about getting permanent citizenship in the Philippines
I do find mindanao cheaper to live
Anywhere from 1000 to 2000
It cost a whole lot more than that to live in the United States you're spending roughly $120 a week just on gas for one tank
Yes tons of places you can liver better than the USA, and I was living in one of the cheapest areas of the USA when I was there.
I assume in the USA you were still working once retired in the phillipines you only have a pension or limited income just something to think about
$800 for food? Dang!
Your Philippines cost of living as a pilipino is for rich pilipino. Ithink its a total of 100k peso. A month.
4:40 Fans are 50 watts maximum. They cost nothing.
50 watts running 12hrs = 600watts x 30 days = 18k watts
in my area. 1kwh =9 pesos
9x18 = 162
=$3.25
might be nothing to you. but an additional expense. is still expense to some.
Wow, I spend much less. Read comments.
Food, 300. Rent, built my house. $0.
Electricity $60, Water. $7. Gasoline $20. Motorcycle. My electric is high because of the fan.
I could cut my food way down. I feed my wife and 2 kids.
School and kids stuff $50?
$2 a year land taxes.
Why you didn’t put a house in the Philippines? Much better the if you rent a house, bcuz if you rent a house is very expensive the if your own a house. There more housing in the Philippines like you buy a condo unit. Rent a own house after you’re finished to pay a rent an own house.
800 $ for food. How many people, 20?
My Filipina pays 200 $ rent 2 bedroom in Digos city Filipino can live off farm virtual no money maybe raise a pig or sale farm products. I would not try to live there for less than 1000 USD with a wife and child unless no rent. I cant live like a Filipino lol or live off land
My family live in Digos city i had so much fun when I was there 2019
@@jozunusa3276 ya Iove Digos City Don Marcelino 2 hours south of Digos
Wow rent is dirt cheap
Do you pay taxes cuz your not Philippines residents
Health care / Insurance……?????
The cost of living their now is getting higher
True but not compared to the USA especially if you take into account the dollar strengthening abroad compared to inflation domestically in the states. So for folks earning in Dollars it is a wonderful time to be almost anywhere but the USA, cannot speak for other countries like anywhere in Europe it is a disaster to be abroad right now