Is Iloilo or Manila cheaper to live in?

Iloilo is 40% cheaper than Manila. The average monthly cost in Iloilo is $612, while Manila costs $1,021 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Manila offers faster internet at 85 Mbps. Iloilo is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Iloilo has a NomadIQ score of 7.2/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Iloilo and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $276/month in Iloilo and $560/month in Manila. Iloilo has 51% lower rent.

Is Iloilo or Manila safer?

Iloilo has a higher safety score of 6/10. Iloilo scores 6/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Iloilo or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Iloilo if budget is important ($612/month). Choose Iloilo for better safety. Manila is better for remote work with 85 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Iloilo vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Iloilo

Philippines

$612/mo7.2/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Iloilo

Philippines

$612/moNomadIQ 7.2/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Iloilo

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$612

$1,021

Iloilo

Rent (1BR)

$276

$560

Iloilo

Groceries

$219

$280

Iloilo

Transport

$35

$45

Iloilo

Healthcare

$55

$110

Iloilo

Safety Score

6/10

3.5/10

Iloilo

Internet Speed

70 Mbps

85 Mbps

Manila

NomadIQ Score

7.2/10

7.3/10

Manila

Overall Winner: Iloilo

Based on our comparison, Iloilo wins 6 out of 8 categories.Manila wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Iloilo

$612/mo

Best Internet

Manila

85 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Manila

7.3/10

Our Recommendation: Choose Iloilo if budget is your top priority, or Manila if you need the fastest internet for remote work.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Iloilo vs Manila

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

Cost of Living: Iloilo offers a more affordable lifestyle at $612/month compared to Manila's $1,021/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Manila provides faster connectivity at 85 Mbps compared to Iloilo's 70 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6/10, Iloilo 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

Iloilo is 40% cheaper than Manila.

• Iloilo rent: $276/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $284/mo

Safety Comparison

Iloilo has a higher safety score (6/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

6/10

Iloilo

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Manila offers faster internet at 85 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.

70 Mbps

Iloilo

85 Mbps

Manila

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Iloilo edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Iloilo: Best for budget-conscious expats

Manila: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Iloilo vs Manila

Iloilo

Manila

Iloilo

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Iloilo

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Iloilo vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Iloilo vs Manila