Is Bali or Manila cheaper to live in?

Manila is 36% cheaper than Bali. The average monthly cost in Manila is $1,021, while Bali costs $1,585 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Bali offers faster internet at 200 Mbps. Manila is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Bali has a NomadIQ score of 7.3/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Bali and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,084/month in Bali and $560/month in Manila. Manila has 48% lower rent.

Is Bali or Manila safer?

Bali has a higher safety score of 4.9/10. Bali scores 4.9/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Bali or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Manila if budget is important ($1,021/month). Choose Bali for better safety. Bali is better for remote work with 200 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Bali vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Bali

Indonesia

$1,585/mo7.3/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Bali

Indonesia

$1,585/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Bali

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,585

$1,021

Manila

Rent (1BR)

$1,084

$560

Manila

Groceries

$300

$280

Manila

Transport

$60

$45

Manila

Healthcare

$120

$110

Manila

Safety Score

4.9/10

3.5/10

Bali

Internet Speed

200 Mbps

85 Mbps

Bali

NomadIQ Score

7.3/10

Tie

Overall Winner: Manila

Based on our comparison, Manila wins 5 out of 8 categories.Bali wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Manila

$1,021/mo

Best Internet

Bali

200 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: Bali vs Manila

When comparing Bali 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 Bali's $1,585/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Bali leads with 200 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Manila offers 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 4.9/10, Bali provides a more secure environment than Manila (3.5/10).

Overall: Both cities score similarly on our NomadIQ scale at 7.3/10.

Cost of Living Comparison

Manila is 36% cheaper than Bali.

• Bali rent: $1,084/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $523/mo

Safety Comparison

Bali has a higher safety score (4.9/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

4.9/10

Bali

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bali offers faster internet at 200 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

200 Mbps

Bali

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.

Bali: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Manila: Best for budget-conscious expats

Bali vs Manila

Bali

Manila

Bali

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Manila

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bali vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Bali vs Manila