Is Alicante or Manila cheaper to live in?

Manila is 32% cheaper than Alicante. The average monthly cost in Manila is $1,021, while Alicante costs $1,495 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Alicante or Manila?

For digital nomads, Alicante offers faster internet at 150 Mbps. Manila is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Alicante has a NomadIQ score of 7.1/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Alicante and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $998/month in Alicante and $560/month in Manila. Manila has 44% lower rent.

Is Alicante or Manila safer?

Alicante has a higher safety score of 6.3/10. Alicante scores 6.3/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Alicante or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Manila if budget is important ($1,021/month). Choose Alicante for better safety. Alicante is better for remote work with 150 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Alicante vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Alicante

Spain

$1,495/mo7.1/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Alicante

Spain

$1,495/moNomadIQ 7.1/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Alicante

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,495

$1,021

Manila

Rent (1BR)

$998

$560

Manila

Groceries

$283

$280

Manila

Transport

$94

$45

Manila

Healthcare

$90

$110

Alicante

Safety Score

6.3/10

3.5/10

Alicante

Internet Speed

150 Mbps

85 Mbps

Alicante

NomadIQ Score

7.1/10

7.3/10

Manila

Overall Winner: Manila

Based on our comparison, Manila wins 5 out of 8 categories.Alicante wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Alicante and Manila, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Manila

$1,021/mo

Best Internet

Alicante

150 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Manila

7.3/10

Our Recommendation: Manila is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Alicante vs Manila

When comparing Alicante and Manila for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Manila is the more budget-friendly option at $1,021/month versus Alicante's $1,495/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Alicante leads with 150 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Manila offers 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.3/10, Alicante provides a more secure environment than Manila (3.5/10).

Overall: Manila's NomadIQ score of 7.3/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Manila is 32% cheaper than Alicante.

• Alicante rent: $998/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $437/mo

Safety Comparison

Alicante has a higher safety score (6.3/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

6.3/10

Alicante

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Alicante offers faster internet at 150 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

150 Mbps

Alicante

85 Mbps

Manila

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Manila edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 5 of 8 comparison factors.

Alicante: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Manila: Best for budget-conscious expats

Alicante vs Manila

Alicante

Manila

Alicante

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Manila

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Alicante vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Alicante vs Manila