Is Jeddah or Manila cheaper to live in?

Manila is 8% cheaper than Jeddah. The average monthly cost in Manila is $1,021, while Jeddah costs $1,108 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Jeddah offers faster internet at 100 Mbps. Manila is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Jeddah has a NomadIQ score of 7.3/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Jeddah and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $626/month in Jeddah and $560/month in Manila. Manila has 10% lower rent.

Is Jeddah or Manila safer?

Jeddah has a higher safety score of 5/10. Jeddah scores 5/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Jeddah or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Manila if budget is important ($1,021/month). Choose Jeddah for better safety. Jeddah is better for remote work with 100 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Jeddah vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Jeddah

Saudi Arabia

$1,108/mo7.3/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Jeddah

Saudi Arabia

$1,108/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Jeddah

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,108

$1,021

Manila

Rent (1BR)

$626

$560

Manila

Groceries

$250

$280

Jeddah

Transport

$55

$45

Manila

Healthcare

$110

Tie

Safety Score

5/10

3.5/10

Jeddah

Internet Speed

100 Mbps

85 Mbps

Jeddah

NomadIQ Score

7.3/10

Tie

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Manila

$1,021/mo

Best Internet

Jeddah

100 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: Jeddah vs Manila

When comparing Jeddah 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 Jeddah's $1,108/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Jeddah leads with 100 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Manila offers 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5/10, Jeddah 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 8% cheaper than Jeddah.

• Jeddah rent: $626/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $66/mo

Safety Comparison

Jeddah has a higher safety score (5/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

5/10

Jeddah

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Jeddah offers faster internet at 100 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

100 Mbps

Jeddah

85 Mbps

Manila

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Jeddah: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Manila: Best for budget-conscious expats

Jeddah vs Manila

Jeddah

Manila

Jeddah

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Jeddah vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Jeddah vs Manila