Is Almaty or Manila cheaper to live in?

Manila is 14% cheaper than Almaty. The average monthly cost in Manila is $1,021, while Almaty costs $1,186 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Almaty offers faster internet at 140 Mbps. Manila is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Almaty has a NomadIQ score of 7/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Almaty and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $747/month in Almaty and $560/month in Manila. Manila has 25% lower rent.

Is Almaty or Manila safer?

Almaty has a higher safety score of 4.7/10. Almaty scores 4.7/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Almaty or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Manila if budget is important ($1,021/month). Choose Almaty for better safety. Almaty is better for remote work with 140 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Almaty vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Almaty

Kazakhstan

$1,186/mo7/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Almaty

Kazakhstan

$1,186/moNomadIQ 7/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Almaty

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,186

$1,021

Manila

Rent (1BR)

$747

$560

Manila

Groceries

$300

$280

Manila

Transport

$35

$45

Almaty

Healthcare

$90

$110

Almaty

Safety Score

4.7/10

3.5/10

Almaty

Internet Speed

140 Mbps

85 Mbps

Almaty

NomadIQ Score

7/10

7.3/10

Manila

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Manila

$1,021/mo

Best Internet

Almaty

140 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: Almaty vs Manila

When comparing Almaty 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 Almaty's $1,186/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Almaty leads with 140 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Manila offers 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 4.7/10, Almaty 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 14% cheaper than Almaty.

• Almaty rent: $747/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $186/mo

Safety Comparison

Almaty has a higher safety score (4.7/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

4.7/10

Almaty

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Almaty offers faster internet at 140 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

140 Mbps

Almaty

85 Mbps

Manila

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.

Almaty: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Manila: Best for budget-conscious expats

Almaty vs Manila

Almaty

Manila

Almaty

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Almaty vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Almaty vs Manila