Manila vs Barcelona

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Manila is roughly 59% more affordable than Barcelona (index 16 vs 38, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Manila
More affordable overall
59% cheaper than Barcelona · Cost index: 16 vs 38

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

16Cost Index38
516Median Income /mo2,300
45Safety Index78
12Income Tax %37
109Internet (Mbps)165
280Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

ManilaCategoryBarcelona
$500/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
64% cheaper →
$1,400/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
21% cheaper →
$1.39/liter
$5/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
62% cheaper →
$13/meal
$12/month
Monthly Transit Pass
79% cheaper →
$58/month
$105/month
Utilities (Monthly)
13% cheaper →
$120/month
$50/visit
Doctor Visit
17% cheaper →
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Manila

Internet109 Mbps
Coworking$280/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability68/100

Barcelona

Internet165 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Manila cheaper than Barcelona?

Manila is cheaper than Barcelona. Manila has a cost of living index of 16/100 compared to 38/100 for Barcelona (New York = 100), making it roughly 59% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Manila than Barcelona?

Manila is approximately 59% cheaper than Barcelona based on cost index scores (16 vs 38, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Barcelona could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,235/month in Manila.

What is the rent comparison between Manila and Barcelona?

In Manila, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $500/month. In Barcelona, the equivalent is around $1,400/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Manila or Barcelona?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Manila offers 109 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$280/month. Barcelona offers 165 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Manila has a cost advantage of 59%.

What is the average income in Manila vs Barcelona?

The median net monthly salary in Manila is approximately $516 USD, compared to $2,300 USD in Barcelona.

Compare Manila with…

Popular head-to-heads — see exactly where Manila wins or loses.

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